2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2021 Lincoln Aviator

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator stood out with its distinctive design, avoiding the common trend of emulating competitors' styles. It carried forward the sharp, chrome-accented design language of the Navigator, making it a visually striking vehicle. Inside, the Aviator offered a luxurious cabin with soft-touch materials and a 10.1-inch touchscreen, creating an atmosphere of comfort and warmth. The unique piano button shifter and soothing chimes added to its luxurious feel, while various trims provided a range of features, from synthetic leather upholstery in the Standard trim to massaging front seats in the Grand Touring trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder embraced a robust and modern design, drawing inspiration from Nissan's new SUV era. Its V-motion grille, LED headlights, and bold C-pillar design paid homage to the original Pathfinder. The interior focused on flexibility and comfort, with features like the EZ Flex Latch and Glide second-row seat technology and a removable center console. The Pathfinder offered a spacious cabin with best-in-class front-seat legroom and ample cargo space, making it a practical choice for families. The interior's upscale feel, especially in higher trims, rivaled its competitors.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator offered a powerful performance with its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Grand Touring trims featured a plug-in hybrid configuration, boosting output to 494 hp and 630 lb-ft of torque, with a 21-mile electric range. The Aviator's drive mode selector provided options like "Excite" and "Conserve," enhancing its driving experience. However, its long wheelbase made maneuvering in tight spaces challenging, and noticeable body roll was present in corners.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission, it offered smooth gear transitions. Available in FWD and AWD configurations, the Pathfinder featured a drive mode selector with up to seven modes. Its stable ride and tight turning radius made it easy to handle in various driving conditions. With a 6,000-pound towing capacity and trailer sway control, the Pathfinder excelled in towing capabilities, though the transmission occasionally struggled at speed.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator provided 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 77.7 cubic feet with all seats folded. The second row, especially in the Grand Touring trim, offered comfort with captain's chairs and a digital control panel. However, the power-button door releases raised concerns about functionality if the battery died.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder prioritized interior comfort with reduced road noise and flexible seating options. It offered 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 80.5 cubic feet. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide technology facilitated easy third-row access, and the removable second-row console added convenience. The Pathfinder's spacious front and second-row seats, along with thoughtful storage solutions, made it a practical family vehicle.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with the Sync 3 infotainment system, offering a user-friendly interface and seamless integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The fully digital instrument panel and optional head-up display provided clear and crisp graphics.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came equipped with a wealth of technology, including an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 7-inch digital driver-information display. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The available 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system enhanced the audio experience.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including the Lincoln Co-Pilot 360 package with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Co-Pilot 360 Plus package added advanced features like reverse automatic braking and adaptive cruise control. The Aviator received top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, earning a Top Safety Pick accolade.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, offering features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Upper trims included a surround-view monitor and an additional airbag. However, the Pathfinder had not been crash-tested by IIHS or NHTSA.