Starting at
Starting at
| 284 | Horsepower (hp) | 280 |
| 6,000 | Max Towing (lbs) | 5,000 |
| 8/9 | Infotainment (in) | 8 |
In the world of three-row SUVs, there are a few select models that tend to dominate the industry with their spacious interior features, cutting-edge technology, and top-level performance. Two of the most trusted in this segment are the Nissan Pathfinder and the Honda Pilot, each with their own set of excellent features and each with their own dedicated fanbases. If you’re searching for the right vehicle to handle your family’s needs, or if adventure is calling your name, these two rugged SUVs are ready for any challenge you toss their way. So, let’s have a friendly competition between rivals. When it comes to the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2022 Honda Pilot, which SUV performs better in the areas of overall design, performance, and innovation?
Drivers are captivated by the newly redesigned Pathfinder, which is sporting fresh new vibes for 2022. In addition to a bolder design, the Pathfinder also showcases a better performance with enhanced capabilities and even more tech to make any drive a riveting experience. This new generation of a crowd favorite is better in every possible way, which makes it difficult for others to compete with it. The Pilot, on the other hand, delivers just a handful of changes for 2022, including new standard features, like an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen and LED headlights, plus a new TrailSport edition available, as well as a higher starting price. This warrants the question, can the higher-priced Pilot deliver more than the more affordable, yet totally revitalized, Pathfinder?
From the moment you catch a glimpse of the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder, it’ll be apparent that it showcases contemporary and athletic style, inspired by the thrill of adventure. Its more durable stance is accented by a wider build, can’t-miss fender flares, a flat hood, and more bold elements that make this SUV stand out from the crowd. Its V-Motion grille provides a stare that’s both intimidating and mesmerizing, while the first-ever two-tone paint delivers the modern look that drivers are seeking. LED lighting illuminates this classic, and with its undeniable adventurous demeanor, the Pathfinder appeals heavily to those searching for an exploration companion that can not only keep up with their escapades but looks the part too.
The 2022 Honda Pilot isn’t quite as rugged in appearance as the Pathfinder, sporting more minivan-level styling than adventurous wanderer vibes. It lacks the exterior features that make it stand out from its rivals, opting for a high level of practicality as opposed to beauty. The Black Edition will add a hint of style to this SUV; however, by way of dark accents, larger 20-inch wheels, and exclusive badging to heighten its appeal just a touch. Overall, there’s really no wow factor when looking at the Pilot, certainly not to the level that you’ll find with the new Pathfinder.
Just like its exterior appearance, the interior of the 2022 Pathfinder is absolutely ravishing. From climate-controlled front seats and available second-row captain’s chairs to a panoramic moonroof and high-end appointments, the Pathfinder is more stunning than ever before. It’s also exceptionally versatile, making it perfect for families, with an EZ FLEX second-row seating system, making it easy to access the rear of the vehicle, as well as plenty of storage cubbies inside. An under-floor cargo area makes handling travel gear a breeze, while an available motion-activated liftgate allows you to load up your Pathfinder for your next adventure with ease. No matter what you’re hauling in the Pathfinder, rest assured that you won’t have to compromise on comfort or practicality.
The entire purpose of a three-row SUV is to accommodate more people and cargo, and the key here is being able to do this comfortably. Unfortunately for the Pilot, the third row is incredibly cramped, which makes it difficult to sit back and relax during long drives. Like the Pathfinder, the Pilot offers its fair share of convenience features, including one-touch second-row seating and tri-zone climate control; however, it’s evident that its style leans more on the practical end of the spectrum, as opposed to the Pathfinder’s designer appeal.
No matter which angle you’re admiring, it’s clear that the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder is more intriguing in every respect. Not only is it more athletic and durable on the outside, its interior is carefully designed to offer the perfect blend of comfort and elegance to make for a ride that’s undoubtedly better. Unfortunately for the Pilot, its lack of styling inside and out takes away from its overall appeal. Plus, its third row is dreadfully small, which also takes away from its practicality as a family vehicle. For these reasons, the Pathfinder takes the lead when it comes to design.
Many drivers seek out SUVs due to their enhanced capabilities both on and off-road, which is exactly what you’ll find with the re-imagined 2022 Nissan Pathfinder. Opting for the all-new Intelligent 4x4 system will allow you to take advantage of seven drive and terrain modes to help you power through mud, snow, rocks, and more with unparalleled finesse.
Its new 9-speed automatic transmission makes it easier to take on any journey, showcasing a heightened response to changing road conditions, prioritizing efficiency, as well as control, depending on where you’re traveling. You’ll also find that the Pathfinder is capable of handling heavier loads, which comes in handy when you’re towing your camper out into the wilderness for a weekend adventure. Able to tow up to 6,000 lbs, the Pathfinder is outfitted with groundbreaking trailering tech, like Trailer Sway Control and an Intelligent Around View Monitor, to provide you with exceptional confidence while towing and adventuring.
The 2022 Honda Pilot showcases its own list of features, fit for avid adventurers, including an Intelligent Traction Management system to provide you with control and stability on icy roads, muddy trails, and uneven terrain. Its all-new TrailSport edition takes exploration a step further by adding increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and trail-ready capabilities to take you deep into the wilderness with confidence. For those interested in towing, the Pilot performs this task optimally; however, it’s only able to tow up to 5,000 lbs, which makes it difficult to keep up with rivals like the Pathfinder.
The 2022 Pathfinder is equipped with a sturdy 3.5L V6 engine, which provides it with the power it needs to be able to offer the level of capabilities drivers are searching for in a rugged vehicle. Its new 9-speed automatic transmission doesn’t just wow on the trails, its smooth operation and responsiveness make for a peaceful ride on the highway and beyond. You can expect an enjoyable ride in the Pathfinder, making it the ideal companion to have on your commute, weekend adventures, family road trips, and other travel endeavors.
Like the Pathfinder, the Pilot is equipped with a 3.5L V6; however, its hulking size tends to take away from the overall quality of the ride. It’s difficult to maneuver, especially when taking on the twists and turns of the road. If you opt for upper-level trims, you may think that the ride quality will improve; however, the addition of larger wheels actually does the opposite, as drivers report a rougher ride in these trim levels. It’s not as smooth or responsive as the Pathfinder and tends to lack the level of control expected on the highway, which unfortunately causes it to lose its appeal with many drivers.
From the trails to the highway, the Pathfinder outperforms the Pilot in every way. It’s not only armed with some of the most ingenious trailering tech in the industry; its powerful engine is able to deliver the capabilities expected out of a large SUV. The Pilot’s lack of responsiveness on the road, due in part to its cumbersome size, as well as its lack of towing power, places it behind other options in its segment. For all of these reasons, our loyalties remain with the Pathfinder when performance matters.
Technology plays an integral role in our vehicles, which is why the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with some of the most innovative features in the industry. Driver assistance features are always well-received by travelers, and the Pathfinder features many, including ProPILOT Assist, a semi-autonomous driving experience that acts as your assistant on the road. Helping you stay centered in your lane, navigating the turns of the road with precision, you’re able to enjoy a more controlled ride, no matter where the journey takes you. You’ll also find many standard features in the 2022 Pathfinder, including a dazzling 8-inch touchscreen and smartphone integration, as well as available features like a charging pad, in-dash navigation system, and more to heighten the appeal of your drive.
The level of innovation in the 2022 Honda Pilot, unfortunately, leaves many drivers wanting more. Not only is it lacking semi-autonomous driving capabilities, it’s also lacking the user-friendly experience that’s expected from a modern infotainment system. Base trims are outfitted with a meager 5-inch basic display, which means that you’ll need to be prepared to pay more for its 8-inch option, armed with more features. One of the highlights that it does have is CabinTalk, which allows you to communicate throughout its interior, which is especially helpful for those in the way back; however, it’s only available in top-tier trims.
There’s a stark difference between the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder and the 2022 Honda Pilot when it comes to innovation. With everything you’re able to get in the Pathfinder, including semi-autonomous driving capabilities, a large standard touchscreen, and more, you’ll be taking advantage of a connected, secure, and enjoyable driving experience in this crowd-pleaser. Unfortunately for the Pilot, it’s lacking in this area, not providing its drivers with the features they want and need in their vehicles. Due to these reasons, our pick lies with the innovative Pathfinder and everything it delivers to your ride to make it exceptional.
Newton Nissan South is the premier dealership to find exactly what you’re looking for in a vehicle, and if you’re searching for rugged capabilities and unmatched style, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder will certainly wow you. We work with our area buyers to help them find exactly what they need to make their travels better, with some of the top options on our lot, ranging from brand-new models to quality used cars. With a team that’s dedicated to your success, competitive rates, and a convenient location, it’s easy to see why more drivers are trusting in us as their go-to vehicle destination.
We even take this a step further with our state-of-the-art service facility and experienced technicians, just waiting to help you maintain your car so that it performs optimally mile after mile. When your journey requires a vehicle that will exceed your expectations, the Pathfinder is a top option, so stop by for a test drive and see why more families, adventurers, road trippers, and others are choosing to maximize the quality of their ride.
[a]MSRP may change without notice. See dealer for complete details.
*Images, fuel economy, and other stats, may reflect higher trim levels, options, or features that may result in a higher cost from the starting MSRP.
MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, additional options, and possible destination charges. Dealers set own prices.
