2024 Mazda CX-30 vs 2025 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 was designed with a distinctive aesthetic that set it apart from typical cars, featuring an abundance of charcoal-colored plastic on the lower body. While some found this excessive, the overall design was appealing, with short overhangs, a long hood, and a sleek roofline. The interior of the CX-30 was reminiscent of a luxury SUV, boasting style and refinement with clear gauges, a well-integrated infotainment screen, and artistic climate controls. The model lineup included eight versions, with the 2.5 S models offering a 191-horsepower engine and the 2.5 Turbo models providing up to 250 horsepower. Prices ranged from $24,995 to $36,800, plus a destination charge.

In contrast, the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, particularly in Rock Creek trim, was tested in snowy conditions near Mount Rainier National Park. Equipped with 3-Peak Mud-and-Snow-rated tires and standard all-wheel drive, it handled the terrain with ease. Redesigned for 2022, the Pathfinder featured an assertive front end and protective cladding, with the Rock Creek trim adding a mesh-patterned grille and stacked LED lights. The interior offered a mix of cloth and leatherette upholstery, with heated seats available in higher trims. Despite its rugged appearance, the Pathfinder was a unibody crossover, lacking additional ground clearance or skid plates, but it provided ample space and comfort for passengers.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, with its turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, delivered 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque, offering a smooth power delivery rather than a sudden burst of speed. The six-speed automatic transmission provided flawless shifting, and the standard all-wheel drive enhanced its sporty handling. However, fuel economy was a downside, with an observed 21.3 mpg, and the small fuel tank limited its range. Despite this, the CX-30 was fun to drive, offering excellent visibility and a firm, connected ride.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower in most trims and 295 horsepower in the Rock Creek trim. The nine-speed automatic transmission replaced the previous CVT, offering smooth shifts and a towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds with the right equipment. The Pathfinder's soft suspension provided a comfortable ride on bumpy roads but felt floaty on twisty roads. Fuel economy was moderate, with the Rock Creek trim averaging 20.8 mpg. The Pathfinder offered seven drive modes and hill-descent control, with snow mode proving effective in snowy conditions.

Inside the 2024 Mazda CX-30, quality materials and logical controls were evident, with a three-gauge digital instrumentation setup and a traditional shifter. The interior was cramped, especially in the back seat, but the front seats were comfortable and heated. Cargo space was limited, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the back seat and 45.2 cubic feet with the seats folded, offering practical but not generous storage.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, while smaller than some competitors, provided ample interior space. During a ski trip, it comfortably accommodated four adults and their gear. Cargo space measured 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 45 cubic feet with the third row folded and 80.5 cubic feet with both rows down. The Pathfinder offered three-zone climate control and comfortable seating, with the Rock Creek trim featuring 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 2024 Mazda CX-30's turbocharged versions featured a new 10.25-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the screen's distance from the driver and lack of natural voice recognition were drawbacks. Mazda Connected Services and in-vehicle Wi-Fi were available, with USB-C ports and a Bose audio system in higher trims.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder's technology lagged behind some competitors, with an older interface and smaller screens. The 8-inch screen was standard on lower trims, while the SL and Platinum trims had a 9-inch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay. A 6-speaker stereo was standard, with a 13-speaker Bose system available on higher trims. Navigation was limited to the SL and Platinum trims, and a head-up display was exclusive to the Platinum.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera system. The CX-30 received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder also received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with advanced driver assistance systems, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control and ProPilot Assist were available on higher trims, with traffic sign recognition standard on the SL and Platinum.