2021 Lexus RX vs 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

When discussing the design of the 2021 Lexus RX, you couldn’t ignore its distinct modern aesthetic. The prominent large grille, sharp angular headlamps, and the curvy body with a floating roof all contributed to its signature look. The interior featured luxurious seating with perforated leather upholstery, although some critiques pointed out that the center console looked somewhat dated.

Lexus offered diverse variants of the RX: RX, RX F Sport, RXL, RX Hybrid, and RXL Hybrid. Each variant had its unique characteristics, such as the performance-focused RX F Sport and the extended-body RXL versions, which included a third-row seating. The upgrades made in 2020 to the headlights and front design were maintained for 2021, aiming to address previous aesthetic criticisms.

Standard features included 18-inch aluminum wheels, LED lights, rear privacy glass, and integrated LED turn signals on the side mirrors. Exterior options further enhanced the car's look with 20-inch wheels, triple-beam LED headlights, and various other functional upgrades.

Inside, the base RX 350 model boasted carpeted floor mats, chrome door handles, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, power-adjustable front seats, and a reclining second row. There were various premium options, from semi-aniline leather upholstery to heated and ventilated seats, enhancing comfort and convenience. However, the center console’s design, while functional, was often perceived as outdated.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder took a fresh approach to design with its fifth generation, borrowing elements from Nissan's new SUV aesthetics. It showcased a revised V-motion grille flanked by LED headlights and complemented by slim daytime running lights. The Pathfinder’s broad and beefy side panels and hood aimed to present a more rugged look, mirroring the style of trendsetters like the Kia Telluride.

The vehicle was wider and more compact than its previous iteration, providing a more planted look while enhancing legroom. Customers could choose from 14 paint colors and combinations, and certain trims featured a black roof for added flair.

Nissan's four trim levels—S, SV, SL, and Platinum—all came with body-color door handles and chrome badging. Privacy glass, speed-sensitive wipers, and available options like a panoramic moonroof contributed to the blend of aesthetics and utility.

The interior maintained a high standard of finish, with the Platinum trim rivaling some of the midsize SUV segment's best offerings. The semi-aniline leather seats on higher trims provided an upscale feel akin to the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot competitors.

Under the hood of the 2021 Lexus RX, a 3.5-liter V6 engine produced 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It delivered a smooth drive but occasionally struggled with gear changes during acceleration. The RX Hybrid models combined the V6 with three electric motors, generating 308 horsepower via an electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT).

Fuel efficiency for the front-wheel-drive RX 350 was rated at 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. Adding all-wheel drive or choosing the RXL model reduced those numbers slightly. The RX Hybrid achieved 29-31 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.

The suspension and handling refinements made the RX more responsive, though some body roll was noticeable at high speeds. The F Sport model intensified the driving experience with adaptive variable suspension and performance-oriented seats and steering.

The Pathfinder's 3.5-liter V6 remained unchanged for 2022, offering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. The engine was mated to a new nine-speed automatic transmission, which delivered smooth gear transitions. The Pathfinder provided both front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations, with multiple drive modes enhancing its versatility.

Fuel economy for the FWD model was 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. The AWD model had similar numbers, with a slight improvement on the highway. The Platinum AWD version, fully loaded, returned 20 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined. The new capless fuel filler was a notable addition.

The Pathfinder delivered a stable and connected drive, thanks to significant improvements in platform and suspension. It had the best turning radius in its class, making it exceptionally maneuverable. With a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds, the Pathfinder stood out for its capability, albeit the transmission sometimes struggled at speed.

The 2021 Lexus RX demonstrated excellent functionality despite its debatable aesthetics. The two-row versions—RX 350, RX F-Sport, and RX 450h—seated five comfortably, while the three-row RXL and RXL Hybrids accommodated six or seven. The front and second-row seats offered ample space, although the third row in the RXL models was notably cramped.

Cargo space was a mixed bag for the RX. The two-row models provided 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The three-row versions offered a mere 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 58.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. In comparison, competitors like the Nissan Murano and Honda CR-V offered more cargo room.

The power liftgate was standard, and a hands-free liftgate was available.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder focused intently on interior comfort and usability. Enhanced insulation, improved acoustic glass, and thoughtful reductions in noise transmission created a quieter cabin. The rear door Intelligent Key, wide-opening doors, optional second-row captain's chairs, and the possibility to fit five car seats underscored its family-friendly design.

The Pathfinder introduced innovative solutions like the EZ Flex Latch and Glide second-row seats for easier third-row access. The removable second-row center console added convenience and storage versatility.

Cargo space in the Pathfinder was more generous than the RX. Behind the third row, the Pathfinder offered 16.6 cubic feet, expanding to 45.0 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 80.5 cubic feet with both rows down. The rear cargo space was easy to load, and the under-floor storage added practicality.

The 2021 Lexus RX came well-equipped with technology, featuring dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and a WiFi hotspot. Upgrade options included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and premium audio systems.

However, the infotainment system’s user interface and the touchpad controller were not particularly user-friendly. The lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was a disadvantage compared to newer competitors.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder impressed with its tech offerings, including an 8-inch touchscreen, six-speaker audio, voice recognition, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard. The upper trims added a 9-inch screen, wireless charging, Bose Premium audio, and a fully digital instrument panel for the Platinum trim.

The standard safety suite, Nissan Safety Shield 360, included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, high-beam assist, and rear automatic braking. Higher trims featured a surround-view monitor and an additional airbag.

The 2021 Lexus RX earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation and received high marks in crashworthiness. The standard Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 included advanced driver-assist technologies like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder also featured a comprehensive safety suite, Nissan Safety Shield 360, standard across all trims. This included key safety technologies like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning.