2021 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

In the world of midsize SUVs, two models stood out: the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe and the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder, each offering unique design philosophies and interior experiences. The Santa Fe, for instance, offered a surprisingly upscale feel for its price range. Prospective buyers often found themselves baffled, wondering how Hyundai managed to pack so much quality into a vehicle that didn't break the bank. The Santa Fe featured two new gasoline engines and a gas-electric hybrid powertrain, with prices ranging from $26,850 to $39,950 MSRP. All-wheel drive (AWD) came standard in hybrid models and was optional for gasoline models at an additional $1,700.

In the Hyundai Santa Fe lineup, new wheel designs and a redesigned front end gave the SUV a refreshing look. The new running lights, grille, and bumper added a modern touch, though some might argue that the exterior remained an acquired taste due to its "parametric dynamics" design cues. Inside, the Santa Fe elevated its cabin with new colors, patterns, and textures, moving it noticeably upmarket. A unique bridge-style center console provided extra storage, while a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel added a layer of sophistication. The Calligraphy trim, in particular, boasted high-quality materials like premium Nappa leather and a panoramic glass sunroof, providing an air of understated luxury.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder, meanwhile, adopted a markedly different design ethos. Borrowing elements from Nissan’s lineup, the Pathfinder featured a new take on the signature V-motion grille, aligning it with models like the Rogue and Armada. With its LED headlights and slim daytime running lights, the exterior looked robust and assertive. Nissan offered 14 paint jobs and color combinations, including a striking black roof that contributed to its muscular aesthetic. The redesigned Pathfinder was slightly wider and higher than its predecessor, adding to its newfound ruggedness.

Nissan sought to project the Pathfinder as more capable and rugged, a mission that seemed to work. Inside, the Pathfinder featured semi-aniline leather-appointed seats in higher trims, with eight-passenger seating standard on most models. The Pathfinder’s SL and Platinum grades came with heated and ventilated front seats, enhancing its premium feel. The Pathfinder Platinum trim specifically exuded an upscale ambiance, comparable to rivals like the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer.

Three new powertrains were introduced for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe. The base SE and SEL trims featured a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Santa Fe Hybrids combined a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric drive motor, offering a robust 226 horsepower. Further, the top-tier Limited and Calligraphy trims were equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating an impressive 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed wet-plate dual-clutch transmission that provided rapid and precise gear shifts. AWD variants offered a fuel economy of 24 mpg in combined driving. The improved braking system, added structural rigidity, and enhanced body control made the 2021 Santa Fe drive significantly better than its predecessors.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-liter V6 engine, offering 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque. Despite no hybrid or electric options, the conventional engine still impressed many. Nissan paired this powerhouse with a new nine-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, which replaced the previous generation's CVT. This new transmission provided smooth gear transitions and contributed to the overall driving comfort.

Fuel economy for the Pathfinder varied slightly depending on the drivetrain. Front-wheel-drive (FWD) models offered 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while all-wheel-drive (AWD) models provided 23 mpg combined. Importantly, the Pathfinder boasted a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds, with all necessary towing technology to ensure stability. The Pathfinder’s suspension system absorbed road imperfections efficiently, and the tight turning radius made city driving and parking less of a hassle.

Interior space and utility were pivotal considerations for both vehicles. The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered abundant comfort but did not feature a third-row seat, which some families might find limiting. However, the Santa Fe stood out for its spaciousness and premium materials. Dual-zone automatic climate control was standard, with higher trims offering stain-resistant fabrics and premium leather upholstery. The luxurious Calligraphy trim included quilted Nappa leather and a suede-like headliner, elevating the cabin experience to near-luxury levels.

The Santa Fe was designed for convenience; all trims came with a plethora of adjustments for optimal driver comfort, including heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats on higher trims. The rear bench seat slid fore and aft to offer additional cargo space when needed. Speaking of cargo, the Santa Fe provided 36.4 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, expanding to 72.1 cubic feet when the seats were folded down.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder, on the other hand, emphasized flexibility and space, perfect for family use. The interior was designed to be both quiet and accommodating. Improved insulation and acoustic laminated glass contributed to a quieter ride. The innovative EZ Flex Latch and Glide second-row seat technology provided easy access to the third row, even with a child seat installed. Additionally, the removable second-row center console enhanced versatility, allowing for various seating configurations.

Cargo capacity in the Pathfinder was generous. With all seats in place, it offered 16.6 cubic feet of storage, expanding to 45.0 cubic feet with the third row folded. With both the second and third rows down, total cargo space reached an impressive 80.5 cubic feet. Moreover, thoughtful touches such as flush rear cargo space sides and under-floor storage added practical benefits.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy was packed with cutting-edge technology. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 8.5-inch color head-up display (HUD), and surround-view camera system were among the most notable features. The basic 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system came with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the 10.25-inch screen included wired versions and enhanced voice-recognition technology. An available 12-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system offered an exceptional audio experience.

Hyundai’s Blue Link connected services were standard for three years and included various features like automatic emergency assistance, remote engine start, and climate control. The Digital Key allowed owners to unlock and drive the SUV using an Android smartphone. Remote Smart Parking Assist enabled the vehicle to autonomously park in tight spaces, which was a handy, if not necessarily essential, feature.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder offered an equally compelling suite of technology but aimed for user-friendliness. The standard features list included a six-speaker audio system, an 8-inch touchscreen, Siri Eyes Free, Google Assistant Voice Recognition, and multiple USB ports. Higher trims added a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument panel, a head-up display, and a 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system. The top trims also featured a 9-inch infotainment screen, wireless charging pad, and door-to-door connected navigation.

NissanConnect Services offered various connectivity options, including Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay. Both vehicles showed a strong commitment to ensuring a technologically enriched driving experience, with each catering to slightly different tastes in interface complexity and functionality.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Key among these were forward-collision warning with pedestrian, cyclist, and junction turning assistance, Safe Exit Assist, and an ultrasonic rear-occupant alert system. Blind-Spot View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist further elevated the safety package. The SUV earned the IIHS "Top Safety Pick" rating when equipped with LED projector headlights.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder also boasted a robust safety suite, standard across all trims. Nissan Safety Shield 360 included automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, high-beam assist, and rear automatic braking. Additionally, a driver alertness monitor, rear door alert, and forward-collision warning were standard. While crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were pending, the sheer number of standard safety features provided peace of mind.