2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder enjoyed a significant design overhaul, embodying a more rugged and capable aesthetic. The front showcased a fresh take on Nissan’s V-motion grille, which paid homage to the model’s origins. Flanked by LED headlights and slim daytime running lights, the new grille sat proudly beneath the latest Nissan logo. The Pathfinder’s robust side panels and hood gave it a beefier look compared to its predecessor, aligning more with modern SUV design tendencies such as those seen in the Kia Telluride. The Pathfinder was offered in 14 paint jobs, including striking combinations featuring a black roof.

The 2023 Volvo XC90, on the other hand, past models were criticized for their rather boxy and uninspired design. By 2023, the XC90 had evolved into a sophisticated and purposeful SUV. Featuring Volvo’s “Thor’s Hammer” headlights, a solid-styled front end, and 21-inch wheels, the XC90 presented a strong yet understated appearance. Its Platinum Gray paint option added a touch of depth and richness. Inside, the XC90’s minimalist and elegant design was marked by two-tone leather, Nappa leather upholstery, and luxurious touches like Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers and an Orrefors crystal shift knob. The Swedish efficiency was evident throughout, although it leaned towards a minimalist feel with clean lines and wood deco inlays.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a smooth nine-speed automatic transmission, offered a balanced performance. The Pathfinder was available in both front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations, with different drive modes catering to various terrains. While not a hybrid, its towing capacity stood impressive at 6,000 pounds. It absorbed road imperfections well, providing a stable ride that was superior to many of its direct competitors. The fuel economy for the AWD model reached 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 saw the introduction of mild-hybrid technology with its new B5 and B6 engines. The B5 version produced 247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and the B6 offered 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft. Though these powertrains were less about raw power and more focused on efficiency and smooth operation, they still delivered a confident driving experience. The XC90's eight-speed automatic transmission performed admirably, ensuring smooth acceleration and predictable handling. While it did not boast features like hill-descent control, the XC90 excelled in ride comfort and insulation from road noise.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder interior was designed with a focus on flexibility and space. With sound-reducing enhancements, it offered a quieter ride. The Pathfinder’s innovative EZ Flex Latch and Glide system allowed easy third-row access, even with car seats installed. The SUV provided abundant storage, including a substantial front center console and removable second-row console. Cargo space was considerable, offering 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 45.0 cubic feet with the third row down, and a total of 80.5 cubic feet with both rows folded.

By contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 prioritized elegance and minimalism, though at the expense of some practical storage solutions. Small-item storage was limited, and adjustments for back-row seating could be cumbersome. While it offered a second-row bench seat as standard, adding captain’s chairs required a $500 upgrade along with the higher-powered B6 engine. The XC90’s cargo capacity was less than the Pathfinder’s, at 12.5 cubic feet with all seats up, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row down, and a maximum of 65.5 cubic feet—less than some of its competitors.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder featured an impressive suite of standard technological amenities. Even the base model included an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and various USB ports. Higher trims added a 9-inch touch screen, a premium Bose audio system, and wireless Apple CarPlay. Analog displays were standard on most trims, with the Platinum trim offering a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument panel and head-up display.

Volvo equipped the 2023 XC90 with its cutting-edge Google OS infotainment system. This included built-in Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Spotify, presented on a 9-inch vertically positioned touchscreen. The XC90 also featured a 12.3-inch driver information display. While the tech offered seamless integration and natural-language recognition, many critical functions were embedded within the touchscreen interface, potentially posing an inconvenience.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came with a comprehensive suite of safety features under its Nissan Safety Shield 360. This included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and rear automatic braking. A surround-view monitor and 11 airbags were available at higher trims. However, it was yet to be crash-tested by either the IIHS or NHTSA.

Conversely, the 2023 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo’s legacy of safety leadership, coming standard with a plethora of advanced driver assistance systems. It boasted adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Volvo’s Pilot Assist for semi-autonomous driving. The XC90 received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS in 2022.