2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator had undergone significant design evolution from its previous iterations. Earlier models had a strong resemblance to the Ford Expedition, but the recent redesign gave it a unique identity, setting it apart from any other Ford product. The elegance of the Navigator shone through its simple, rectilinear shapes defining the grille, windows, headlights, and full-width taillight assembly. The Pristine White model, with its white-painted grille, black wheels, and illuminated Lincoln logo, was especially striking in winter conditions. The interior was nothing short of luxurious, with high-quality materials and a sophisticated design. The Slate Gray interior on the test vehicle showcased fine details, such as layered wood trim and a minimalist digital instrument panel. Black Label trims provided an even higher level of customization with additional textures and luxurious materials.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder, on the other hand, took design cues from its ancestry and modernized them with contemporary touches. The V-motion grille, LED headlights, and slim LED daytime running lights gave the Pathfinder a robust and modern appearance. The side panels and hood were bulkier, resembling the design language of other popular SUVs like the Kia Telluride. With a variety of paint jobs and color combinations, including a visually appealing black roof option, the Pathfinder achieved a rugged yet sophisticated aesthetic. The interior focused on comfort and versatility, with improved sound insulation and thoughtful touches like wide-opening doors and the ability to fit up to five car seats. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide second-row seat technology and removable center console added to its practicality.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator wielded an impressive twin-turbo V6 engine, originally found in the Ford Raptor. This 3.5-liter engine produced 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, delivering a surprisingly sprightly performance for a vehicle of its size. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Navigator offered both rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and four-wheel-drive (4WD) configurations. The towing capacity was substantial, at 8,300 pounds for 4WD models and 8,700 pounds for RWD models. Fuel economy, however, was less impressive, averaging in the teens. The ride, although luxurious, could occasionally be jarring on rough roads, and the steering and brakes lacked the precision found in some competitors.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder kept its 3.5-liter V6 engine from the previous generation, generating 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. The new nine-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, replaced the older CVT, providing a smoother driving experience. Available in both front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations, the Pathfinder featured multiple drive modes for various terrains. Fuel economy for the FWD model was EPA-rated at 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, with AWD variants delivering similar figures. The Pathfinder offered a stable and comfortable ride, with a towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds. While the transmission occasionally struggled at higher speeds, the overall driving dynamics were more than adequate for a family SUV.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator excelled in interior space with its sizeable, box-shaped design. It could comfortably accommodate six adults, with an optional bench seat increasing the potential capacity to eight. Cargo space was generous: 19 cubic feet behind the third row, 57 cubic feet behind the second row, and a total of 103 cubic feet with all seats folded. The long-wheelbase Navigator L variant offered even more room. The luxurious front seats came with myriad adjustments and massage functions, but the second-row seats lacked some of the advanced recline and cooling features found in higher-end competitors.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder emphasized flexibility and practicality in its interior design. Enhanced sound insulation created a quieter cabin, and features like the EZ Flex Latch and Glide system made accessing the third row easy. The spacious interior could fit up to five car seats, and the second-row center console was removable for additional storage and flexibility. Cargo space, while slightly less than the Navigator, was still ample: 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 45 cubic feet behind the second, and 80.5 cubic feet with both rows folded flat. Practical touches like flush cargo space sides and an under-floor storage area with a self-supporting hinge added to its utility.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator came equipped with a 10-inch touchscreen, which, while user-friendly, felt dated compared to more advanced systems like those in the Cadillac Escalade. The lack of wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto integration was a notable drawback. Nonetheless, the Navigator offered onboard 4G WiFi, wireless device charging, and a smartwatch app, along with a 20-speaker Revel Ultima stereo system. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed Roku media streaming and multiple connectivity options.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder boasted a comprehensive suite of technology features. The standard package included an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trim levels offered a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system. A fully digital 12.3-inch instrument panel and head-up display were available on the Platinum trim. With a blend of modern conveniences and user-friendly interfaces, the Pathfinder’s tech offerings catered well to family needs.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five stars overall from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with slightly lower ratings for rollover resistance. It came standard with a robust suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and auto high beams. Adaptive cruise control was optional, although it lacked the advanced self-steering capabilities of some competitors.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder included the Nissan Safety Shield 360 as standard, comprising automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, high-beam assist, and rear automatic braking. Upper trims added features like a surround-view monitor and a total of 11 airbags. Both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) had yet to crash-test the Pathfinder.