2024 Volvo XC90 vs 2025 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was available in three model series: B5, B6, and Recharge T8, each equipped with a turbocharged mild-hybrid four-cylinder engine. The B6 model added a supercharger for enhanced performance, while the Recharge T8 was a plug-in hybrid offering the highest performance and efficiency, with an estimated 32 miles of electric-only range. All models came standard with all-wheel drive (AWD). The XC90 was offered in Core, Plus, and Ultimate trim levels, with prices ranging from $56,000 to $79,600, excluding the destination charge. The Recharge T8 in Ultimate trim featured luxurious amenities such as massaging front seats, a premium audio system, and a trailer hitch, with an MSRP of $89,145. The XC90's exterior was characterized by a subdued and earthy color palette, with various wheel designs up to 21 inches in diameter. The interior, though dated, was fitted with rich materials, including wool-blend upholstery or ventilated Nappa leather, and featured a crystal shift knob and natural wood trim.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, tested in Rock Creek trim, was equipped with 3-Peak Mud-and-Snow-rated tires, standard AWD, and seven selectable driving modes, including a dedicated snow mode. Redesigned for the 2022 model year, the Pathfinder featured an assertive front end, protective cladding, and a stylish C-pillar. The Rock Creek trim boasted a V-Motion grille with mesh pattern and contrasting trim, stacked LED lighting, and a metal roof rack with a 220-pound capacity. Despite its rugged appearance, the Pathfinder was a unibody crossover with no additional ground clearance or protective skid plates. Inside, the Rock Creek trim featured leatherette-and-cloth upholstery with bright orange logos, while higher trims offered full leather or quilted semi-aniline leather. The Pathfinder's interior was comfortable, with a focus on practicality, though it lacked cutting-edge technology.

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-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. This power was delivered to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90 offered 32 miles of electric-only driving and averaged 27 mpg in hybrid mode. In Power mode, it accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in five seconds. Recharging took about 12 hours with a standard outlet, or less than half that time with a 240-volt outlet. The XC90 featured multiple driving modes, including Pure, Power, Hybrid, and Off-Road, with up to 9.9 inches of ground clearance. However, the XC90's electric performance waned as the battery approached its minimum charge, and the ride quality was firm on irregular pavement.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque in most trims, while the Rock Creek trim offered 295 hp and 270 lb-ft. A nine-speed automatic transmission replaced the previous CVT, providing decisive shifts. The Pathfinder's maximum towing capacity was 6,000 pounds with the transmission oil cooler, standard on Platinum and Rock Creek trims. The Pathfinder's soft suspension provided a comfortable ride on bumpy roads but felt floaty on twisty roads. The Rock Creek trim was best suited for light off-roading. Fuel economy for the Rock Creek was 20 mpg city, 23 highway, and 21 combined. The Pathfinder featured seven drive modes and hill-descent control, with snow mode providing necessary traction in snowy conditions.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8, even in Core trim, was well-equipped with power-adjustable and heated front seats, leather upholstery, wood trim, and a four-zone climate control system. The panoramic glass roof added natural light, and higher trims offered additional features like a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and an integrated booster child seat. The XC90 seated seven or six with captain's chairs, with a comfortable bench seat in the second row. Interior storage was adequate, and cargo capacity was up to 85.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, though smaller than some competitors, provided ample interior space. During a ski trip with four adults, it accommodated skis, luggage, and groceries comfortably. Cargo space was 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 45 cubic feet with it folded, and 80.5 cubic feet with both rows down. The Pathfinder featured three-zone climate control and comfortable seats, with 10-way power adjustment for the Rock Creek's driver seat. The Rock Creek trim included captain's chairs and a removable center console, while the EZ Flex Seating System allowed easy access to the third row without removing a car seat.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in technology, including Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM satellite radio were standard, with premium audio options available. The system was intuitive, with a stereo volume knob and radio tuning buttons. The XC90 also included a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and optional head-up display and surround-view camera.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder's infotainment system was less impressive, with an 8-inch screen in lower trims and a 9-inch screen in higher trims. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless projection for Apple devices on the 9-inch screen. A 6-speaker stereo was standard, with a 13-speaker Bose system available on higher trims. The Pathfinder included voice recognition, Bluetooth connectivity, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Navigation was standard only on SL and Platinum trims, with a 12.3-inch driver-information display and head-up display exclusive to the Platinum trim.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was known for its safety, with a five-star rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. However, its advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were not as innovative as some rivals. The XC90 included Pilot Assist, which paired adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist, but it struggled with certain road conditions and made a significant error during testing.

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