For many, the hunt for a midsize SUV comes with mandates like a powerful engine, leading-edge technology, and 3-row seating. There are plenty of options, but if you want something updated recently, check out the Nissan Pathfinder and Chevrolet Traverse.
The Nissan Pathfinder received an impressive redesign two years ago, while Chevy rolled out the all-new Traverse last year. This pair certainly checks all the boxes above. Let’s take a closer look.
2025 Nissan Pathfinder
2024 model shown
Nissan’s 2022 renewal of the Pathfinder can best be described using its mantra: a return to rugged. It got a much more masculine look and an upgrade to its capabilities. Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that puts out 284 horsepower, the Pathfinder can carry seven passengers and tow as much as 6,000 pounds. That combination makes it a go-anywhere, do-lots-of-things SUV.
The Nissan Pathfinder has five trims: S, SV, Rock Creek, SL, and Platinum. The Rock Creek edition’s engine gets a tweak that ups the power output to 295 hp when using 93 octane gasoline. Pricing starts at $38,460, including the destination charge.
Nissan Pathfinder Highlights
Go anywhere: Nissan’s 9-speed transmission helps fuel economy, but it also pairs nicely with its 4-wheel-drive package controlled with the turn of a dial. There are seven selectable drive modes: Standard, Sport, Eco, Snow, Mud/Rut, and Tow. The packages optimize vehicle settings for what’s needed at the moment.
Sounds good: Optional in the SL and standard in the top-end Platinum grade, the Bose 13-speaker audio system includes a subwoofer and provides concert hall-quality sound.
Safety tech: Standard on the Pathfinder is Nissan Safety Shield 360 with driver assistance features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, automatic high beams, and more.
Read our Nissan Pathfinder Expert Review or see 2025 Nissan Pathfinder models for sale near you.
2025 Chevrolet Traverse
When the Chevy Traverse got a complete makeover two years ago, many wondered if it retained all of the characteristics of the previous model — particularly its people-hauling capacity. It most certainly did featuring a spacious cabin with seating for up to eight people, courtesy of a third-row bench, which can now be a powered third row if you order it in the new High Country trim level.
Not only did the Traverse get a new square-shouldered, commanding exterior, but also a new powerplant under the hood. No longer powered by a V6, it gets a 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder producing 328 hp, which is more ponies than its predecessor. The Traverse comes in four trim levels — LS, LT, Z71, and RS — with pricing on the LS starting at $41,995, including destination fees.
Chevrolet Traverse Highlights
Big screen: If you harbor concerns about being able to see a touchscreen clearly, worry no more, as the new Traverse comes with a 17.7-inch infotainment screen, which the Pathfinder doesn’t come close to matching.
Super Cruise: Described by many as the best hands-free driving technology on the road today, it’s available on the new Traverse. It combines adaptive cruise control and steering assistance, allowing drivers to keep their hands off the wheel and their feet off the pedals on more than 400,000 miles of mapped roads in the U.S. and Canada. The driver must remain alert and keep their eyes on the road.
Off-roader: For the first time in the Traverse lineup, a Z71 version is available. With AWD standard, the Z71 also fits a dedicated suspension, all-terrain tires, tow hooks, and a skid plate. Ground clearance is higher than on the regular Traverse, and the AWD system has switchable terrain modes.
Read our Chevrolet Traverse Expert Review or see 2025 Chevrolet Traverse models for sale near you.
Similarities
Big and brawny with room for (at least) seven passengers, plus strong drivetrains and top-flight technology, there’s plenty to like about these 3-row SUVs.
Conclusion
These are two impressive vehicles. Not much was left to chance in either vehicle’s makeover. The Nissan Pathfinder is the value choice because of its lower starting price than the Traverse while matching the Chevy’s fuel economy and warranty. However, the Chevy Traverse has a stronger engine, considerably more interior space, and available hands-free driving. The Traverse is worth the price bump, but the Pathfinder is great for frugal families.
New 2025 Nissan Pathfinder Prices
New 2025 Chevrolet Traverse Prices
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors.
The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Nissan Pathfinder vehicles and New 2025 Chevrolet Traverse vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership.
These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
| 2025 Nissan Pathfinder | 2025 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 3.5-liter 6-cylinder | 2.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 284 hp @ 6,400 rpm | 328 hp @ 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 259 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm | 326 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Fuel Economy | 20 city/27 highway/23 combined mpg | 20 city/27 highway/23 combined mpg |
| Also Available | 4WD | AWD |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 5 stars | Not rated |
| Max Seating Capacity | 8 | 8 |
| Wheelbase | 114.2 inches | 120.9 inches |
| Overall Length | 197.7 inches | 204.5 inches |
| Width | 77.9 inches | 79.6 inches |
| Height | 70.9 inches | 70.9 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 38.7 feet | 39.0 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 42.3 inches | 42.6 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 39.6 inches | 40.0 inches |
| Headroom, 3rd Row | 37.8 inches | 38.3 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 44.3 inches | 44.3 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 35.5 inches | 41.5 inches |
| Legroom, 3rd Row | 28.0 inches | 32.1 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 60.8 inches | 62.3 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 59.6 inches | 62.2 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 3rd Row | 58.4 inches | 57.7 inches |
| Cargo Volume | 16.6/45/80.5 cubic feet | 22.9/56.6/97.6 cubic feet |