2023 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent a subtle evolution rather than a radical redesign. Its front and side profiles remained largely unchanged, maintaining the broad, rounded face and expansive sheet metal of its predecessor. A notable update was the vertical accent strip under the mirrors, replacing the previous L-shaped trim. The rear of the vehicle saw the most significant change, with the introduction of thin LED taillights integrated into a darker trim element, replacing the old square lights. The Range Rover continued to emphasize its size, especially in the long-wheelbase version, which added eight inches to its length. Inside, the cabin was simplified with fewer buttons and a larger touchscreen, while maintaining a familiar design. Premium materials, such as leather and rich wood trim, enhanced the luxurious feel, and the solid construction ensured a quiet and comfortable ride.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder carried over its redesign from the previous year, with minimal changes except for the introduction of the Rock Creek trim. Its design combined futuristic headlights with traditional elements, resulting in a modern aesthetic that extended into the cabin. The interior featured clean lines and a sensible layout, making it both visually appealing and practical. The Pathfinder offered various trims, each with distinct features, from the base S trim with essential amenities to the top-tier Platinum trim with luxurious upgrades. The Rock Creek trim stood out with its rugged styling, off-road suspension, and water-repellent interior, catering to adventurous drivers. Overall, the Pathfinder's design aimed to remain relevant and functional for years to come.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrain options. The base P400 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The more powerful P530 variant boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine, delivering 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The P400 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, impressive for its nearly 6,000-pound weight. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile, with well-managed body roll and standard rear-wheel steering for improved maneuverability. Its off-road capabilities were enhanced by the Terrain Response system, which adjusted the suspension and drivetrain for optimal traction. Despite its size, the Range Rover provided a smooth and quiet ride, making it one of the most comfortable luxury SUVs available.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque. The Rock Creek trim offered a slightly higher output of 295 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. Power was transmitted through a 9-speed automatic transmission to either front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive. The Rock Creek trim featured off-road enhancements, including a taller suspension and off-road shocks, but the ride on regular roads was rougher due to the off-road tires. The Pathfinder's engine provided sufficient power for city and highway driving, and the automatic transmission was smooth and quiet. The vehicle included a rotary drive mode dial with various settings for different terrains, and the Rock Creek trim added an All-Terrain mode and downhill crawl assist. The Pathfinder's towing capacity was 3,500 pounds, with the Rock Creek capable of towing up to 6,000 pounds.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered ample space in the first two rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. Front seats were comfortable, with available massage functions, and there was plenty of storage for personal items. The second row provided generous space for taller passengers, with power recline and sliding adjustments. The optional third row was accessible via a button, though headroom was limited for adults. Cargo space behind the third row was 17.1 cubic feet, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 93 cubic feet with all rear seats down. The split tailgate and adjustable air suspension made loading cargo easier.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder offered up to 80.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded. With the second row in use, it provided 45 cubic feet, and 16.6 cubic feet with all seats upright. The first two rows offered ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for shorter trips. The optional second-row captain’s chairs facilitated access to the third row. The Pathfinder featured numerous cupholders and storage compartments, and the Rock Creek trim included a robust roof rack capable of holding up to 220 pounds. However, the roof rack's proximity to the roof made snow removal challenging.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover featured a new 13-inch touchscreen with the Pivi Pro infotainment system, offering sharper graphics and quicker responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system provided excellent sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade. Additional tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote control via a smartphone app.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with larger 9-inch screens available on higher trims. The system was user-friendly, with real buttons and dials, though some found the graphics dated. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and voice recognition. Higher trims added a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless device charging, and additional USB ports. While not cutting-edge, the Pathfinder's tech offerings were practical and functional.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. These features performed well, with the surround-view cameras particularly useful for off-roading.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder offered a comprehensive suite of standard driver assistance features, including forward and reverse automatic emergency braking, collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic high beams, parking sensors, driver attention monitoring, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added ProPilot Assist, lane centering, adaptive cruise control, front parking sensors, a 360-degree parking monitor, traffic-sign recognition, rain-sensing wipers, and a head-up display. The Pathfinder's safety features were robust and effective.