2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder showcased a bold redesign, drawing inspiration from Nissan's new SUV design language. It featured a modern take on the V-motion grille, complemented by LED headlights and slim daytime running lights. The design paid homage to the original Pathfinder with its three-slot grille and bulky C-pillar. The SUV was available in 14 paint jobs, with an optional black roof that extended onto the C-pillar. The Pathfinder's side panels and hood gave it a robust appearance, aligning more with the Kia Telluride's design than the Toyota Highlander. The vehicle was slightly wider and higher than its predecessor, offering more legroom and a planted look on the road. The Pathfinder came in four trims, each with body-color door handles, chrome badging, and a chrome grille. The interior was upscale, especially in higher trims, with options for semi-aniline leather-appointed seats and a panoramic moonroof.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented an appealing three-row, midsize SUV design, with a focus on luxury and comfort. It featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, with options for a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Aviator's design was marked by its modern Lincoln face, though the wheel designs on the Black Label Grand Touring model were considered plain. The vehicle offered a sophisticated lighting sequence, electric door handles, and ambient cabin lighting. Inside, the Aviator boasted a luxurious cabin with patterned metal trim, chrome accents, and rich caramel-hued leather seats. However, some chrome detailing appeared cheap, and the key fob felt too lightweight for a luxury vehicle. The Aviator's interior was designed for comfort, with high-end materials and a panoramic glass sunroof, though some elements like the stitching and key fob could have been improved.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous CVT. The Pathfinder offered both FWD and AWD configurations, with various drive modes available. The SUV had a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds and featured a stable suspension setup for a smooth ride. Its tight turning radius made it easy to maneuver in urban and off-road settings. The Pathfinder's fuel economy was competitive, with FWD models achieving 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, combined a twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor, producing 494 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. It offered 21 miles of electric range and averaged 23 mpg in hybrid mode. The Aviator featured multiple driving modes, including Pure EV and Preserve EV, to optimize efficiency. The SUV's performance was powerful, though the drivetrain could be unpredictable at times. The Aviator's suspension provided a smooth ride, but its handling was not particularly engaging. The vehicle was designed for comfort and quietness, with a focus on highway cruising rather than sporty driving.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder's interior was designed for comfort and flexibility, with reduced road noise and improved insulation. It offered best-in-class front-seat legroom and innovative EZ Flex Latch and Glide second-row seat technology for easy third-row access. The Pathfinder provided ample cargo space, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 80.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The interior featured a removable second-row center console and a spacious front console. The Pathfinder's seats were comfortable, with options for heated and ventilated seats, and the SUV offered a range of convenience features like a power liftgate and tri-zone climate control.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were spacious, but the third row was cramped for adults. The Aviator offered 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row in use, expanding to 77.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. The interior was luxurious, with high-quality materials and a focus on passenger comfort, though the third row was best suited for children.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder was equipped with a range of technology features, including an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, a 13-speaker Bose audio system, and a digital instrument panel. The Pathfinder's tech was user-friendly, with options for wireless charging and connected navigation.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa integration. However, it ran on the older Sync 3 software, which had limitations in voice recognition. The Aviator offered a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system and a Phone As A Key digital key system. The SUV's tech included digital instrumentation and a head-up display, though the voice recognition system was not as advanced as expected for a luxury vehicle.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, which included features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. It also offered a rearview camera and a surround-view monitor on higher trims. The Pathfinder had ten airbags, with an additional airbag on the Platinum trim. However, it had not been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with Co-Pilot360 driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The Aviator's safety tech performed well, though the steering wheel controls were unnecessarily complex. The standard Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, but the Grand Touring model had not been rated.