2022 Toyota Highlander vs Nissan Pathfinder

Seeking a comfortable and spacious ride that fits the whole family? Look no further than SUVs! The Toyota Highlander and Nissan Pathfinder offer three rows of seating while also providing advanced technology features. Whether you choose one or the other, both will make excellent picks for customers seeking a quality SUV experience--so take some time to explore which is right for your needs today.

The Powertrain

With 11 trim levels, the Toyota Highlander offers powerful and fuel-efficient SUVs for everyone. While five of these trims feature hybrid systems with efficient 2.5L gas engines providing 243 net horsepower, six non-hybrid Highlanders come powered by reliable 3.5L V6s that generate an impressive 295HP and 263 lb.-ft., proving why it’s a compelling choice! The standard model is no slouch either - achieving up to 21 mpg in cities and 29 on highways while its hybrid counterpart reaches 36/35 city/hwy respectively – much more economical than Nissan Pathfinder's 21/27 rating.

With either type of Toyota powertrain, there is a choice of getting front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The hybrids have electronic on-demand all-wheel drive, while the non-hybrids have a pretty typical all-wheel-drive system. Some trims, though, have a more advanced program called dynamic torque vectoring all-wheel drive. It can deliver more engine torque to either the left or right wheel, depending on the conditions and which wheel has more traction. Further, the XSE has sport-tuned suspension to improve its handling, especially when cornering.

Automatic transmissions are the only option with the Toyota Highlander. The hybrids have electronically controlled continuously variable transmissions, and the standard models have direct shift eight-speed electronically controlled automatic transmissions.

There are several drive modes for people to consider using. Normal mode is the default mode, and honestly, some people may never deviate from this. There is the option of switching to Sport or Eco mode if someone wants to pump up the level of aggression or take things down a notch in favor of efficiency. Hybrids have EV mode so that they can rely on electric power for limited stretches of road, and non-hybrids with front-wheel drive have Snow mode to increase their traction.

If a hybrid has all-wheel drive, it would have Trail mode in addition to the other driving modes. If a non-hybrid has all-wheel drive, it would get to have the Multi-Terrain Select dial. This dial has settings for Mud and Sand as well as Rock and Dirt.

The Nissan Pathfinder is a reliable ride for the whole family. Thanks to its 3.5-liter V6 engine, it provides power and control close to that of traditional Highlander models but with an improved 284 horsepower and 259 pound feet torque -- more than enough oomph when you need it! Not only does this vehicular powerhouse come in front or all wheel drive options, there's also manual mode along with paddle shifters mounted conveniently on your steering wheel - making driving fun again while keeping safety firmly at the forefront.

The Nissan, too, has different driving modes. Its front-wheel-drive models have five modes, and the all-wheel-drive models have seven modes. They include Mud and Rut mode, Sand mode, and Tow mode. Like the Toyota, the Pathfinder has Sport and Eco modes so that drivers can change things up as their mood changes.

Gliding downhill is a breeze with Nissan and Toyota's SUVs which now come equipped with Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist. With the former, drivers can control their speed as they tackle steep slopes while the latter provides an extra safety precaution by holding brake pressure when transitioning from brakes to gas pedal. No matter your route, these advanced features make driving easier than ever before!

The Pathfinders offer a balanced, competent suspension with its front and rear stabilizer bars plus an independent multi-link system in the back. Perfect for everyday driving trips to school or work, but if you're searching for serious off roading capability or tight turning radius on winding roads - head towards the Highlander line!

If you need to move some weight, either the Toyota Highlander or Nissan Pathfinder can get it done. The regular Highlanders come with a 5,000-pound max towing capacity - though its hybrid versions are limited to 3,500 pounds. On the other hand, Pathfinders don't miss out on power: even their entry-level trims offer up 3,500 pounds of pulling capability and higher grades take that all way up 6K!

Drivability

Boasting a plethora of power, the Highlander and Pathfinder are sure to provide an adventure on any terrain. These vehicles have just enough length - 194.9 inches for the Highlander, 197.7 inches for the Pathfinder – so you can take them anywhere without fear! Though they may need some extra room in tight spots or smaller parking areas, these capable beasts will dominate whatever landscape awaits them with ease!

Neither SUV has a particularly large third row. In fact, it may be uncomfortable for taller riders to sit in the back. The Highlander has 27.7 inches of third-row leg room, and the Pathfinder has 28 inches of third-row leg room.

Fortunately, there's more space in the second row of the cabins. The Highlander has a generous amount of space in this row, with 41 inches of leg room. In the Pathfinder, there's actually not a ton of room, but it's certainly a decent amount, with there being 35.5 inches of leg room. Select Highlander and Pathfinder trims can have two captain's chairs in this middle row instead of bench seats. This would bring total seating capacity down to seven instead of eight, but it does open the cabin a bit.

The Pathfinder and Highlander provide generous space for the driver and front passenger, allowing them to stretch out in 44.3 and 42 inches of first-row legroom respectively. On top of that, passengers are treated to comfort levels beyond compare with options like a power adjustable seat as well as luxurious upholstery including fabric, SofTex or leather tones - not forgetting creature comforts such as heated seats both rows plus steerer wheel heating!

If you're looking for the ultimate comfort driving experience, look no further than the Pathfinder. You get a manually adjustable driver's seat in the entry-level trim and can upgrade to power-adjustable seats with your choice of cloth, leather or Semi Aniline upholstery! For extra luxury, opt for higher trims that come equipped with heated front & second row seats as well as a heated steering wheel - while select Pathfinders even feature an added bonus of having a power-adjustable steering column.

Climatically comfortable and stylishly sophisticated, the two trims come with an array of convenient features. Automatic climate control systems divides the cabin into three zones for ultimate comfortability; Smart Key Systems bring tech-savvy convenience to your drive while Push Button Start takes engine engage from 0 - 60 in seconds! And on top of it all? The choice between a Regular Power Moonroof or Panoramic one – so you can get just as much style out of these vehicles as practicality.

Whether you're bringing the whole family or hauling cargo, these two models offer plenty of space. The Highlander and Pathfinder both provide a generous interior storage capacity with 84.3 cubic feet in the former and 80.5 in the latter - even when all three seats are occupied! Behind each car's backseats lies an additional 16 cubic feet for extra luggage, so just pack up your bags and hit the road!

Both vehicles start out with eight-inch touchscreens, but there are bigger options. The larger touchscreen on the Pathfinder measures nine inches, and the optional one on the Highlander is a 12.3-inch version. With the two vehicles, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM, and Bluetooth are standard, with the Highlander also having Amazon Alexa. Higher trims can be upgraded with navigation.

All trims of the Toyota SUV have Wi-Fi capability. With the Pathfinder, all trims except the first one in the lineup have this feature. In regards to the sound system, the lower Highlander trims have six speakers, while the higher ones can have 11 JBL speakers. Similarly, the Pathfinder starts out with six speakers. Its higher trims have 13 Bose speakers.

With the possibility of having many people in the cabins of these two vehicles, it's important that passengers have access to charging ports. There's good news for anyone who may be concerned with this. The Highlander has five USB ports and available wireless charging. Wireless charging is available with the Pathfinder, too, and it can have four, five, or fix USB ports, depending on the trim.

Safety

Families looking for a safe and secure driving experience need look no further than Toyota's Highlander and Nissan's Pathfinder, both of which offer an array of driver-assist technologies to protect passengers. From lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control – plus the added bonus of lane keep assist on most trims in the Pathfinder – these vehicles ensure that everyone stays firmly planted while out exploring their next adventure.

Families looking for a safe and secure driving experience need look no further than Toyota's Highlander and Nissan's Pathfinder, both of which offer an array of driver-assist technologies to protect passengers. From lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control – plus the added bonus of lane keep assist on most trims in the Pathfinder – these vehicles ensure that everyone stays firmly planted while out exploring their next adventure.

Nissan outshines the Highlander on safety features with an impressive selection of components in its base trim, including blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert to help drivers avoid obstacles. Meanwhile, though it may have parking assist programs that come with automatic braking for additional convenience, Highland's entry level model lacks these essential protective elements.

With the all-new SUVs, driving is now safer and easier than ever. Every model comes equipped with a head-up display to keep drivers informed of their surroundings without having to look away from the road, as well as an all-around monitor for added visibility. Feel confident in your car knowing you have top quality technology keeping track of potential dangers!

Which Has the Best Value?

By a small margin, the Pathfinder is more affordable. Its first trim costs $34,640, whereas the Highlander starts off with a cost of $35,855. The price of the Highlander slowly creeps up with higher trims. Since there are 11 total options, there are a lot of small increments. The most expensive Highlander is the Platinum, which costs approximately $48,000. If anyone wants a hybrid version of that Platinum, the cost would be $49,510.

The Pathfinder comes in four distinct trims, each loaded with features. The SV has cozy heated front seats and convenience-enabling remote engine start for effortless access to the SUV's power. For those seeking more luxury, the SL offers full leather seating and a navigation system around $40k while those after an even grander experience can opt for Platinum trim at over $47k that includes top of line amenities sure to impress any driver or passengers alike!

The high-end Pathfinder and Highlander Platinums come with a luxurious panoramic moonroof, sleek 20-inch wheels, and an impressive array of technology. With their second row captain's chairs standard features, these vehicles offer unparalleled comfort for your next road trip or cruise around town!

Which Is Better?

The Highlander and Pathfinder offer spacious cabins, but the differences in size can be hard to tell without seeing them first hand. However, one thing is clear: more second-row legroom on the Highlander stands out compared to less room for third row passengers; while extra cargo space behind its third row gives the Pathfinder a slight edge over total capacity. Buyers might also be attracted by larger touchscreen of the Highlanders combined with Nissan's comprehensive safety package - it'll take some careful consideration between these two cars before you make your decision.

Both the Pathfinder and Highlander are neck-and-neck in this competition. Though they both boast similar size engines, their differences begin when examining towing capacity: with an edge going to the former for logistical tasks. However, frugal drivers should take note of the latter's hybrid option - no doubt a major boost towards lowering gas costs over time! But ultimately it comes down to budget or efficiency as there is little else that can set these two rivals aside from each other.