Nissan Pathfinder vs Telluride: Which Suv Reigns Supreme?
Choosing the right SUV can feel like navigating a maze. With so many options, how do you find the perfect blend of space, performance, and features? Today, we’re putting two heavy hitters head-to-head: the Nissan Pathfinder and the Kia Telluride.
Both the Pathfinder and the Telluride are renowned for their family-friendly design and impressive capabilities. They offer ample seating, comfortable rides, and a host of modern technology features designed to enhance your driving experience. But which one truly comes out on top?
This in-depth comparison will explore everything from their engine performance and interior comforts to their safety ratings and overall value. We’ll dissect the strengths and weaknesses of each vehicle to help you determine which SUV best suits your needs and budget. Get ready to discover which one deserves a spot in your driveway!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Pathfinder | Telluride |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 3.8L V6 |
| Horsepower | 284 hp | 291 hp |
| Torque | 259 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed Automatic | 8-speed Automatic |
| Seating Capacity | Up to 8 | Up to 8 |
| Cargo Volume (Behind 3rd Row) | 16.6 cu. ft. | 21 cu. ft. |
| Max Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 20/27 MPG | 20/26 MPG |
| Infotainment Screen | 8-inch or 9-inch | 10.25-inch or 12.3-inch |
| Standard Safety Features | Nissan Safety Shield 360 | Kia Drive Wise |
| Off-Road Capability | Available All-Mode 4×4-i | Available AWD with Snow Mode |
| Warranty | 3-year/36,000-mile | 5-year/60,000-mile |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Seating Capacity
- Nissan Pathfinder: Offers seating for up to 8 passengers across three rows. Features Nissan’s EZ Flex® seating system for easy access to the third row. Some find the third row space a bit tight for adults.
- Telluride: Also accommodates up to 8 passengers in most configurations, with available second-row captain’s chairs reducing capacity to 7. Provides a spacious and comfortable third row, even for adults.
- Winner: Telluride
Engine & Performance
- Nissan Pathfinder: Equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing around 284 horsepower. Offers a smooth ride and decent fuel economy, but acceleration can feel slightly sluggish compared to rivals.
- Telluride: Powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine generating approximately 291 horsepower. Delivers stronger acceleration and a more responsive driving experience.
- Winner: Telluride
Infotainment System
- Nissan Pathfinder: Features a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Some reviewers note the graphics could be more modern.
- Telluride: Boasts a large touchscreen display with intuitive controls, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system in higher trims. Known for its ease of use and crisp display.
- Winner: Telluride
Safety Features
- Nissan Pathfinder: Comes standard with Nissan Safety Shield® 360, including features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. Offers a good suite of safety tech.
- Telluride: Includes a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Often receives top safety ratings.
- Winner: Telluride
Cargo Space
- Nissan Pathfinder: Offers a decent amount of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. Cargo space behind the third row is slightly less than Telluride.
- Telluride: Provides ample cargo space, even with all seats in use. Offers more overall cargo capacity compared to the Pathfinder.
- Winner: Telluride
Fuel Economy
- Nissan Pathfinder: Generally offers competitive fuel economy for its class. Fuel economy varies depending on the drivetrain.
- Telluride: Fuel economy is comparable to the Pathfinder.
- Winner: Pathfinder
Exterior Styling
- Nissan Pathfinder: Features a rugged and modern design with a boxier profile. Its styling is more traditional SUV.
- Telluride: Boasts a bold and upscale exterior design with a premium feel. Its design is more modern.
- Winner: Telluride
Price & Value
- Nissan Pathfinder: Generally priced competitively within its segment, offering a good value proposition.
- Telluride: While slightly more expensive, offers a higher level of features and refinement for the price.
- Winner: Pathfinder
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Engine Performance | Telluride |
| Interior Quality | Telluride |
| Warranty | Telluride |
| Towing Capacity | Pathfinder |
| Fuel Economy | Pathfinder |
| Infotainment | Telluride |
What They Have in Common
- Seating Capacity: Both SUVs offer seating for up to eight passengers, making them suitable for families or groups needing ample space.
- Safety Features: Both the Pathfinder and Telluride come standard with a suite of advanced safety features, designed to assist the driver and enhance overall safety.
- Three-Row Seating: Both vehicles are equipped with three rows of seating, providing flexibility for passengers and cargo.
- Infotainment Systems: Both SUVs include modern infotainment systems with touchscreen displays and smartphone integration capabilities, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Available All-Wheel Drive: Both offer all-wheel-drive options for improved traction and performance in various driving conditions.
Nissan Pathfinder Vs Telluride Buying Guide
Performance and Handling
The Nissan Pathfinder and Kia Telluride offer distinct driving experiences. The Pathfinder typically features a V6 engine, providing adequate power for daily driving and towing. Its focus is often on a comfortable ride with a more compliant suspension, making it suitable for family trips. The Telluride, however, often boasts a slightly more powerful V6 engine and a more refined driving experience. Its handling is generally more composed, and acceleration feels a bit more spirited. Both vehicles offer available all-wheel-drive, enhancing traction in various conditions. Consider your priorities: a softer ride for the Pathfinder or a more engaging feel with the Telluride.
Interior Space and Comfort
Both SUVs offer three rows of seating, but there are differences in passenger and cargo space. The Telluride is often praised for its spacious and well-designed interior, providing ample legroom and headroom in all three rows. Its cargo area behind the third row is also typically larger than the Pathfinder’s. The Pathfinder provides comfortable seating for passengers, but the third row can be tighter. It is important to compare the measurements and consider how often you’ll need to use the third row and how much cargo space you need. Consider test driving both with your family to assess personal preferences.
Technology and Features
Both the Pathfinder and Telluride come equipped with a range of technology features, but the specific offerings and user interfaces can vary. The Telluride is known for its user-friendly infotainment system, often including a large touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and advanced driver-assistance systems. The Pathfinder also offers a comparable suite of features, but the infotainment system might not be quite as intuitive as the Telluride’s. Evaluate the features that are most important to you, such as the size and resolution of the touchscreen, the availability of features like a surround-view camera, and the ease of using smartphone integration.
Safety Features
Safety is a paramount concern for families, and both SUVs are equipped with many advanced safety features. Both vehicles include standard features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Telluride often receives top safety ratings from agencies like the IIHS. The Pathfinder also performs well in safety tests, but it’s essential to compare the specific features offered by each model year. Check the safety ratings and reviews to assess the effectiveness of the safety systems. Consider features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and the availability of advanced driver-assistance features.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is a crucial factor for many buyers. Both the Nissan Pathfinder and Kia Telluride offer competitive fuel economy ratings in the mid-size SUV segment. The specific fuel economy figures can vary depending on the engine configuration, drivetrain (front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive), and driving conditions. Compare the EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings for the specific models you are considering. Also, consider your typical driving habits: city driving, highway driving, or a combination of both. Check fuel economy reports and real-world driving reviews to get a better sense of the actual fuel efficiency you can expect.
Value and Reliability
The overall value proposition involves considering the price, features, reliability, and long-term ownership costs. The Telluride often presents a strong value proposition, offering a generous amount of features at a competitive price point. Its reliability is generally considered to be above average. The Pathfinder also offers good value, but the long-term reliability of the Pathfinder can vary. Research the reliability ratings from sources such as J.D. Power, and consider the cost of ownership, including insurance, maintenance, and potential repair costs. Compare the warranty coverage offered by each manufacturer.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Nissan Pathfinder If…
- You prioritize a slightly more agile driving experience.
- You value the Nissan brand’s reputation for reliability.
- You want a vehicle with a competitive towing capacity.
- You prefer a more compact exterior size for easier maneuverability.
Buy Telluride If…
- You want a more luxurious and refined interior.
- You prioritize a longer warranty for peace of mind.
- You desire a larger infotainment screen with more features.
- You prefer a bolder, more distinctive exterior design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences in engine performance?
The Telluride often has a slightly more powerful engine, leading to potentially quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience. While both offer V6 engines, the Telluride’s engine might feel more responsive. However, the Pathfinder’s engine provides sufficient power for most driving scenarios and towing needs. Consider your driving style and whether you prioritize raw power or a more balanced approach when making a decision between the two.
How do the interiors compare in terms of space and comfort?
The Telluride generally provides more interior space, especially in the third row, and offers a more spacious cargo area. Both offer three rows, but the Pathfinder’s third row can be tighter, making it more suitable for occasional use. The Telluride’s design is known for providing a more comfortable experience for all passengers. Consider how often you’ll be using the third row and the size of your family when making your decision.
Which SUV offers a more user-friendly infotainment system?
The Telluride often features a more intuitive and user-friendly infotainment system. Its touchscreen interface is generally well-regarded for its ease of use. The Pathfinder also has a modern infotainment system, but it may not be as seamlessly integrated or as easy to navigate as the Telluride’s. Evaluate the system’s responsiveness, the size of the screen, and the ease of smartphone integration.
What safety features are standard in each vehicle?
Both SUVs come equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the specific features offered can vary slightly. Both have advanced driver-assistance systems. Check the safety ratings from independent testing agencies, such as IIHS and NHTSA, to assess the overall safety performance of each vehicle.
How does fuel economy differ between the Pathfinder and Telluride?
Fuel economy is competitive between the Pathfinder and Telluride, but specific figures can vary depending on engine, drivetrain, and driving conditions. The difference in fuel economy is generally minor. Compare the EPA-estimated MPG ratings for the specific models you are considering. Consider your driving habits, such as city vs. highway driving, and read real-world fuel economy reports.
Which SUV offers a better value for the money?
The Telluride often provides a strong value proposition. It has a generous amount of features at a competitive price. The Pathfinder also offers good value, but the specific value proposition can vary depending on the trim levels and features. Consider the features offered, reliability, warranty coverage, and long-term ownership costs, including insurance and maintenance.
Which SUV is more reliable?
Reliability ratings can vary. The Telluride has a good reputation for reliability, with many considering it above average. The Pathfinder’s reliability is more variable. Research reliability ratings from sources like J.D. Power. Also, consider the manufacturer’s warranty coverage, which can provide peace of mind in the event of any issues. This helps in making a comprehensive decision.
Final Verdict
The Nissan Pathfinder and Kia Telluride are both excellent choices in the mid-size SUV segment, each with its strengths. The Telluride often edges out the Pathfinder with its more spacious interior, refined driving experience, and user-friendly technology. While the Pathfinder provides a comfortable ride and offers a good value, the Telluride’s overall package often makes it the more compelling choice for families seeking space, features, and a premium feel.
Winner: Kia Telluride