2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2023 Acura MDX

The fifth-generation 2022 Nissan Pathfinder took design cues from Nissan's new era of SUV design. The front showcased a reinterpretation of the signature V-motion grille, in line with the Rogue and Armada. Positioned on the model’s three-slot grille—the design honored the first-generation Pathfinder—the new Nissan logo stood prominently. LED headlights flanked the grille, with slim LED daytime running lights resembling eyebrows leading to a stout, slotted C-pillar, another nod to the original Pathfinder’s styling. Nissan offered the 2022 Pathfinder in a diverse palette of 14 paint jobs and color combinations, including an available black roof that extended down the C-pillar.

The side panels and hood of the Pathfinder imparted a beefier appearance compared to its predecessor, more reminiscent of the Kia Telluride than the Toyota Highlander. Complementing this robust look were sleek, thin taillights wrapping around the large liftgate, accented by bold nameplate badging. Nissan achieved a more rugged aesthetic it aimed for with these features.

Dimension-wise, the new Pathfinder was 0.6 inches wider with a 1.2-inch broader track, providing it with a firmly planted look. The vehicle was 0.2 inches taller and 0.8 inches shorter lengthwise, despite offering more legroom.

Nissan's design objectives were evident in positioning the Pathfinder as more capable and rugged. The vehicle came in four trims: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. Standard features included body-color door handles, chrome badging, a chrome grille, and privacy glass for rear windows. Speed-sensitive wipers were standard on all but the Platinum, which got intermittent wipers. A panoramic moonroof and roof rack were standard on SV and higher trims.

Inside, the Pathfinder featured standard eight-passenger seating, except for the Platinum trim with second-row captain’s chairs. The SL and SV trims offered those chairs optionally. Cloth upholstery was standard on S and SV, while semi-aniline leather seats adorned the SL and Platinum trims, with quilted designs on the Platinum.

Nissan didn’t provide a Midnight Edition package for the Pathfinder, but all the components were available separately for dealer installation. The interior, especially in higher trims, presented more upscale aesthetics compared to rivals like the Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Hyundai Palisade, and Telluride.

Contrastingly, the 2023 Acura MDX offered standard and Type S versions with trim packages amplifying its features. The base MDX could upgrade with Technology, A-Spec, and Advance packages, while the Type S came standard or with the Advance package. Pricing ranged from $49,550 to $73,200, excluding a $1,195 destination charge.

Our test vehicle—a Type S Advance in Apex Blue Pearl with an Orchid interior—had an MSRP of $74,995. Despite this high price, some aspects missed the luxury and dynamic expectations.

The fourth-gen MDX, the brand’s first SUV with a Type S badge, featured chicane-design LED running lights and taillights, LED headlights with automatic high beams, and minor front styling tweaks. Muted badges maintained the car’s subdued look, while 21-inch wheels offered a commanding stance. Quad exhaust outlets framed a rear diffuser panel.

All MDX models had a standard panoramic sunroof, with many featuring Iconic Drive ambient lighting themes inspired by famed racetracks. The Type S boasted perforated Milano leather, aluminum interior trim, and a Sport Appearance package. The Type S Advance added open-pore wood and a leather-wrapped dashboard.

Overall, though appealing, the MDX from certain angles looked peculiar, like the body had massive dents due to its tapering at the doors. The glossy black dashboard details complicated some controls, and they lacked user-friendliness. The electronic transmission switchgear also remained cumbersome, despite being familiar to returning MDX users.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-liter V6 engine from the previous generation, offering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. Although some enthusiasts might have hoped for hybrid options, the engine delivered ample power. This was paired with Nissan's new nine-speed automatic transmission from ZF, replacing the old CVT. The transmission, complemented by an electronic shift-by-wire drive selector and paddle shifters, delivered smooth gear transitions.

Available in FWD and AWD configurations, FWD models featured a five-position drive mode selector, while AWD variants came with seven drive and terrain modes. Standard hill-start assist and hill descent control on AWD models enhanced capability.

Fuel economy for the FWD Pathfinder was EPA-estimated at 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. AWD models offered slightly better highway mileage, though the AWD Platinum trim dipped to 20 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined.

Nissan’s platform improvements bolstered suspension stability, allowing the Pathfinder to absorb road imperfections efficiently. Steering was adequately connected, making the Pathfinder easy to navigate in both urban settings and off-road trails. The tight turning radius was notably superior to competitors like the Highlander, Pilot, Explorer, Telluride, and Palisade.

With a 6,000-pound towing capacity, the Pathfinder was equipped for decent haulage. Standard equipment included a Class II tow hitch and trailer harness, with seven-inch pre-wiring across all models. While the transmission sometimes struggled to find the right gear at speed, a brief pedal lift allowed recalibration. Stabilizing trailer sway control technology ensured stable towing, comparable to the Subaru Ascent.

The unique feature of the 2023 Acura MDX Type S was its turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, generating 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque—significant increases over the standard 3.5-liter V6. However, with the Type S weighing 285 pounds more than the lightest standard AWD MDX, the performance gains were partially offset.

The twin-scroll turbo V6 was matched with a 10-speed automatic transmission, featuring paddle shifters, powering all four wheels via Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). This system distributed up to 70% of the engine's power to a single rear wheel during hard acceleration, with a brake-based Agile Handling Assist tightening cornering lines. An Integrated Dynamics System offered various driving modes, including Snow, Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Sport+, alongside a transmission Sport mode. The Type S also featured a Lift mode, increasing ground clearance from 7.3 to 9.4 inches.

Despite the advanced features, the MDX Type S struggled cohesively in performance. The transmission often felt indecisive, with an unrefined response in Normal mode and inconsistent engine delivery. While in Sport+ mode, fuel economy dropped significantly; the vehicle averaged 16.9 mpg, falling short of the 19 mpg EPA rating. City driving yielded 17 mpg and performance driving even less at 14.1 mpg. The MDX’s turbocharged engine delivered quick acceleration but was inefficient with fuel.

Structurally robust over speed bumps, the MDX Type S' suspension also conveyed more noise and harsh feedback than anticipated. Over the Santa Monica Mountains, the transmission occasionally behaved unexpectedly, making manual paddle shifting unsatisfactory. Braking performance, facilitated by Electro-Servo brakes, was also subpar, hampering confidence in aggressive driving conditions.

Performance tires began to squeal before losing grip, and an imbalanced suspension led to noticeable body roll. The vehicle’s driving components appeared disjointed, reducing the MDX Type S's appeal as a coherent driver's SUV. As a result, for more predictable and satisfying driving, the standard MDX with A-Spec trim emerged as a better choice, maintaining SH-AWD without excessive trade-offs.

Nissan emphasized interior comfort in the Pathfinder by focusing on noise reduction. Enhanced insulation, acoustic laminated glass, and thicker second-row glass all contributed to a quieter cabin. With a design considering loading flexibility, the Pathfinder included wide-opening doors, an Intelligent Key, and features accommodating multiple car seats—a request from customer focus groups. Front-seat legroom was best-in-class, and third-row passengers enjoyed five inches more hip room.

The EZ Flex Latch and Glide second-row seats offered one-touch electronic unlocking for easy third-row access. This innovative design worked with or without forward-facing car seats, enhancing versatility. The removable second-row center console was user-friendly, providing additional storage when needed.

The front center console's new 13.4-liter storage space, facilitated by an electric shifter, more than doubled traditional capacity. Cargo space behind the third row measured 16.6 cubic feet, enough for four golf bags or six suitcases. Folding the second and third rows yielded 45.0 and 80.5 cubic feet of space, respectively. The flat rear cargo space sides and additional 54-liter underfloor area, with a self-supporting hinge, improved usability.

However, while Nissan claimed the third row could seat three adults, only individuals of average size or smaller would be comfortable. Front and second-row seating was more spacious and comfortable, even on longer trips. Heated seats were standard beyond the base trim, with ventilated seats in the Platinum. Driver and passenger seat adjustments varied across trims, with advanced features available in higher models.

The MDX's functionality also shone, offering seven-passenger seating standard, with optional removal of the second-row center section for easier access to the third row. Adjustments in the second row improved legroom but weren't as ample as expected. However, seats remained comfortable and supportive, with heating included in the Advance trim.

Power-operated release buttons facilitated third-row access, though this space was tight for adults, better suited for children. The overall interior design prioritizing style somewhat compromised storage space, with smaller bins and a layout partly obstructed by the touchpad interface.

Opening the MDX’s power liftgate revealed significant cargo space, with underfloor storage adding flexibility. The SUV comfortably accommodated family luggage, with additional hooks for securing grocery bags. Hands-free liftgate operation with Walk Away Close functionality enhanced convenience.

Acura offered two sets of cargo measurements—realistic numbers reflected 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 39.1 cubic feet with it folded, and a maximum of 71.4 cubic feet with both rear rows down. The Pathfinder provided slightly more maximum cargo space at 80.5 cubic feet, giving it an edge in carrying capacity.

Nissan equipped the 2022 Pathfinder with straight-to-the-point technology. Standard features included a six-speaker audio system, 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Siri Eyes Free, Google Assistant Voice Recognition, and smartphone integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Voice recognition, Bluetooth, satellite radio, hands-free text messaging, a 7-inch digital driver-information display, various power outlets, and USB ports rounded out the tech offerings.

Higher trims benefitted from a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless charging pad, wireless Apple CarPlay, connected navigation, additional USB ports, HomeLink, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and NissanConnect Services. A 13-speaker Bose audio system was available on the SL and standard on the Platinum trim.

In contrast, Acura's Digital Precision Cockpit in the 2023 MDX included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display. However, the non-touchscreen display operated via the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) on the center console. While featuring Return, Home, and stereo control buttons, the TTI design led to spatial inefficiencies and potential distractions.

Though developed to enhance driver interaction, the TTI's learning curve and distraction risks outweighed its supposed benefits. Instead, voice recognition and wireless smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided more effective tech management. Amazon Alexa Built-In offered additional functionality.

Acura’s infotainment included SiriusXM satellite radio, a native navigation system, and connected services through AcuraLink, now with a three-year complimentary subscription. The upscale Signature Edition ELS Studio 3D audio system, featuring 25 speakers, delivered superb sound quality, though more common audio sources didn't match this high fidelity.

With the Advance package, the MDX added a 10.5-inch head-up display (HUD), conveying driving information and assistance statuses. However, occasional misreading of traffic signs by the recognition system highlighted potential tech missteps.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder featured standard Nissan Safety Shield 360 technology, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, high-beam assist, and rear automatic braking. Standard additional safety features included a driver alertness monitor, rear door alert, forward-collision warning, and a rearview camera. Higher trims featured a surround-view monitor, with the top-tier Pathfinder Platinum adding an 11th airbag.

The 2023 Acura MDX’s AcuraWatch suite incorporated many essential safety systems, such as forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping and lane-centering assists, adaptive cruise control with low-speed following, and Traffic Jam Assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, with additional parking sensors, low-speed automatic braking, and a surround-view camera system on higher trims.

However, the MDX's safety tech exhibited occasional inaccuracies like false lane-departure notifications and collision warnings under certain conditions. Despite this, the MDX earned high safety ratings, with IIHS awarding it a Top Safety Pick+ and NHTSA giving it a five-star overall rating.