2024 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 2024 Toyota Highlander: Specs & Features Comparison
Posted at Mon, Jun 24, 2024 10:15 PM
When choosing between the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder and the 2024 Toyota Highlander, potential buyers often weigh factors such as power and performance, interior features, technology, and safety ratings. The Pathfinder boasts superior horsepower, torque, and towing capacity, while the Highlander offers impressive fuel efficiency and a more advanced infotainment system. Additionally, the Pathfinder excels in safety with a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS. This article will delve into these aspects to help you decide which SUV best fits your needs.
Power and Performance Comparison: 2024 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 2024 Toyota Highlander
| Feature | 2024 Nissan Pathfinder | 2024 Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 284 HP | 265 HP |
| Torque | 259 lb-ft | 245 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | Intelligent 4x4 | Available AWD |
| Gas Mileage | 21/27 MPG (city/highway) | 21/29 MPG (city/highway) |
| Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
Written Power & Performance Analysis
The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine ensures robust performance whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling rugged terrain. The Pathfinder also boasts an impressive towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds, making it a great choice for those who need to haul trailers or boats. Additionally, it features Intelligent 4x4, which enhances its capability across various driving conditions, from muddy trails to snowy roads.
On the other hand, the 2024 Toyota Highlander comes with a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 265 horsepower and 245 lb-ft of torque. While slightly lower in power compared to the Pathfinder, the Highlander offers competitive fuel efficiency with an estimated 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. Its towing capacity reaches up to 5,000 pounds, which is sufficient for most family and recreational needs. The Highlander also offers an available all-wheel drive system that provides stability and control in diverse driving conditions.
Recommendation
Based on the power and performance metrics, the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder stands out with its higher horsepower, torque, and superior towing capacity. These features are particularly beneficial for prospective buyers who need a vehicle capable of handling heavy loads and off-road adventures. The Pathfinder's Intelligent 4x4 system further enhances its appeal, providing versatility and confidence across various terrains and weather conditions.
Interior Features and Technology Comparison: 2024 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 2024 Toyota Highlander
| Feature | 2024 Nissan Pathfinder | 2024 Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | Up to 8 | Up to 8 |
| Infotainment System | 8-inch or optional 9-inch touchscreen | 8-inch touchscreen, optional 12.3-inch touchscreen |
| Digital Dashboard | 12.3-inch | 12.3-inch |
| Wireless Smartphone Integration | Yes | Yes |
| Head-Up Display | Yes | Yes |
| Audio System | Bose® Premium Audio System | JBL® Premium Audio System |
| Connectivity | NissanConnect®, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto® | Toyota Audio Multimedia, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto® |
| Rear Seat Entertainment | Optional | Optional |
Interior and Technology Analysis
The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder provides a roomy interior that can seat up to eight passengers, making it ideal for large families or groups. It features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional upgrade to a 9-inch screen on higher trims. The fully customizable 12.3-inch digital dashboard offers a clear view of navigation and other critical information. The Pathfinder also comes with the Bose® Premium Audio System, which provides excellent sound quality. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto® integration come standard, ensuring seamless connectivity for all your devices.
The 2024 Toyota Highlander also seats up to eight passengers and offers similar interior spaciousness. It features an 8-inch touchscreen as standard, but buyers can opt for a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen for a more enhanced multimedia experience. The Highlander includes a 12.3-inch digital dashboard, mirroring the Pathfinder's capabilities. For audio, it boasts the JBL® Premium Audio System, which is known for its high fidelity. Like the Pathfinder, the Highlander also offers wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto®, providing easy access to your smartphone's features and apps.
Recommendation
In the realm of interior features and technology, the 2024 Toyota Highlander has a slight advantage with its larger available 12.3-inch touchscreen, offering a more immersive infotainment experience. This can be particularly appealing to tech-savvy buyers who value a larger display for navigation and media. The high-quality JBL® audio system in the Highlander also enhances the overall driving experience, making it an attractive option for those who prioritize in-car entertainment.
J.D. Power Quality and Reliability Ratings and IIHS Safety Ratings: 2024 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 2024 Toyota Highlander
| Feature | 2024 Nissan Pathfinder | 2024 Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| J.D. Power Quality & Reliability | 80 | Not Available |
| IIHS Safety Rating | Top Safety Pick+ | Top Safety Pick |
Safety and Reliability Analysis
In terms of safety, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has awarded the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder the Top Safety Pick+ designation. This top-tier rating reflects excellent performance in all crashworthiness tests, including the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, and side tests. Additionally, the Pathfinder's standard headlights and pedestrian front crash prevention systems received high marks, ensuring comprehensive protection for occupants and pedestrians alike.
The 2024 Toyota Highlander earned the Top Safety Pick award from IIHS, which is a commendable rating but slightly lower than the Pathfinder's. The Highlander performed well in most crash tests, achieving good ratings in small overlap front and side tests. However, it fell slightly short in the updated moderate overlap front test. Despite this, the Highlander still offers strong safety features, including good-rated headlights and effective pedestrian crash prevention systems.
Recommendation
The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder holds a slight edge in safety with its Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS. This higher safety designation makes the Pathfinder an attractive option for buyers who prioritize top-notch crash protection and advanced safety features. The comprehensive safety suite and superior crash test performance provide an extra layer of reassurance for families and safety-conscious drivers.
Come Test Drive The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder At Annapolis Nissan
Choosing between the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder and the 2024 Toyota Highlander ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. The Pathfinder excels in power, performance, and safety, making it a strong choice for those who need robust towing capabilities and top-tier crash protection. Meanwhile, the Highlander offers advanced infotainment options and strong overall reliability. Both SUVs are excellent choices, but if safety and performance are your top priorities, the Pathfinder might be the better fit.
Come test drive the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder at Annapolis Nissan, located at 2542 Riva Road, Annapolis, MD 21401. Experience the superior features and performance firsthand and see why the Pathfinder stands out in its class.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different trim levels available for the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder and 2024 Toyota Highlander?
The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder comes in several trims: S, SV, SL, Platinum, and Rock Creek. Each trim offers varying levels of features and luxury, with the Platinum trim being the most upscale and the Rock Creek focusing on off-road capabilities.
The 2024 Toyota Highlander also offers multiple trims: L, LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum. These trims range from the basic L to the fully equipped Platinum, with the XSE adding sporty elements.
How does the fuel economy of the Pathfinder compare to the Highlander?
The Nissan Pathfinder achieves about 21 miles per gallon (MPG) in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. This makes it relatively efficient for its class, especially considering its powerful engine and towing capacity.
The Toyota Highlander offers slightly better fuel economy, with 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. This efficiency can be particularly beneficial for those who do a lot of highway driving.
What are the key safety features included in the 2024 Pathfinder and Highlander?
The Pathfinder is packed with safety features such as ProPILOT Assist, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These systems work together to enhance driver awareness and prevent accidents.
The Highlander includes Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which encompasses a pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and dynamic radar cruise control. These features provide comprehensive safety coverage, helping to avoid collisions and keep you safe on the road.
How much can each model tow?
The Nissan Pathfinder is a strong performer in towing, capable of handling up to 6,000 pounds. This makes it ideal for those who need to tow trailers, boats, or other heavy loads.
The Toyota Highlander can tow up to 5,000 pounds. While slightly less than the Pathfinder, this capacity is still ample for most family and recreational towing needs.
What kind of infotainment systems do the Pathfinder and Highlander offer?
The Pathfinder comes with an 8-inch touchscreen, with an option for a larger 9-inch screen on higher trims. It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration and features a Bose® Premium Audio System for high-quality sound.
The Highlander features an 8-inch touchscreen standard, with an available upgrade to a 12.3-inch screen. It also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a JBL® Premium Audio System known for its superior sound quality.
Are there any special off-road capabilities for either SUV?
The Pathfinder is designed for off-road adventures with its Intelligent 4x4 system and multiple drive modes, including Mud/Rut, Sand, Snow, Tow, Sport, and Eco. These modes help the vehicle adapt to various terrains and conditions.
The Highlander, while not as rugged as the Pathfinder, offers an available all-wheel-drive system and drive modes that enhance its stability and control on different surfaces.
What are the interior space and cargo capacity like for both vehicles?
The Pathfinder can seat up to eight passengers and offers up to 80.5 cubic feet of cargo space when the second and third rows are folded down. This spacious interior makes it a great choice for large families or those who need ample storage.
The Highlander also seats up to eight and provides slightly more cargo space, with up to 84.3 cubic feet available. This extra space can be useful for those who frequently carry a lot of gear or large items.
What is the warranty coverage for the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota Highlander?
Both the Pathfinder and the Highlander come with a standard 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. This coverage ensures that you are protected against major issues for a significant period after purchase.
Are there hybrid versions available for either model?
The Nissan Pathfinder does not offer a hybrid version. It focuses on traditional gasoline powertrains to deliver performance and capability.
The Toyota Highlander does offer a hybrid version. This option combines a gasoline engine with electric motors to provide better fuel efficiency and lower emissions, making it an attractive choice for environmentally conscious buyers.
What are the main differences in the driving experience between the two SUVs?
The Pathfinder offers a more powerful engine and greater towing capacity, making it suitable for those who need to haul heavy loads or venture off-road. Its Intelligent 4x4 system also enhances its versatility in different driving conditions.
The Highlander provides a smoother, more fuel-efficient ride, especially with the available hybrid option. Its advanced infotainment system with the larger touchscreen and superior JBL® audio system enhances the overall driving experience, making it a strong choice for everyday commuting and long trips.
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