2025 Nissan Pathfinder vs Toyota Highlander: Complete Comparison Guide

When shopping for a three-row SUV, two names stand out: the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder and the Toyota Highlander.

Both offer versatile seating, modern technology, and strong performance, but which one is the better fit for your family? Whether you need a reliable daily driver or an adventure-ready SUV, this detailed comparison will help you make the right choice.

At Team Nissan of Oxnard, we’re here to break down the key differences between these two models, from power and towing capacity to safety features and interior space.

Read on to see how the Pathfinder stacks up against the Highlander, and when you're ready, visit us in Oxnard or check out our inventory online!

Choosing the Right Midsize SUV for Your Needs

When searching for the ideal midsize SUV, many drivers in El Rio, Saticoy, Camarillo, and Channel Islands want a vehicle that offers both comfort and performance. The Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota Highlander are the two top choices in this category.

Each offers unique strengths, from towing ability to technology features. In this midsize SUV comparison, we’ll explore the key differences to help you decide which SUV fits your lifestyle best.

Performance and Powertrain

The Nissan Pathfinder vs. Toyota Highlander features start with what’s under the hood. Both SUVs provide strong performance, but their approaches differ.

• Nissan Pathfinder: A 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. This setup delivers smooth acceleration and power for long drives or off-road adventures.
• Toyota Highlander: A 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine offers 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. While the torque is higher, some drivers may notice a slight lag in response compared to the V6.

Transmission Comparison:

• Pathfinder: Equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission for quick and efficient shifting.
• Highlander: Uses an 8-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth shifts but may not feel as responsive.

Driving Experience:

• The Pathfinder’s V6 engine is well-suited for road trips and rugged terrain, offering a steady power output.
• The Highlander’s turbocharged engine improves fuel efficiency, but some drivers may prefer the natural feel of a V6 for highway passing and heavy loads.

Towing Capability

For those who need towing power, the Nissan vs. Toyota family vehicle debate includes a clear distinction.

Nissan Pathfinder: Best-in-class towing capacity of 6,000 pounds. This makes it an excellent choice for hauling boats, trailers, and campers.

Toyota Highlander: Maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. While still strong, it falls short of what the Pathfinder offers.

The Pathfinder’s superior towing power is a key advantage for drivers who frequently tow heavy loads. Its powertrain and chassis are built to handle larger trailers, making it a smart pick for adventure seekers.

Interior Space and Comfort

Families looking for spacious seating will find both SUVs offer three rows, but comfort levels differ.

• Pathfinder’s second-row seats slide and recline, making it easier for passengers to get comfortable.
• Highlander’s third-row seats are more compact, making them less comfortable for adults on long drives.

Both SUVs include high-end options like leather seating and panoramic sunroofs, but the Pathfinder offers more passenger space overall.

Technology and Infotainment

Modern family vehicles need advanced technology, and both SUVs deliver strong options.

• Nissan Pathfinder: Comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen (upgradable to 9 inches). Includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and real-time traffic and weather updates.
• Toyota Highlander: Features an 8-inch touchscreen (upgradable to 12.3 inches). Also includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Alexa integration, and an available Wi-Fi hotspot.

Tech Features Breakdown

The Highlander’s larger touchscreen option may appeal to tech lovers, but the Pathfinder’s infotainment system is intuitive and well-integrated for daily drivers.

Both SUVs offer premium sound systems and user-friendly interfaces, but commuters and road-trippers may find the Pathfinder’s real-time traffic updates a practical advantage.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety is a top priority for any family-friendly SUV. Both models come equipped with a suite of advanced safety and driver-assist technologies, but there are some key differences.

Nissan Pathfinder

Comes standard with Safety Shield 360, which includes:

• Blind-spot monitoring
• Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Lane departure warning
• High beam assist

ProPilot Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system that helps with steering, braking, and acceleration on highways

Toyota Highlander

Features Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane-keeping assist
• Pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection
• Traffic sign recognition
• Automatic high beams

Both SUVs provide strong safety systems, but the Pathfinder’s ProPilot Assist offers extra convenience for long highway drives, making it a great choice for road trips and commutes.

Exterior Design and Styling

Style is more than just looks—it also affects visibility, aerodynamics, and how the SUV fits into your lifestyle.

Nissan Pathfinder

• A bold, rugged design with a large front grille
• Sculpted body lines for a strong, athletic stance
• Available two-tone roof for added visual appeal
• Off-road-ready features, like skid plates on the Rock Creek trim

Toyota Highlander

• Sleek and modern with a streamlined profile
• More refined styling for an urban, upscale appearance
• Slimmer grille and smooth body lines for a polished look

If you want a tough, adventure-ready SUV, the Pathfinder’s muscular design stands out. If you prefer a more sophisticated, city-friendly look, the Highlander may be the better fit.

Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency is important for daily commutes and long trips. Here’s how the two compare in the base models:

The Highlander’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides slightly better fuel economy. However, the Pathfinder balances efficiency with power, making it ideal for those who need extra towing strength or off-road capability.

2025 Nissan Pathfinder Trim Levels

With five well-equipped trims, the Nissan Pathfinder offers something for every driver—whether you prioritize value, comfort, off-road capability, or luxury. Explore the key features of each trim to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

S Trim

The Pathfinder S is all about delivering solid performance and essential features at a great value. With a 3.5L V6 engine, a smooth 9-speed automatic transmission, and available Intelligent 4x4, it's ready for any adventure. Safety comes standard with Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Inside, you'll find an 8" touchscreen, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and flexible seating for the whole crew.

SV Trim

Stepping up to the SV adds more convenience and comfort. You get ProPILOT Assist for stress-free highway driving, heated front seats, a 10-way power driver’s seat, and a power liftgate. Black roof rails add a sporty touch, while Remote Start with Intelligent Climate Control makes cold mornings easier. Plus, the built-in Wi-Fi hotspot keeps everyone connected.

SL Trim

The SL trim brings more luxury and tech into the mix. Leather-appointed seats, a heated steering wheel, and a 9” touchscreen with built-in navigation elevate the experience. ProPILOT Assist with Navi-Link adds smarter driver assistance, while the Intelligent Around View® Monitor makes parking a breeze. Silver roof rails and stylish 18” wheels give it a sleek finish.

Rock Creek Trim

Built for adventure, the Rock Creek trim cranks up the capability. It gets a power boost to 295 hp, standard Intelligent 4x4, an off-road-tuned suspension, and rugged all-terrain tires. A bold black grille, beadlock-style wheels, and a tubular roof rack complete the rugged look. Inside, exclusive Rock Creek badging, captain’s chairs, and unique contrast stitching set it apart.

Platinum Trim

For the ultimate Pathfinder experience, the Platinum trim delivers premium luxury. Semi-aniline quilted leather seats, a panoramic moonroof, and climate-controlled front seats make every ride first-class. A 12.3” digital dashboard, Head-Up Display, and Bose® Premium Audio add cutting-edge tech. Plus, the Motion-Activated Liftgate and power-folding mirrors make life easier.

2025 Toyota Highlander Trim Levels

The Toyota Highlander offers a range of trims designed to fit different driving styles—whether you're looking for a reliable family SUV, a sporty ride, or a luxury experience. Explore the key features of each trim to see which one suits your needs best.

LE

The Highlander LE is a well-rounded choice with modern essentials like an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+. With a spacious cabin for up to eight passengers, three-zone climate control, and advanced driver-assist features, it’s built for comfort and peace of mind.

XLE

The XLE trim adds a touch of refinement with a power tilt/slide moonroof, wireless charging, and heated SofTex®-trimmed seats. The hands-free power liftgate and auto-dimming rearview mirror enhance everyday convenience, making it a perfect balance of practicality and premium comfort.

XSE

For those who want a sportier edge, the XSE delivers with a bold mesh grille, 20-inch black alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, and twin-tip exhaust. Inside, you'll find a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and SofTex® or leather-trimmed seats, giving the cabin a high-tech, performance-inspired feel.

Limited

Luxury meets technology in the Highlander Limited, featuring leather-trimmed heated and ventilated seats, a premium JBL® sound system, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The driver’s seat memory function and silver-finish roof rails add to its upscale appeal, while parking assist with automatic braking makes maneuvering effortless.

Platinum

At the top of the lineup, the Platinum trim offers the ultimate Highlander experience. A panoramic glass roof, 10-inch Head-Up Display, rain-sensing wipers, and adaptive LED headlights create a high-end driving atmosphere. With Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD and top-tier comfort features, this trim is the definition of premium.

Which Midsize SUV is the Better Choice?

Both the Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota Highlander bring a lot to the table. But depending on your needs, one may be a better fit than the other.

Choose the Pathfinder if you need

• More towing capacity (6,000 lbs vs. 5,000 lbs)
• A more spacious second and third-row
• A rugged design with off-road-ready features
• ProPilot Assist for highway driving

Choose the Highlander if you prefer

• Slightly better fuel economy
• A more refined, city-friendly design
• A turbocharged engine with higher torque

Ultimately, both SUVs are strong contenders. If you’re looking for a powerful, adventure-ready vehicle with impressive towing and comfort, the Pathfinder is a top choice.

FAQs 2025 Nissan Pathfinder vs Toyota Highlander

When choosing between two SUVs, understanding the differences in seating, powertrains, technology, safety, and family-friendly features is crucial for making an informed decision.

Below are answers to frequently asked questions to help guide your choice between the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota Highlander.

What are the key differences in seating configurations and interior space between the Pathfinder and Highlander?

• The Nissan Pathfinder offers seating for up to 8 passengers with a spacious interior, especially in the third row, making it more comfortable for larger families. It features a flexible seating arrangement with both bench and captain's chair configurations.
• The Toyota Highlander seats up to 8 passengers and has a more compact third row compared to the Pathfinder, which may be less comfortable for adults. It also provides second-row captain’s chairs as an option for added comfort and ease of access.

Which SUV offers a more powerful or efficient powertrain for 2025?

• The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder comes with a 3.5L V6 engine producing 284 horsepower, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. While it offers solid power, its fuel efficiency is average for the segment.
• The 2025 Toyota Highlander offers a choice of a 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 265 horsepower or a hybrid powertrain. The hybrid version stands out for its excellent fuel efficiency, offering up to 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, making it a more efficient option.

Are there any distinctive technology or convenience features unique to each model?

• The Nissan Pathfinder stands out with its available 12.3-inch digital display, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system for enhanced convenience and safety.
• The Toyota Highlander is known for its inclusion of Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5+ suite, which comes standard across all trims. It also offers a premium 12.3-inch touchscreen and Apple
• CarPlay/Android Auto integration.

How do the safety ratings of the 2025 Pathfinder and Highlander compare?

• The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder has received high marks from the NHTSA, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It also includes a comprehensive suite of standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and rear cross-traffic alert.
• The 2025 Toyota Highlander also performs well in safety tests, with a 5-star NHTSA safety rating. It comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

What factors should families consider when choosing between the two vehicles?

• Families looking for more seating capacity and interior space may prefer the Nissan Pathfinder, especially if third-row comfort is important.
• Those prioritizing fuel efficiency and advanced safety tech might lean toward the Toyota Highlander, particularly the hybrid version for its eco-friendliness and extensive suite of standard driver assistance features.

Explore Your SUV Options and Learn More with Team Nissan of Oxnard

As you consider your options between the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota Highlander, we hope this information helps you make an informed decision about your next SUV.

If you're ready to explore these vehicles in person or need financing assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Our team is here to answer all your questions and help you find the perfect vehicle for your needs. Please also check out our new inventory to find the latest offers!

For those of you in El Rio, Saticoy, Camarillo, and Channel Islands, we invite you to visit our dealership or check out our inventory online, including the Nissan Kicks, which offers compact versatility and efficiency for your daily drives.

Explore more about Nissan's innovative lineup and options for urban drivers in our detailed guides. Discover the latest electric vehicle options and how they stand out in Oxnard.

Also, find out which Nissan models are ideal for navigating city streets and tight spaces in Oxnard. Learn about the practical benefits of electric vehicles for your commute around Oxnard.

We look forward to helping you with your car-buying journey and hope to see you soon at Team Nissan of Oxnard!