You might not know that the Nissan Pathfinder’s midsize SUV rivals have evolved significantly since its launch. Cars like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander offer similar versatility and reliability.
If you’re considering substitutes, models like the Subaru Ascent and Ford Expedition provide spacious interiors and advanced tech. With so many options, which one will best fit your needs?
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Key Takeaways
- The 2019 Chevrolet Traverse offers comparable seating and towing capacity to the Nissan Pathfinder.
- The 2019 Honda Pilot matches the Pathfinder’s towing capacity and provides flexible seating.
- The 2019 Toyota Highlander is a reliable choice with a spacious interior and ample cargo space.
- The 2019 Ford Explorer offers robust tech features and seating flexibility similar to the Pathfinder.
- The 2020 Kia Telluride provides modern amenities and comparable towing capacity to the Pathfinder.
2019 Subaru Ascent
If versatility is what you seek in a family SUV, the Subaru Ascent stands out among cars similar to the Nissan Pathfinder. It offers seating for up to eight passengers, making it ideal for larger families.
The Ascent features a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, which provides less horsepower than the Pathfinder’s 3.5-liter V6 but offers superior off-road capabilities. Unlike the Toyota Highlander, the Ascent includes all-wheel drive as a standard feature, enhancing its traction and stability.
This makes it a strong competitor in the midsize SUV segment.
2019 Chevrolet Traverse
When considering the Chevrolet Traverse as an alternative to the Nissan Pathfinder, you’ll notice it offers a more luxurious interior with premium materials and advanced tech features.
The Traverse is powered by a standard V6 engine, providing a balance of power and fuel efficiency—ideal for those seeking both performance and economy.
In terms of interior space, the Traverse offers ample room for passengers, with a focus on second-row legroom and cargo capacity that rivals the Pathfinder.
Interior Space
The Chevrolet Traverse is renowned for its spacious interior, which makes it an excellent alternative to vehicles like the Nissan Pathfinder.
Its base model offers seating for up to eight passengers, although optional captain’s chairs reduce this to seven.
Cargo space is generous, with 23.0 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 98.2 cubic feet with the seats folded.
This versatility and spaciousness make the Traverse a compelling choice for those seeking ample interior space and comfort.
Engine Power
Powering the Chevrolet Traverse, especially in its latest models, is a dynamic shift in engine technology. Its standard 3.6-liter V6 engine produces 310 horsepower, offering strong acceleration.
For performance comparisons, the Traverse’s power is significantly higher than the Nissan Pathfinder’s base 284 horsepower. Engine specifications like a nine-speed automatic transmission improve efficiency and power delivery.
The Traverse’s all-wheel drive capability and towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds make it a strong contender in terms of engine power ratings.
2020 Kia Telluride
Among the options for buyers seeking a three-row midsize SUV like the Nissan Pathfinder, the Kia Telluride quickly stands out as a strong contender. The Telluride offers spacious seating for up to eight passengers, modern amenities, and a value-oriented price point. It features an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen and advanced safety technologies, making it appealing in Kia Telluride reviews and comparisons.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Seating | Up to 8 passengers |
| Drive System | Front-wheel or all-wheel drive |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 pounds |
2019 Dodge Durango
If you’re looking for a midsize SUV with robust capabilities similar to the Nissan Pathfinder, the Dodge Durango is definitely worth considering.
It offers seating for up to seven passengers and a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds, surpassing the Pathfinder’s 6,000 pounds.
The Durango features a cargo space of 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 85.1 cubic feet with seats folded.
Available in several Durango trims, it offers a range of features.
In a Durango comparison, its power and space make it a strong contender.
2019 Honda Pilot
You’ll find the Honda Pilot stands out with its Honda Sensing safety suite standard across all trims, keeping you protected with automated driver aids.
It’s designed to fit up to eight passengers, offering flexible seating and a spacious interior for family trips.
Its powertrain delivers dependable performance and solid fuel efficiency, handling daily drives and adventures with confidence.
Honda Sensing Suite
The 2019 Honda Pilot is equipped with the Honda Sensing Suite, a comprehensive set of safety features that significantly boosts driver awareness and vehicle safety.
This suite includes driver assistance technologies like adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking, lane keeping assist, and road departure mitigation.
These features work together to improve collision prevention by monitoring the vehicle’s surroundings using advanced sensors and cameras.
With Honda Sensing, you get real-time alerts to help prevent accidents, making the Pilot a strong choice for those seeking robust safety features.
Seating and Flexibility
When considering seating and flexibility in a mid-size SUV, the 2019 Honda Pilot stands out for its adaptability and spacious interior.
It offers seating arrangements for up to eight passengers, with optional second-row captain’s chairs enhancing comfort and accessibility.
The Pilot’s cargo versatility is notable, with a maximum cargo space of 83.9 cubic feet when the second and third rows are folded down.
This setup guarantees excellent passenger comfort and practicality, making it an excellent choice for families needing both space and convenience.
Powertrain and Performance
Although equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces a robust 280 horsepower, the 2019 Honda Pilot pairs this power with a smooth 9-speed automatic transmission to boost both fuel efficiency and acceleration.
This powertrain option enriches your driving experience with standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive.
In a performance comparison, the Pilot offers a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, making it a strong contender against similar vehicles like the Nissan Pathfinder, which boasts different engine specifications.
2019 Toyota Highlander
Finding rivals to the Nissan Pathfinder leads you straight to the Toyota Highlander, a three-row SUV that’s proven its popularity with shoppers seeking versatility and reliability.
The Highlander offers six trim levels, each equipped with robust safety features and advanced technology options. It features a spacious interior with ample cargo space, making it ideal for families.
Additionally, its available all-wheel drive improves performance in various driving conditions, further solidifying its position as a top choice among similar vehicles. The Highlander balances power with fuel efficiency.
2019 Buick Enclave
With luxurious appointments and a design emphasizing comfort for all passengers, the Buick Enclave stands out among the top three-row SUVs you can choose as an alternative to the Nissan Pathfinder.
Its premium feel—enhanced by luxury features such as Wi-Fi hotspot, tri-zone climate control, and upscale Avenir trim options—caters especially well to families seeking both family comfort and sophisticated styling.
You benefit from generous cargo space and seating for up to seven, making every drive or road trip practical.
The Enclave’s combination of interior space, advanced tech, and accessible luxury makes it a compelling rival.
2019 Mazda CX-9
If you’re looking for a family SUV that combines style, performance, and practicality like the Nissan Pathfinder, the Mazda CX-9 is a strong contender.
The CX-9’s seven-seat layout offers flexible cargo space and room for everyone, with an upscale interior that stands out in its class. Its 2.5-liter turbo engine delivers spirited acceleration, and standard G-Vectoring Control improves handling.
Here’s what you’ll appreciate most:
- CX-9 safety features: Advanced driver aids include front and rear autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
- CX-9 cargo space: Versatile seating and ample room for gear.
- CX-9 technology options: User-friendly infotainment and available surround-view cameras.
- Dynamic driving feel: Smooth ride, stable handling, and confidence-inspiring technology.
2019 Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer, a staple among three-row SUVs, helps you stay ahead of the pack with flexible seating—room for up to seven or the option for more luxurious captain’s chairs—and impressive cargo adaptability. Here’s a comparison of key features:
| Feature | Ford Explorer | Nissan Pathfinder |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Up to 7 | Up to 8 |
| Engine | 2.3L Turbo | 3.5L V6 |
| Towing | 5,000 lbs | 6,000 lbs |
| Fuel Efficiency | 21/28 MPG | 20/27 MPG |
The Explorer offers robust technology features and strong safety ratings.
Conclusion
As you navigate the world of midsize SUVs, vehicles like the Subaru Ascent, Chevrolet Traverse, and Kia Telluride softly land on the radar, offering spacious interiors and family-friendly vibes. The Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander shine with reliability, while the Ford Expedition and its peers paint a picture of versatility. Each model gently reveals its unique charm, catering to diverse tastes and needs.
