Tacoma vs. pathfinder: adventure-ready rigs compared
What To Know
- When it comes to midsize pickup trucks and SUVs, the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Pathfinder are two of the most popular choices on the market.
- The Nissan Pathfinder is a better option if you prefer a more refined and spacious interior, better fuel economy, and a lower starting price.
- The Nissan Pathfinder has a larger cargo area and more headroom and legroom than the Toyota Tacoma.
When it comes to midsize pickup trucks and SUVs, the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Pathfinder are two of the most popular choices on the market. Both vehicles offer a rugged exterior, spacious interior, and impressive performance capabilities. But which one is right for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Toyota Tacoma vs Nissan Pathfinder head-to-head to help you make an informed decision.
Exterior Design
The Toyota Tacoma exudes a rugged and muscular stance with its chiseled lines and prominent grille. Its angular design is complemented by sharp headlights and a bold hood. In contrast, the Nissan Pathfinder presents a more refined and aerodynamic profile. Its flowing lines, sleek headlights, and sloping roofline give it a sporty and sophisticated appearance.
Interior Comfort and Features
Inside, the Tacoma offers a spacious and well-equipped cabin. The seats are supportive, and there’s plenty of headroom and legroom for all occupants. The Pathfinder’s interior is equally spacious and comfortable, with high-quality materials and intuitive controls. It also boasts a larger cargo area than the Tacoma, making it more suitable for hauling large items.
Engine Performance
The Tacoma is available with a range of engine options, including a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder, a 3.5-liter V6, and a 3.5-liter V6 with a supercharger. The Pathfinder, on the other hand, comes with a single 3.5-liter V6 engine. While the Pathfinder’s engine produces slightly more horsepower, the Tacoma’s supercharged V6 offers impressive torque and towing capabilities.
Off-Road Capabilities
If off-roading is your priority, the Tacoma is the clear winner. Its rugged construction, available four-wheel drive system, and locking rear differential make it capable of tackling even the most challenging trails. The Pathfinder, while not as capable as the Tacoma, still offers decent off-road performance with its four-wheel drive system and hill-descent control.
Safety Features
Both the Tacoma and Pathfinder come with a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Tacoma includes Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Pathfinder features Nissan Safety Shield 360, which offers similar features as well as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The Tacoma’s towing capacity ranges from 3,500 to 6,800 pounds, depending on the engine and configuration. Its payload capacity ranges from 1,150 to 1,685 pounds. The Pathfinder’s towing capacity is slightly lower, at 6,000 pounds, but its payload capacity is higher, at 1,350 pounds.
Price and Value
The Toyota Tacoma has a starting price of around $27,000, while the Nissan Pathfinder starts at around $34,000. However, the Tacoma offers a wider range of trim levels and configurations, allowing you to customize your vehicle to your specific needs and budget.
Which is Right for You?
The Toyota Tacoma is the better choice if you prioritize off-road capabilities, towing capacity, and rugged design. The Nissan Pathfinder is a better option if you prefer a more refined and spacious interior, better fuel economy, and a lower starting price.
Recommendations: The Verdict
Both the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Pathfinder are excellent choices in the midsize truck and SUV segment. The Tacoma is the ideal choice for adventure-seekers and those who need a vehicle that can handle tough terrain. The Pathfinder is a better option for those who prioritize comfort, space, and fuel efficiency. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which vehicle has a better towing capacity?
A: The Toyota Tacoma has a higher towing capacity than the Nissan Pathfinder.
Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: The Nissan Pathfinder has a larger cargo area and more headroom and legroom than the Toyota Tacoma.
Q: Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Nissan Pathfinder has better fuel economy than the Toyota Tacoma.
Q: Which vehicle has more off-road capabilities?
A: The Toyota Tacoma has better off-road capabilities than the Nissan Pathfinder.
Q: Which vehicle has a lower starting price?
A: The Toyota Tacoma has a lower starting price than the Nissan Pathfinder.