Disclaimers

Nissan Pathfinder vs Toyota Highlander

Have you found yourself in need of a new adventure companion? In exploring the Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota Highlander, you have two great options that will always be ready for exploration. Whether you’re off the beaten trail or headed downtown, both of these SUVs have you covered around the San Leandro, Oakland, and Alameda, California, areas.

Which one of these vehicles is for you? Check out this Nissan Pathfinder vs. Toyota Highlander comparison from our team at San Leandro Nissan to find out!

Performance

Under the hood, these two SUVs compare very closely. Both the Pathfinder and the Highlander come stocked with 3.5L V6 engines. Accordingly, both will arm you with over 280 horsepower and over 250 lb-ft of torque.

While their performance compares closely in terms of raw output, there is a difference when it comes to each vehicle’s transmission. The Highlander comes with a more standard 8-speed automatic transmission. Meanwhile, the Pathfinder comes with an Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission). Instead of using set gear ratios, the Xtronic CVT® continuously optimizes, so your performance can be maximized.

Performance

Dimensions & Capacities

You’ll also want to take a look at the capacities of these two large SUVs. Both come with third-row seating, so you’ll have plenty of room for family and friends. However, the Pathfinder comes with more passenger volume, so it could prove to be a bit more comfortable in its accommodations.

Pathfinder

Highlander
154 cubic feet
Passenger Volume
141.3 cubic feet


Similarly, the Pathfinder edges out the Highlander when it comes to cargo capacity. Behind the third row of the Nissan, you’ll have 16.2 cubic feet of cargo volume at your disposal. Under the same conditions, the Toyota will only provide you with 16 cubic feet of cargo volume. This difference, while slight, may prove important on your next adventure in your ability to bring along a few more items.

If you find you have gear that just won’t fit inside the cabin of these spacious SUVs, both will also accommodate with adequate towing capacities. The Toyota SUV features a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, while the Nissan SUV can tow up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped.1

Multimedia

Multimedia

Whatever adventure you decide to head out on, you’ll be able to remain connected to the outside world, thanks to the expansive multimedia systems found in both the Highlander and Pathfinder. Both arm you with the ability to connect your mobile devices via Bluetooth® and both provide excellent sound quality, thanks to impressive 6-speaker sound systems.


You’ll find a few additional features on the Nissan SUV, though, like the HD Radio® and speed-sensitive volume control. The HD Radio® will provide you with another way to find high-quality audio, while the speed-sensitive volume control will automatically keep your volume at an ideal level based on the speed at which you are traveling.

Adventure on in the Pathfinder or Highlander

Ready to get behind the wheel of one of these premium SUVs after checking out this Nissan Pathfinder vs. Toyota Highlander review? Our team at San Leandro Nissan believes the Pathfinder is a great fit for San Leandro, Oakland, and Alameda, CA, drivers and is waiting to help you get out on the local roadways for a test drive!

1. Maximum towing capacity when properly equipped. Towing capability varies by trim level and configuration. See Nissan Towing Guide and Owner’s Manual for additional information.