2024 Acura MDX vs 2023 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder carried over its design from the 2022 model year, maintaining its modern yet traditional aesthetic. Its futuristic headlights and angular C-pillar gave it a forward-thinking look that was expected to remain relevant for years. Inside, the Pathfinder's cabin featured clean lines and a sensible layout, making it both visually appealing and practical for everyday use. The trims ranged from the base S to the top-tier Platinum, each offering a variety of features such as alloy wheels, climate control, and infotainment systems, with the Rock Creek trim adding rugged elements for off-road enthusiasts.

In contrast, the 2024 Acura MDX boasted a striking exterior with a large shield grille and rakish headlights, complemented by a modern lower bumper design. Inside, the MDX was high-tech but busy, with a center console filled with controls that could be overwhelming. The MDX was available in several trims, or "packages," including the Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages, as well as the performance-oriented Type-S and Type-S Advance. Standard features included tri-zone climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof, with higher trims adding luxury touches like massaging seats and premium audio systems.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque, with the Rock Creek trim offering a slight boost to 295 hp and 270 lb-ft. Power was delivered through a 9-speed automatic transmission to either front-wheel drive or available 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 rotary drive mode dial offered various settings, including Eco, Sport, and All-Terrain, with a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds for the Rock Creek and select trims.

The 2024 Acura MDX came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the Type-S variant featured a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission managed power delivery to either front-wheel drive or Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive System. The Type-S Advance trim offered strong acceleration and a comfortable ride, with adaptive air suspension and Brembo brakes enhancing performance. The MDX's Integrated Dynamics System provided multiple drive modes, including Sport+ and Lift, with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder offered up to 80.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded, 45 cubic feet with the second row in use, and 16.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats. The first two rows provided ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for shorter trips. The optional second-row captain's chairs facilitated access to the third row, and the cabin featured numerous cupholders and storage compartments. The Rock Creek trim's roof rack could hold up to 220 pounds, though its proximity to the roof made snow removal challenging.

The 2024 Acura MDX provided 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 39.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and a maximum of 71.4 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down. The first two rows were comfortable, but the third row was best for children. The Type-S Advance trim included a second-row bench with a fold-down center console and integrated cupholders. The center console offered ample storage, though the center stack of controls was cluttered, with a touchpad shifter that required acclimation.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with higher trims offering a 9-inch screen. While the system was user-friendly, some found the graphics dated. The Pathfinder included four USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, and voice recognition, with additional features like a Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless charging available on higher trims.

The 2024 Acura MDX's infotainment system was its weak point, with a 12.3-inch display controlled by a touchpad that was unintuitive. Despite this, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, satellite radio, HD radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The center console cleverly housed charging ports and a wireless charging pad, though the overall interface detracted from the driving experience.

The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder included standard driver assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, collision warning, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added ProPilot Assist with lane centering and adaptive cruise control, front parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, and a head-up display.

The 2024 Acura MDX offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Technology Package added parking sensors and reverse automatic emergency braking, while the Advance Package included a 360-degree camera and head-up display. The MDX earned high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, though the infotainment system posed a distraction risk.