2024 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 2023 Toyota Highlander

Nissan and Toyota make some of the most popular family crossovers and you may be wondering which of the three-row Nissan vs. Toyota models is best for your San Pablo family. The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 2023 Toyota Highlander is a common comparison among SUV shoppers in need of a three-row crossover. Each of these Toyota vs. Nissan SUVs offers distinct capabilities for Berkeley roads. Fortunately, the experts at Hanlees Hilltop Nissan have put together this 2024 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 2023 Toyota Highlander comparison so you can see which rig best matches your lifestyle.

Nissan vs. Toyota: Pathfinder vs. Highlander Price & Trims

Budget is one of the most important considerations when looking for a family-friendly hauler. The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder has a $800 price advantage over the 2023 Toyota Highlander. The entry-level 2024 Nissan Pathfinder S with 2WD starts at $35,810 MSRP*, undercutting the 2023 Toyota Highlander L FWD and its base price of $36,620 MSRP. 

With available 4WD, the Pathfinder is a true Nissan SUV whereas the Toyota Highlander can only be upgraded to AWD. The Nissan SUV’s available 4WD offers more stability in low traction environments. The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder S with 4WD starts at $37,710 MSRP*, while the base model 2023 Toyota Highlander L with AWD added costs $38,220 MSRP.

Nissan vs. Toyota: Pathfinder vs. Highlander Performance

When comparing Nissan vs. Toyota engines, the Nissan SUV features a more powerful V6 engine compared to the Toyota crossover’s 4-cylinder engine. The stronger engine in the Nissan SUV also allows you to two 1,000 pounds more than the Toyota crossover, which allows it to tow your camper or fishing boat more easily. Compare the engine performance and capabilities of the Nissan vs. Toyota below:

Nissan Pathfinder S Specs:

• 3.5L Direct Injection DOHC 24-valve V6 engine
• 9-speed automatic transmission with Manual Mode
• 2WD standard, 4WD available
• 284 hp, 259 lb-ft of torque
• Up to 6,000-pound towing capacity

Toyota Highlander L Specs:

• 2.4L turbo 4-cylinder engine
• Direct Shift-8AT 8-speed Electronically Controlled automatic Transmission (ECT)
• FWD standard, AWD available
• 265 hp 310 lb-ft of torque
• Up to 5,000-pound towing capacity

When comparing Nissan vs. Toyota, you’ll see that the Nissan SUV offers one more gear in its automatic transmission, which allows for better fuel economy and performance.

Nissan vs. Toyota: Pathfinder vs. Highlander Interior Features

Both of these three-row family-friendly vehicles offer seating for up to eight passengers. However, the Nissan SUV features 148.5 cubic feet of passenger space compared to just 141.8 cubic feet of passenger volume in its Toyota competitor. While this means the Highlander has a small cargo room advantage behind the third row, the Pathfinder delivers a more well-rounded interior package to meet your needs. See below:

Nissan Pathfinder interior

• Available 2nd-row captain’s chairs
• Available 2nd-row center console
• Climate-controlled front seats
• Available Panoramic moonroof
• Tri-zone automatic temperature control
• EZ FLEX® 2nd-row seating system
• Available driver’s memory settings
• Available remote engine start system
• Motion activated liftgate
• Cargo-area under-floor storage
• Available 12.3-inch widescreen featuring digital gauges
• Available head-up display 
• Wireless charging
• Sound reduction

Find Your Next Nissan SUV at Hanlees Hilltop Nissan

Now that you’ve compared the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder vs. the 2023 Toyota Highlander, it’s time to experience this Nissan SUV in person at Hanlees Hilltop Nissan near El Cerrito. Contact us to schedule your test drive of a new Nissan Pathfinder or head on down to our Richmond dealership and one of our sales representatives will be eager to assist you. You can save on your next Nissan SUV with our great selection of new vehicle specials as well as offers and incentives.