Nissan Pathfinder vs Toyota 4Runner

Every car shopper out there has a hierarchy of needs. They put some needs above other needs. Whether you are looking for the best fuel economy, the most cargo space, or the newest tech and safety features, certain vehicles excel in some areas or falls behind in others. The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder does not stand out courtesy of any one particular characteristic, but much like the people shopping for it, the Pathfinder is a combination of attributes in one vehicle.

For the 2023 model year, Nissan has introduced the Rock Creek edition. It’s a more rugged version of the Pathfinder. That’s a bit ironic because, like many entrants in this family-hauling segment, the Pathfinder started out decades ago as tough, truck-based SUVs. So while the Pathfinder has evolved into a more comfortable vehicle, the Rock Creek appears to be an attempt to capture the spirit of the early Nissan SUVs. So, how does the Pathfinder stack up within the popular and hotly contested midsize SUV segment? And does the Rock Creek warrant attention as an off-road vehicle?

Verdict: The Toyota 4Runner remains an accomplished off-road-capable vehicle with a strong reputation for reliability and durability. A new 4Runner is expected, and the current model's aging platform is in desperate need of a full redesign. It trails newer rivals when it comes to technology, safety features, fuel efficiency, and power. The 2024 Toyota 4Runner would be easier to recommend it if the price were significantly reduced.

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