2023 Lexus RX vs 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder represented a bold step forward in design, embracing a new era of the Japanese automaker’s SUV aesthetics. Featuring an updated take on the signature V-motion grille, the Pathfinder’s front end resembled that of the Rogue and Armada. This grille, adorned with the new Nissan logo, paid homage to the original Pathfinder with its three-slot configuration. Flanking the grille were LED headlights and slim LED daytime running lights, adding to the model's rugged charm. The vehicle's bulky, slanted C-pillar and available black roof option further linked its design to the Pathfinder’s origins, while offering a modern twist.

The side panels and hood of the 2022 Pathfinder promoted a much beefier look compared to its fourth-generation predecessor, bearing more resemblance to the likes of the Kia Telluride than the Toyota Highlander. This robust aesthetic continued to the rear, where sleek, thin taillights wrapped around a spacious liftgate with bold, gate-wide badging.

Enhancements in the 2022 Pathfinder’s build included an increase of 0.6 inches in width, and a track that was 1.2 inches broader, contributing to a planted, stable appearance on the road. Though slightly higher by 0.2 inches and shorter end-to-end by 0.8 inches, the Pathfinder boasted more interior legroom than before.

Available in four trims (S, SV, SL, and Platinum), the Pathfinder offered body-color door handles, chrome accents, and privacy glass on rear-quarter, liftgate, and rear windows. Platinum buyers enjoyed intermittent wipers, while other trims featured speed-sensitive ones. Buyers had options for a panoramic moonroof and roof rack, standard from the SV trim upwards. Inside, the Pathfinder could seat eight, reducing to seven with second-row captain’s chairs on the Platinum and as an option on SL and SV trims. Cloth upholstery graced the S and SV, while SL and Platinum featured semi-aniline leather-appointed seats, quilted on the latter.

Moving to the 2023 Lexus RX, the compact SUV was shorter in height and broader in width with a longer wheelbase, despite maintaining the overall length of its predecessor. It boasted more cargo space in the trunk, albeit less than its competition. The redesigned rear overhang, softer design lines, and down-sloping black trim on the rear pillar contributed to a smaller, more compact appearance with a floating roof effect.

At the front, the RX featured a spindle-style grille better integrated into the vehicle’s modern aesthetic, along with a mesh texture and a dramatically raised hood flowing into the windshield pillars. The body sides recalled the Lexus IS sedan, contributing to flared rear fenders, while the back was marked by a light-blade taillight design, block-lettering for the Lexus name, and a sporty bumper with simulated air vents.

The overall exterior of the RX retained the familiar Lexus identity while presenting a fresh take. Sharing an aesthetic with the redesigned NX, it managed to avoid being a blown-up replica, encouraging buyers to opt for the higher-priced midsize model.

The interior of the RX was modernized with fewer buttons and knobs, centering around digital instrumentation and a touchscreen available in 9.8 or 14 inches. The head-up display was optional, and the vehicle’s features were facilitated by a natural voice-recognition technology. Lexus offered complimentary access to Intelligent Assistant technology for three years, after which a subscription was necessary. The cabin quality remained high as expected from Lexus, with NuLuxe artificial leather standard but genuine leather and simulated suede available. The RX trims included textured black plastic, real wood, and aluminum dashboard options.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-liter V6 engine from the previous generation, delivering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. While enthusiasts for alternative fuels might have been let down by the lack of hybrid or electric options, the V6 coupled with Nissan's new nine-speed automatic transmission from ZF offered a refined driving experience. This transmission replaced the old continuously variable transmission (CVT) and featured an electronic shift-by-wire drive selector and paddle shifters, ensuring smooth gear transitions.

Available in FWD and AWD configurations, the Pathfinder offered a five-position drive mode for FWD and a seven-mode selector for AWD models, including hill-start assist and hill descent control for AWD versions. Fuel economy estimates for the Pathfinder with FWD were 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. Opting for AWD altered these figures slightly, adding one mile per gallon on the highway but retaining the combined figure. The Pathfinder Platinum with AWD saw reduced efficiency at 20 mpg city, 25 highway, and 22 combined. A new capless fuel filler was part of the updates.

Built on an enhanced yet familiar platform, the Pathfinder offered improved stability and ride comfort. The suspension system adeptly absorbed road imperfections, and the steering was responsive and well-suited for urban and off-road conditions. Its tight turning radius—a significant advantage over competitors like the Highlander, Pilot, Explorer, Telluride, and Palisade—made the Pathfinder easy to maneuver and park. Boasting a 6,000-pound maximum towing capacity, it came equipped with stabilizing trailer sway control technology.

In a comparison test, the 2023 Lexus RX 350 showcased subtle power differences. Equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, it produced 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. This 8-speed automatic transmission paired engine was quieter and more efficient than its V6 predecessor, performing better at higher altitudes with slightly improved fuel economy. However, it lacked the refined sound of the V6.

Two versions of the RX 350 were evaluated: an AWD Luxury trim with 21-inch wheels and an F Sport Handling trim with adaptive damping suspension and AWD. The Luxury trim occasionally exhibited torque steer and excess body motion over uneven surfaces but delivered a generally smooth and comfortable ride. By contrast, the F Sport Handling model felt more stable and secure, especially in Sport mode, facilitated by its adaptive suspension which minimized unwanted movement.

Lexus estimated the RX 350 FWD’s 0-to-60 mph acceleration at 7.5 seconds, with AWD versions achieving it in 7.2 seconds. Real-world driving suggested a quicker feel, though, with most drivers finding it adequate. Fuel economy was projected at 25 mpg combined for FWD and 24 mpg for AWD, but actual results were slightly lower at 22.5 and 21.8 mpg, respectively.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder prioritized interior comfort, particularly noise reduction. Enhancements such as improved insulation, front-row acoustic laminated glass, and thicker second-row glass minimized road noise, making the cabin exceptionally quiet. Nissan’s design focused on flexibility, catering to families using the Pathfinder for various tasks beyond typical commutes.

The Intelligent Key rear door, wide-opening doors, and the option for second-row captain’s chairs (or three car seats across the second-row bench) illustrated this focus. Five car seats could be installed simultaneously, with best-in-class front-seat legroom and five inches more hip room for third-row passengers. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide technology for the second-row seats offered a one-touch operation, ease of access to the third row, and compatibility with forward-facing car seats—an innovative feature unmatched by competitors.

A removable second-row center console and ample front center console storage (13.4 liters thanks to the electric shifter) enhanced convenience. Cargo space behind the third row offered 16.6 cubic feet, expanding to 45 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 80.5 cubic feet with both rows down. The flush rear cargo space and 54 liters of under-floor storage catered to diverse loading needs.

Front and middle row seats provided ample comfort, while heated seats were standard above the base model and ventilated seats exclusive to Platinum. Adjustments for the driver’s seat ranged from six-way manual to eight-way power with lumbar support, and the front passenger seat varied from four-way manual to power-adjustable on higher trims. Tri-zone climate control and 16 cup and bottle holders highlighted the family-friendly design. Various liftgate options, including motion-activated power liftgate, added convenience.

In the 2023 Lexus RX, comfort and sophistication were paramount. The RX 350 Luxury featured semi-aniline premium leather upholstery, ten-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated wood-and-leather steering wheel. The Peppercorn interior, suede door accents, and black open-pore wood trim added a chic, modern feel.

The sportier RX 350 F Sport Handling model had black NuLuxe simulated leather seats, Dark Graphite trim, and optional Rioja Red NuLuxe. It included eight-way power front seats, a thick-rimmed heated steering wheel, and heated and ventilated front seats.

Roomy back seats offered good leg support, though headroom was limited for taller passengers. The RX provided improved storage and cargo space, though measurements weren’t finalized during the review. The trunk space was recorded at 29.6 cubic feet with seats in place and 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seats down, indicating a respectable but not class-leading capacity.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder was equipped with user-friendly technological features. Standard offerings included a six-speaker audio system, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Siri Eyes Free, Google Assistant Voice Recognition, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a 7-inch digital driver-information display. Additional USB ports and power outlets catered to modern connectivity needs.

Higher trims introduced a 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system, a 9-inch infotainment screen, wireless charging and Apple CarPlay, connected navigation, and further USB ports. Digital instrumentation in the high-end models offered a modern touch.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX arrived with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, available with a 9.8- or 14-inch touchscreen display. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite radio, and several connected service plans, including Drive Connect with three years of complimentary Intelligent Assistant. While the system’s primary failing was the inability to view multiple data panels simultaneously, it offered a substantial upgrade over previous Lexus tech.

Both tested RX models featured a 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium sound system, digital instrumentation, Digital Latch door handles, and optional digital rearview mirrors and digital key technology. The color head-up display (HUD) added functionality, though its effectiveness depended on lighting conditions and eyewear, particularly polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder included Nissan Safety Shield 360 as standard, offering automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, high-beam assist, and rear automatic braking. Additional standard features were a driver alertness monitor, rear door alert, and forward-collision warning. The standard rearview camera could be upgraded to a surround-view monitor on higher trims. Airbag coverage included ten standard airbags, with the Platinum trim adding an eleventh.

For the 2023 Lexus RX, the standard Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (LSS+ 3.0) provided a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including new additions like motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, intersection turn assistance with front cross-traffic alert, and curve speed-reduction with adaptive cruise control.

New semi-autonomous driving technologies included Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist for low-speed hands-free driving, and Advanced Park Assist for automated parking. These systems offered varying degrees of utility, with some requiring manual engagement and others proving less effective under certain conditions, such as wearing polarized eyewear.