Nissan Pathfinder vs. Nissan Xterra: Everything You Need To Know
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If you’re in the market for a new family SUV, there’s a good chance you’re having a hard time choosing. No thanks to the sheer number of SUV models and market segments. Even if you’re choosing between Nissan SUVs, you’ve got some tricky options. Two of the most prominent Nissan SUVs are the Pathfinder and Xterra.
Nissan Pathfinder vs. Nissan Xterra, which truck-based SUV should you choose?
For this Nissan Pathfinder vs. Nissan Xterra head-to-head, we’ll compare the 2021 Pathfinder and 2015 Xterra (the last model before discontinuation). Let’s get to it.
Exterior Features
The 2022 Pathfinder is a redesign year. Nissan retained the same exterior proportions but reimagined a few classic design cues from the original 1987 Pathfinder. Now, the SUV looks more like a truck with a covered cab. The signature V-motion grille and standard LED headlights make for a striking front, while the slim taillights and floating roof keep things modern.
The Pathfinder rides on 18-inch alloys or 20-inch wheels but only for the top trim, Platinum. All Pathfinder editions have LED headlights and taillights, with standard LED fog lights for SL and Platinum editions. Only the priciest Platinum trim features the popular sunroof.
Meanwhile, the 2015 Xterra was built to go on off-road adventures. Its buff and boxy exterior highlights its rough and tumble nature. The bulging fenders and high stance make sense here, and the oversized off-road tires and hanging spare add to the striking look.
The Xterra may be an older SUV model, but it has a style that stands out. Standard exterior features include 16-inch steel wheels, rear bumper steps, rear privacy glass, etc. The Xterra also has a heavily raked front windshield that gives you a good road view.
WINNER: The Pathfinder has a more modern SUV exterior, but the Xterra’s styling still holds up today.
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Performance and Fuel Economy
All 2015 Xterra comes with a 4.0L V6 engine with 261 hp and 281 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with either a five-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission. In addition, all Xterra trims come with rear-wheel drive and an available 4x4 drivetrain in the PRO-4X model.
The Xterra generally drives like a truck with decent acceleration and motor output. The Xterra offers better handling and body control than you might expect, given the tall body and truck-derived qualities. Maximum towing capacity is rated at 5,000 lbs across all trims.
Meanwhile, the 2022 Pathfinder uses the same 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine from last year, but it’s now paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission. The engine produces 284 hp and 259 lb-ft of torque and can accelerate to 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds. All Pathfinder models have standard front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel.
If you’re planning to do a lot of hauling, the Pathfinder is your best bet with its 6,000 lbs maximum towing capacity when fully equipped. With Nissan’s “Intelligent 4WD,” you’ll have access to several driving modes like Standard, Sport, Snow, Mud, etc.
The 2015 Xterra has an estimated EPA rating of 16/22/18 mpg city/highway/combined for the FWD model and 16/20/17 mpg for the 4x4 variant. Conversely, the FWD Pathfinder has EPA ratings of 21/26/23 mpg city/highway/combined, and the AWD model at 21/27/23 mpg.
WINNER: The Nissan Pathfinder wins in performance and fuel economy, no contest.
Interior and Cargo Space
As an older and discontinued model, the Xterra has a relatively dated interior. The cabin design is very straightforward but functional and was designed for the rough and tumble purpose of the Xterra. Hard but easy-to-clean surfaces, basic cloth upholstery, and extra storage spaces further solidify that the Xterra is all about that outdoor business.
The Xterra has a fairly spacious cabin but is far from comfortable. While there’s plenty of passenger room up front, the rear seats aren’t as tall, so it can be uncomfortable for grown adults. Plus, the seats aren’t that supportive, which can be bad during long trips. Behind the rear seats is a 36.3 cu-ft of space that expands to 65.7 cubes by folding the second-row seats.
In comparison, the Pathfinder boasts an updated cabin design, complete with modern amenities. The infotainment screen is large enough for good visibility, and the controls are thoughtfully laid out. The already upscale cabin becomes even better with semi-aniline leather and diamond contrast stitching with the top Platinum edition.
The Pathfinder offers best-in-class front legroom at 44.3 inches, beating segment rivals like the Telluride and Palisade. Unlike the Xterra, the Pathfinder seats up to eight passengers and down to seven people with second-row captain chairs. Rear seats have smaller room and easily slip forward with a push of a button to access the third row.
Behind the third row, there’s 16.6 cu-ft of room for luggage and gear. By folding the second-row seats, the cargo room opens up to 45 cu-ft and further expands to 80.5 cubes with both second and third-row seats folded. Nissan added more storage versatility by including 16 cupholders, door pockets, and a storage console below the gear shifter.
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Infotainment and Safety Features
The Pathfinder’s standard 8.0-inch touchscreen display is front and center with an available 9.0-inch touchscreen. Although NissanConnect powers both systems, only the larger 9-inch screen comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. Fancier tech like the 12.3-inch widescreen digital gauge and heads-up display are also available as add-ons.
The Pathfinder receives a 5-star rating from the NHTSA while mainly receiving “Good” safety scores from the IIHS. It comes with a standard Safety Shield 360 suite, including lane departure warning, high beam assist, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot warning, etc.
Being an older model, in-car entertainment for the 2015 Xterra is rather barebones in comparison. Standard in-car entertainment and connectivity features include USB connection, AM/FM radio, satellite radio, and a nine-speaker system.
Meanwhile, the 2015 Xterra was not rated by the NHTSA but received some “Good” safety scores from the IIHS, except for Roof strength and Head restraints & seats categories. Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, airbags, pretensioners, and anti-whiplash head restraints.
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Nissan Pathfinder vs. Nissan Xterra: The Verdict
Let’s wrap up this Nissan Pathfinder vs. Nissan Xterra head-to-head comparison with each vehicle’s pricing. The base 2022 Pathfinder starts at $33,410, while a used 2015 Nissan Xterra may cost you around $18,081-$25,478, according to US News.
The Pathfinder beats the Xterra in just about every category, which is understandable since it compares a modern SUV and a discontinued model. The Xterra remains a good, dependable vehicle, especially if you’re into off-road adventures.
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