2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder exhibited a design revolution aligned with Nissan’s contemporary SUV aesthetic. Dominated by a refreshed V-motion grille and a homage-inspired three-slot front, the Pathfinder was flanked by LED headlights and thin daytime running lights. Buyers saw 14 distinct exterior color combinations, with the optional black roof adding a sleek contrast. The SUV’s robust nature was emphasized by beefy side panels and hood, and slim taillights that wrapped around to bold rear badging. The Pathfinder also grew slightly wider and taller, although it was marginally shorter in length compared to its predecessor. These design advances gave it a hearty road presence, underscoring its capability and rugged appeal. The Pathfinder came in S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, with upscale touches like chrome features and privacy glass standard across the board. The model catered to various passenger needs with up to eight seats in most trims and luxurious accommodations like semi-aniline leather in the Platinum variant.

Conversely, the 2022 Lexus RX kept its aggressive styling from a prior facelift, presenting a sharp, modern exterior that stood out in the luxury crossover segment. Available in base 350, F Sport, and three-row L trims, the RX exuded an edgy design with boomerang-inspired character lines. The color options ranged from subtle Nebula Gray Pearl to vibrant Grecian Water exclusive to F Sport models. The RX F Sport, designed for performance, featured 20-inch wheels, black accents, and unique fascias, providing a sportier feel compared to its base and L counterparts. Inside, the RX maintained its luxury ethos with a variety of material and trim options depending on the model. The F Sport stood out with sporty elements like aluminum trims and dark red or black NuLuxe synthetic leather seats. Despite the absence of significant redesigns in recent years, the RX’s interior remained plush and highly refined.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came equipped with a time-tested 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. This engine was mated to a new nine-speed automatic transmission, replacing the former CVT. Buyers could choose between front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) models, with AWD versions offering seven drive and terrain modes. The Pathfinder featured a respectable 6,000-pound towing capacity, bolstered by advanced trailer sway control technology. The SUV’s fuel economy was competitive, with the AWD model averaging 23 mpg combined.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350, in contrast, had a more potent 3.5-liter V6 engine outputting 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. Its hybrid counterpart, the RX 450h, achieved a combined 308 hp thanks to additional electric motors. Both versions housed an eight-speed automatic transmission, with AWD standard on the hybrid and optional on the gas model. However, despite its sporty F Sport branding, the RX’s performance was underwhelming, failing to deliver an engaging driving experience. The vehicle’s drive modes and suspension settings offered little discernible difference in handling, though the RX excelled in ride comfort and cabin noise insulation.

The RX’s EPA estimates were competitive, with the RX 350 achieving 23 mpg combined and the hybrid RX 450h offering a commendable 30 mpg combined. However, its driving dynamics often felt detached and sluggish despite its promising specs.

The Nissan Pathfinder’s interior was a triumph of practical engineering, designed to accommodate families’ diverse needs. It offered a silent cabin experience due to enhanced insulation and acoustic glass. The flexibility of the Pathfinder was highlighted by wide-opening doors, the ability to install up to five car seats, and the innovative EZ Flex Latch and Glide second-row seat technology. Storage solutions were also plentiful, with a removable second-row center console, a generous front console, and impressive cargo space accommodations.

In comparison, the Lexus RX delivered a luxurious but somewhat less practical interior. The standard two-row RX boasted a passenger volume of 99.8 cubic feet and adequate head and legroom for four adults, with slightly less comfort for a fifth passenger. The three-row L model, although sitting on the same wheelbase, felt cramped for anything more substantial than groceries. The RX’s cargo space lagged behind the Pathfinder’s, with only 16.0 cubic feet behind the second row and an even more limiting 7.45 cubic feet for three-row models. However, the RX did come with thoughtful features like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holders.

Nissan packed the 2022 Pathfinder with user-friendly technology without overwhelming its drivers. Standard features included an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims enjoyed upgrades such as a 9-inch touchscreen, a 13-speaker Bose system, and wireless Apple CarPlay, emphasizing accessibility and connectivity throughout the range.

The Lexus RX, on the other hand, offered an 8-inch touchscreen display standard, with a 12.3-inch version as an option. Both screens, though updated, posed ergonomic challenges due to their positioning. The RX's infotainment system included numerous connectivity options like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a frustratingly hypersensitive touchpad. Despite these drawbacks, the RX provided a rich set of tech amenities, including six USB ports, wireless charging, and options for up to a 15-speaker audio system.

Safety was a strong suit for the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder, equipped with the comprehensive Nissan Safety Shield 360 across all trims. This suite included essentials like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. With 10 standard airbags (11 in the Platinum trim) and optional surround-view monitoring, the Pathfinder prioritized driver and passenger protection.

Similarly, the Lexus RX excelled in safety, featuring the Lexus Safety System 2.0+ as standard. This included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a pre-collision system, among others. Additional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert further elevated its safety credentials. The RX secured an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating when equipped with optional headlights and achieved respectable scores from the NHTSA.