2025 Mazda CX-90 vs 2025 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was available in three variants: the 3.3 Turbo, the 3.3 Turbo S, and the PHEV. Trim levels ranged from Select to Premium Plus, with pricing between $39,575 and $59,480. Our test vehicle, a 3.3 Turbo with Premium Plus trim and Soul Red paint, had an MSRP of $51,450. The CX-90's exterior boasted lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels, giving it a luxury SUV appearance. Its sculptural sheet metal and athletic design contributed to its sophisticated look. Inside, the CX-90 featured an upscale interior with polished metallic trim and Nappa leather, though some materials reflected its competitive pricing. Ergonomic issues, such as a confusing electronic shifter and counterintuitive climate controls, were noted, but overall, the CX-90 exuded sophistication compared to other midsize three-row SUVs.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, tested in Rock Creek trim, was equipped with 3-Peak Mud-and-Snow-rated Toyo Open Country AT3 tires, standard AWD, and seven selectable driving modes, including snow mode. Its adventurous look was complemented by 18-inch beadlock-style wheels. Redesigned for 2022, the Pathfinder featured an assertive front end, protective cladding, and a stylish C-pillar. The Rock Creek trim added a V-Motion grille with mesh pattern and contrasting trim, stacked LED lighting, and a metal roof rack. Despite its rugged appearance, the Pathfinder was a unibody crossover with no additional ground clearance or skid plates. Inside, the Rock Creek offered leatherette-and-cloth upholstery with bright orange logos, while higher trims featured leather and quilted semi-aniline leather. The Pathfinder's interior was comfortable, though not cutting-edge in terms of technology.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo's drivetrain was less refined than its design and materials. The turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine produced 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, while the Turbo S variant delivered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft. Power was channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD, with a rear-wheel bias for improved dynamics. The CX-90 offered Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. Despite its impressive ride and handling, the drivetrain lacked refinement, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behavior. Noise and impact harshness were also issues, detracting from the upscale impression. However, the CX-90's taut suspension provided a dynamic driving experience, especially in Normal mode.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder featured a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet 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 and unobtrusive operation. The Pathfinder's maximum towing capacity was 6,000 pounds with the transmission oil cooler, available on Platinum and Rock Creek trims. The Pathfinder's soft suspension provided a comfortable ride but lacked composure on twisty roads. Fuel economy for the Rock Creek was 20 mpg city, 23 highway, and 21 combined. The Pathfinder offered seven drive modes, including snow mode, which effectively managed traction in challenging conditions.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel in the 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus trim. However, the three-zone climate control system struggled to cool the cabin efficiently. The panoramic sunroof provided natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed comfortable seating. The third row was best suited for children, and the CX-90's cargo space was limited, with 14.9 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 74.2 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage options were minimal, with a focus on style over practicality.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder offered ample interior space, despite having less cargo capacity than some competitors. During a ski trip with four adults, the Pathfinder accommodated skis, luggage, and groceries comfortably. Cargo space measured 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 80.5 cubic feet with seats folded. The Pathfinder featured three-zone climate control and comfortable seating, 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 car seats.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, though the latter was touch-sensitive only with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The native Mazda Connect platform required using a knob and buttons, which took time to get used to. The voice recognition system was not up to modern standards, but a new Google Built-in infotainment system was expected in future models. The test vehicle included a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display with helpful data, including blind-spot alerts.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder's technology lagged behind competitors and even some other Nissan models. The infotainment system featured an older interface, with screen sizes of 8 inches in lower trims and 9 inches in SL and Platinum trims. The Pathfinder supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but wireless projection was limited to Apple devices on the 9-inch screen. A 6-speaker stereo was standard, with a 13-speaker Bose system available on higher trims. Voice recognition, Bluetooth connectivity, and SiriusXM satellite radio were standard, while navigation was limited to SL and Platinum trims. A 12.3-inch driver-information display and head-up display were exclusive to the Platinum trim.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests, with a four-star rollover resistance rating. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. Higher trims added steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, front cross-traffic alert, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids were effective, though the audible warning systems could be overwhelming.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder also earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four stars in frontal crash testing and rollover evaluation. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and rear automatic braking. Adaptive cruise control and ProPilot Assist were standard on all but the base S trim, while traffic sign recognition was available on SL and Platinum trims.