2024 Lexus TX vs 2025 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander but distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. It presented an upscale appearance, especially with the Luxury trim's 22-inch silver wheels, enhancing its presence. The styling was more conservative than other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a toned-down design. The TX came in three series: TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices ranging from $55,050 to $69,350. The TX 350, likely the most popular, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with options for FWD or AWD. The interior, though dark, felt luxurious with premium materials, and the cabin was equipped with various packages enhancing its technology and comfort.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, tested in snowy conditions near Mount Rainier, showcased its capability with the Rock Creek trim. Equipped with Mud-and-Snow-rated tires and AWD, it handled the terrain effectively. Redesigned in 2022, the Pathfinder offered trims from S to Platinum, with the Rock Creek standing out for its adventurous look. It featured a V-Motion grille, LED lighting, and a metal roof rack. Despite its rugged appearance, it was a unibody crossover, lacking additional ground clearance or skid plates. Inside, the Rock Creek had leatherette-and-cloth upholstery with bright orange logos, and while the interior was comfortable, it lacked cutting-edge technology.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in eight seconds, or 7.8 seconds with AWD. The performance was adequate, with a combined fuel economy of 23 mpg for the FWD model, though testing showed 20.4 mpg. The AWD option, costing $1,600, offered better traction. The ride was comfortable, with commendable body motion control and quiet highway driving. However, the brake pedal felt too soft in the pre-production test vehicle.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine, with the Rock Creek trim producing 295 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. Despite the higher output, the performance was similar across trims due to the all-terrain tires. A nine-speed automatic transmission provided smooth shifts, and the Rock Creek's towing capacity reached 6,000 pounds with a transmission oil cooler. The ride was soft, suitable for light off-roading but less composed on twisty roads. Fuel economy for the Rock Creek was 20 mpg city, 23 highway, and 21 combined, with 20.8 mpg observed during testing. The Pathfinder offered seven drive modes and hill-descent control, effectively managing traction in snowy conditions.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered a comfortable interior with premium materials and heated seats. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, unlike previous models. Cargo space was 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with seats folded. However, second-row legroom was limited when accommodating third-row passengers. Storage options were plentiful but lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, though smaller than some competitors, provided ample space for a ski trip with four adults. Cargo capacity was 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 80.5 cubic feet with seats folded. The Rock Creek trim featured captain’s chairs and a removable center console. The EZ Flex Seating System allowed easy access to the third row without removing car seats. The Pathfinder's interior was comfortable, with three-zone climate control and adjustable seating.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a Technology Package with a 12.3-inch digital panel, head-up display, and more. However, the unmarked steering wheel controls were distracting, especially with polarized sunglasses. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included a 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Subscriptions like Drive Connect and Safety Connect enhanced connectivity and safety. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson system offered impressive audio quality.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder lagged in technology compared to competitors. It featured an older interface with smaller screens (8 or 9 inches). The SL and Platinum trims offered a 13-speaker Bose system and navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were supported, but wireless projection was limited. The Pathfinder included voice recognition, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM, but lacked advanced features like a head-up display on lower trims.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and more. Proactive Drive Assist added braking and steering assistance but was not always transparent. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring and traffic jam assist, though the latter was limited to low speeds.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating. It included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control and ProPilot Assist were standard on most trims, with traffic sign recognition available on higher trims.