2024 Lexus TX vs 2025 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. It presented an upscale appearance, contrasting with the Grand Highlander's resemblance to a larger RAV4. The test model featured striking 22-inch silver wheels, part of the TX 350 Executive packages, enhancing its visual appeal. The TX's design was more subdued compared to other Lexus models, offering a conservative style that might appeal to those previously put off by Lexus's bold designs. The TX lineup included the TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid models, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486, though the TX 550h+ was not yet available. The TX 350, likely the most popular version, came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, with options for Ultra Luxury or Executive packages in Canada. The interior, while dark, was luxurious enough to bear the Lexus badge, featuring premium materials and a panoramic glass sunroof.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder was tested during a significant snowstorm, showcasing its capability in adverse conditions. Equipped with 3-Peak Mud-and-Snow-rated Toyo Open Country AT3 tires and standard all-wheel drive, the Pathfinder handled the snow with ease. The Rock Creek trim, with its adventurous look, featured 18-inch beadlock-style wheels and a V-Motion grille with contrasting trim. Redesigned for 2022, the Pathfinder offered various trims, with the Rock Creek standing out for its rugged appearance. Despite its tough look, the Pathfinder was a unibody crossover, lacking additional ground clearance or protective skid plates. Inside, the Rock Creek featured leatherette-and-cloth upholstery with bright orange "Rock Creek" logos. The Pathfinder's interior was comfortable, with heated front seats and a moonroof available on higher trims. While the Rock Creek's vibrant stitching received mixed reactions, the overall interior quality was solid, if not luxurious.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Lexus claimed it could accelerate to 100 km/h in about eight seconds, though it felt quicker due to its torque delivery. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, slightly better than the previous RX L model. During testing, it averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm yet comfortable suspension and accurate steering. The interior was quiet on the highway, though the brake pedal felt soft but manageable.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine, with power output varying by trim. The Rock Creek trim offered 295 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, while other trims had 284 hp and 259 lb-ft. The Pathfinder's nine-speed automatic transmission provided smooth shifts, and the Rock Creek's towing capacity was 2,720 kilograms, thanks to a transmission oil cooler. The Pathfinder's suspension was soft, suitable for light off-roading but less composed on twisty roads. Fuel economy for the Rock Creek was 11.9 L/100 km city, 10.0 highway, and 11.1 combined, with an average of 13.6 L/100 km during testing. The Pathfinder offered seven drive modes, including a snow mode, which proved effective in snowy conditions.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered a comfortable interior with premium materials, though the front seats lacked a massage function. The second-row seat was less welcoming due to its flat cushion, but the third-row seat was habitable for adults. The TX provided 572 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third row folded and 2,746 litres with the second row down. Storage options were plentiful, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, while smaller than some competitors, offered ample interior space. During a ski trip with four adults, it accommodated skis, luggage, and groceries comfortably. Cargo space measured 470 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,274 litres with the third row folded and 2,279 litres with both rows down. The Pathfinder featured three-zone climate control and comfortable seats, with the Rock Creek trim offering 10-way power adjustment for the driver's seat. The EZ Flex Seating System allowed easy access to the third row without removing car seats.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a digital rearview mirror, with additional tech available in the Executive packages. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Drive Connect, a subscription service, provided cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX also included free subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, with Remote Connect available for three years. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system delivered impressive sound quality.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder's tech was less impressive, with an older interface compared to other Nissans. The infotainment system featured an 8-inch screen on lower trims and a 9-inch screen on higher trims, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. The Platinum trim offered a 13-speaker Bose system and a 12.3-inch driver-information display. Voice recognition, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM were standard, though navigation was only available on higher trims. The Pathfinder's tech felt dated compared to competitors.

The 2024 Lexus TX came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Proactive Drive Assist was included, though it was not always smooth. Additional safety features were available in the Executive packages, including traffic jam assist for low-speed hands-free driving. Overall, LSS+ 3.0 was effective, though it could be overly cautious in certain situations.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder received a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with a comprehensive suite of ADAS, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and ProPilot Assist. Traffic sign recognition was available on higher trims.