2024 Volvo XC90 vs 2025 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2024 Volvo XC90, available in Canada in B6 and Recharge T8 models, showcased a blend of luxury and practicality. The B6 featured a turbocharged and supercharged mild-hybrid engine, while the Recharge T8 offered a plug-in hybrid system with an estimated 53 kilometres of electric-only range. Both models came standard with all-wheel drive and were available in Core, Plus, and Ultimate trims, with prices ranging from $71,550 to $94,500, excluding fees. The Ultimate trim, tested with seven-passenger seating, included premium features like massaging front seats, a high-end audio system, and a trailer hitch, bringing the MSRP to $107,709. The XC90's exterior was characterized by a subdued, earthy palette and various wheel designs, while the interior, though dated, was adorned with rich materials and offered customization options.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, tested in Rock Creek trim during a snowstorm, impressed with its rugged capabilities. Equipped with 3-Peak Mud-and-Snow-rated tires and standard all-wheel drive, it handled the conditions with ease. Redesigned in 2022, the Pathfinder featured an assertive front end and protective cladding, with the Rock Creek trim adding unique grille elements and LED lighting. A metal roof rack and exposed trailer hitch emphasized its adventurous nature. Inside, the Pathfinder offered a mix of leatherette and cloth upholstery, with heated front seats and a comfortable interior. Despite its rugged appearance, it remained a unibody crossover, lacking additional ground clearance or skid plates.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor with a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, producing 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. It offered 53 kilometres of electric-only range, though real-world testing showed 45 kilometres. The hybrid mode averaged 9.6 L/100 km, slightly above the predicted 8.9 L/100 km. The XC90's powertrain delivered impressive acceleration, but its handling was more luxury-oriented, with a firm ride and less agility on twisty roads.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower in most trims, with the Rock Creek trim offering 295 horsepower. A nine-speed automatic transmission replaced the previous CVT, providing smooth shifts. The Pathfinder's towing capacity reached 2,720 kilograms in higher trims. Its soft suspension suited bumpy roads but resulted in a floaty ride on twisty roads. Fuel economy was moderate, with the Rock Creek averaging 13.6 L/100 km. The Pathfinder's seven drive modes, including a dedicated snow mode, enhanced traction in various conditions.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 offered a well-equipped interior with power-adjustable and heated front seats, optional leather upholstery, and a four-zone climate control system. The panoramic glass roof added natural light, while higher trims included features like a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats. The XC90 seated seven, with a tight third-row access but decent cargo space, offering up to 2,426 litres with seats folded.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, though smaller than some rivals, provided ample interior space. It comfortably accommodated four adults on a ski trip, with 470 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,279 litres with seats folded. The Pathfinder featured three-zone climate control and comfortable seating, with the Rock Creek trim offering 10-way power adjustment for the driver. The EZ Flex Seating System allowed easy access to the third row without removing car seats.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in technology, offering Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM were standard, with premium audio options available. The infotainment system was intuitive, though the digital instrumentation panel required some learning.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder's infotainment system lagged behind competitors, with an 8-inch screen in lower trims and a 9-inch screen in higher trims. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless projection for Apple devices on the larger screen. A 6-speaker stereo was standard, with a 13-speaker Bose system in the Platinum trim. Navigation was limited to higher trims, and the Pathfinder lacked some advanced tech features found in rivals.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 earned high safety ratings, with a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. It included standard safety features but lacked innovative ADAS. Pilot Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centring, had limitations, particularly on highway exits.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder also received a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating. It came with a comprehensive suite of ADAS, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and ProPilot Assist, enhancing safety across all trims.