2023 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2023 Subaru Outback

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder carried forward its 2022 redesign with minimal changes, except for the introduction of the Rock Creek trim. Its design combined futuristic elements like unique headlights with traditional SUV features, resulting in a vehicle that maintained a modern yet timeless appeal. Inside, the Pathfinder offered a clean and practical layout, making it both visually appealing and user-friendly. The trims ranged from the basic S to the luxurious Platinum, each adding more features and comfort, with the Rock Creek trim providing a rugged, off-road-ready aesthetic.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Outback received a facelift, featuring a new front end with redesigned LED headlights, a restyled grille, and a revised bumper. These changes gave the Outback a more aggressive look, especially with the Onyx Edition's black wheels and trim. The Outback's interior, particularly in the Touring trim, was praised for its upscale feel, with Java Brown leather and thoughtful design elements. Despite some hard plastics, the cabin was comfortable and practical, with features like heated and ventilated seats and a robust roof rack.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. The Rock Creek trim offered a slight power boost to 295 hp and 270 lb-ft. Power was delivered through a 9-speed automatic transmission, with options for front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The Rock Creek trim featured off-road enhancements like a taller suspension and all-terrain tires, though these made for a rougher ride on paved roads. The Pathfinder's towing capacity was impressive, with the Rock Creek capable of towing up to 6,000 pounds.

The 2023 Subaru Outback offered two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter flat-four with 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four in the XT models, producing 260 hp and 277 lb-ft. The standard engine struggled with power, especially at higher speeds and elevations, while the turbocharged version provided more satisfying performance. Both engines were paired with a CVT, and all models featured Subaru's Active Torque Split AWD system. The Outback excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its X-Mode traction system and generous ground clearance.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder offered up to 80.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded, and 16.6 cubic feet with all seats upright. The interior was spacious, with ample headroom and legroom in the first two rows, and a third row suitable for short trips. The Pathfinder featured numerous storage compartments and cupholders, enhancing its practicality. The Rock Creek trim's roof rack was particularly useful, though its proximity to the roof could make snow removal challenging.

The 2023 Subaru Outback prioritized utility with features like a robust roof rack and practical interior design. The Touring trim offered comfortable seating with power adjustments and premium Nappa leather. The Outback provided 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 75.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The vehicle's design made entry and exit easy, and the interior was spacious enough to keep passengers comfortable on long trips. However, wind noise was noted as a minor issue.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with higher trims offering a 9-inch version. While the system was user-friendly, some found the graphics dated. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity, with additional features like a Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless charging available on higher trims. The Pathfinder's tech was functional, though not cutting-edge.

The 2023 Subaru Outback, except for the Base trim, featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included physical controls for essential functions, but other features were embedded in the touchscreen. While the system's usability improved, the graphics and voice recognition were criticized. Additional tech included a digital rearview mirror and a front-view camera, though a surround-view camera was not available.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder offered a comprehensive suite of standard driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added features like ProPilot Assist, a 360-degree parking monitor, and a head-up display. The Pathfinder's safety features were robust, providing confidence on the road.

The 2023 Subaru Outback was equipped with Subaru's EyeSight system, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency steering. The Outback earned top safety ratings from the IIHS, though some driver assistance features were noted to have an artificial feel.