2023 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim level, which featured a trendy blacked-out exterior. This trim level sat in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a sporty appearance with black 20-inch aluminum wheels, unique grille design, and special interior trim. The Onyx Edition was priced at $37,995, with an optional package available for an additional $2,000. Inside, the Ascent Onyx Edition featured a gray two-tone StarTex synthetic leather upholstery, which was water-repellent but tended to trap sweat. The interior also included metallic trim on the dashboard and door panels, creating a modern ambiance.

In contrast, the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder carried over its redesign from the previous year, maintaining a modern aesthetic with futuristic headlights and an angular C-pillar. The Pathfinder's interior was praised for its clean lines and sensible layout, making it both visually appealing and practical. The Rock Creek trim level added a rugged touch with off-road suspension, all-terrain tires, and unique styling elements. The Pathfinder's cabin featured a dark aesthetic with orange stitching, while the exterior showcased a fetching forest green paint with bright orange accents.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It came standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The Ascent's fuel economy was rated at 22 mpg combined, though testing showed an average of 20.5 mpg. The engine's flat-four layout contributed to a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling. The CVT offered eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, allowing for brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent's X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance provided off-roading capability.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque. The Rock Creek trim offered a slight power boost to 295 hp and 270 lb-ft. Power was routed through a 9-speed automatic transmission to either front-wheel drive (FWD) or available all-wheel drive (AWD). The Pathfinder's rotary drive mode dial included various settings for different terrains, and the Rock Creek trim added an All-Terrain mode. The Pathfinder's towing capacity was 3,500 pounds, with the Rock Creek capable of towing up to 6,000 pounds. The Pathfinder's ride was smooth and quiet, though the new shifter design was noted as potentially distracting.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent offered a comfortable driving position and was equipped for winter weather with features like heated front seats and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easy to access, and captain's chairs were available. The Ascent provided 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 47.5 cubic feet with the second row in use, and 86.5 cubic feet with both rows folded.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder offered up to 80.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded. With the second row in use, it provided 45 cubic feet, and 16.6 cubic feet with all seats upright. The first two rows offered ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for short trips. The Pathfinder featured 12 cupholders and four bottle holders throughout the cabin. The Rock Creek trim's roof rack could hold up to 220 pounds, though its proximity to the roof made snow removal challenging.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent's base trim included a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, and satellite radio. The Premium trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. The system's voice recognition technology required improvement, and the Onyx Edition's standard stereo speakers lacked sonic quality. Additional technology features were reserved for the Touring trim.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with larger 9-inch screens available on higher trims. The system was user-friendly, though some found the graphics dated. The Pathfinder included Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, and voice recognition. Higher trims added features like a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless Apple CarPlay, and additional USB ports.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rating in rollover resistance. The Ascent came standard with EyeSight driver-assistance technology, though it had limitations in direct sunlight and lacked refinement in adaptive cruise control and lane-centering technology.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder included standard driver assistance features like forward and reverse automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added ProPilot Assist, a 360-degree parking monitor, and a head-up display. The Pathfinder's off-road mode displayed front- and side-view cameras at low speeds.