2023 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2023 Genesis GV80

Every car shopper out there has a hierarchy of needs. They put some needs above other needs. Whether you are looking for the best fuel economy, the most cargo space, or the newest tech and safety features, certain vehicles excel in some areas or fall behind in others. The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder does not stand out courtesy of any one particular characteristic, but much like the people shopping for it, the Pathfinder is a combination of attributes in one vehicle.

For the 2023 model year, Nissan has introduced the Rock Creek edition. It’s a more rugged version of the Pathfinder. That’s a bit ironic because, like many entrants in this family-hauling segment, the Pathfinder started out decades ago as tough, truck-based SUVs. So while the Pathfinder has evolved into a more comfortable vehicle, the Rock Creek appears to be an attempt to capture the spirit of the early Nissan SUVs. So, how does the Pathfinder stack up within the popular and hotly contested midsize SUV segment? And does the Rock Creek warrant attention as an off-road vehicle?

We first got an idea of the GV80 in 2017 at the New York Auto Show when the company debuted a concept. Fast forward to 2021 when we saw the first production model and we knew it would be a hit. Over the past two years, our admiration has only grown. Available in Canada with Advanced or Prestige packages, the GV80 is a midsize luxury SUV with plenty of features, offering stellar value for those who recognize a good deal when they see it.

Verdict: With great styling inside and out, plus a healthy choice of potent powertrains, the Genesis GV80 is an attractive and capable option in the midsize luxury SUV segment. Its technology can require a bit of a learning curve, but there are few true faults with this vehicle.