2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2021 Volvo XC40

The 2021 Volvo XC40 presented a traditional SUV aesthetic, characterized by its tall, flat roof and upright rear hatch, aligning with Volvo's signature design elements like the "Thor’s Hammer" LED headlights and a simple oval grille. The gasoline models offered a retro touch with a white contrasting roof, while the electric XC40 Recharge distinguished itself with a blanked-off grille, unique badging, and model-specific alloy wheels. The Recharge also featured a gloss black roof and mirror caps, a unique rear bumper, and a Sage Green Metallic color option. Inside, the XC40 boasted a minimalist design with high-quality materials, including real metal trim and a combination of Nappa leather and Nubuck textile upholstery, creating a cohesive and premium interior experience.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder embraced a robust design, drawing inspiration from Nissan's new SUV design era. It featured a modern take on the V-motion grille, flanked by LED headlights and slim daytime running lights, with a nod to the original Pathfinder's design through its bulky C-pillar. The Pathfinder offered 14 paint jobs and color combinations, including a black roof option. The SUV's side panels and hood contributed to a beefier look, complemented by sleek taillights and bold badging. The Pathfinder was slightly wider and higher than its predecessor, enhancing its road presence. The interior was designed for flexibility, with features like wide-opening doors, optional second-row captain's chairs, and the ability to accommodate up to five car seats, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a versatile powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The gasoline variants featured a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base FWD T4 delivered 187 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, while the AWD T5 offered 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge model, sharing its powertrain with the Polestar 2, boasted dual electric motors for AWD, producing a combined 402 hp and 486 lb-ft, powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack. The Recharge accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, while the T5 and T4 took 6.1 and 8.1 seconds, respectively. All models were electronically limited to 112 mph. The XC40 Recharge emphasized luxury and comfort, with excellent ride quality and one-pedal driving capability. It also had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.

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. Available in FWD and AWD configurations, the Pathfinder offered a five-position drive mode selector for FWD models and seven modes for AWD. The SUV achieved an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined for FWD, with slight variations for AWD. The Pathfinder's suspension provided a stable ride, and its steering was well-suited for a family vehicle. It boasted a 6,000-pound towing capacity, with features like hill-start assist and hill descent control enhancing its capability. The Pathfinder's tight turning radius made it easy to maneuver in various settings.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, both in its Recharge and gasoline variants, offered similar passenger and cargo space, though it was less spacious than competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E. Clever storage solutions, such as a removable trash bin in the center console and large door bins, compensated for the limited space. The XC40 featured a small frunk, with much of the space occupied by powertrain components. The interior was thoughtfully designed, with a focus on practicality and convenience, though second-row occupants lacked phone-charging options.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder prioritized interior comfort, with enhanced insulation and acoustic features reducing road noise. The SUV offered flexible seating arrangements, with wide-opening doors and the ability to accommodate up to five car seats. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide second-row seat technology allowed for easy third-row access. The Pathfinder provided ample cargo space, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 80.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The interior featured thoughtful storage solutions, including a removable second-row center console and a spacious front center console. The Pathfinder's seats were comfortable, with heated and ventilated options available, and the SUV offered tri-zone automatic climate control and numerous cup holders.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured the Android Automotive OS infotainment system, integrating Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. The system included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, with OTA update capability for software-controlled functions. The gasoline models retained the previous infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Recharge lacked a start button, allowing drivers to simply shift out of park to start the vehicle.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology features, including an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Siri Eyes Free, Google Assistant Voice Recognition, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth. The Pathfinder offered a 7-inch digital driver-information display, with a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument panel available on the Platinum trim. A 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system was available on higher trims, along with a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless charging pad, and additional USB ports. The Pathfinder's technology package was designed to be user-friendly and accessible across various trim levels.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 received top safety ratings, with the gasoline model earning the "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The XC40 came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Recharge model featured Volvo's latest sensor suite, capable of future updates for advanced driver aids.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder included the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite as standard, offering features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. The Pathfinder also came with a rearview camera, with a surround-view monitor available on higher trims. The SUV was equipped with ten airbags, with an additional airbag on the Platinum trim. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time.