2024 Acura MDX vs 2025 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2024 Acura MDX presented a striking exterior with its large shield grille, rakish headlights, and modern bumper design. Inside, it was high-tech but cluttered, with a center console full of controls that could be overwhelming. The MDX offered various trims, including the Technology, A-Spec, and Advance Packages, each adding unique features like ambient lighting, upgraded audio systems, and heated seats. The Type-S Advance package stood out with a 26-speaker ELS sound system and massaging front seats, providing a luxurious experience despite the busy interior.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, tested in snowy conditions near Mount Rainier, showcased its rugged Rock Creek trim with 3-Peak Mud-and-Snow-rated tires and standard AWD. Redesigned in 2022, the Pathfinder featured an assertive front end and stylish LED lighting. The Rock Creek trim added adventurous elements like a metal roof rack and exposed trailer hitch. Inside, it offered leatherette-and-cloth upholstery with bright orange logos, and the EZ Flex Seating System allowed easy access to the third row without removing car seats. Despite its tough appearance, it lacked additional ground clearance and skid plates.

The 2024 Acura MDX came with a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower, while the Type-S featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with 355 horsepower. The 10-speed automatic transmission and available Super-Handling AWD provided smooth power delivery and strong acceleration. The adaptive air suspension and Brembo brakes enhanced its sporty yet comfortable ride. The MDX excelled on highways, offering a refined driving experience with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 284 horsepower in most trims and 295 horsepower in the Rock Creek. The nine-speed automatic transmission replaced the previous CVT, offering smooth shifts. The Pathfinder's towing capacity reached 6,000 pounds with the right equipment. Its soft suspension provided comfort on bumpy roads but felt floaty on twisty roads. The Rock Creek trim was best for light off-roading, with fuel economy averaging 20.8 mpg over a 200-mile test.

The 2024 Acura MDX offered three rows of seating, with the first two rows being comfortable and supportive. Cargo space measured 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with seats folded. The center console was spacious, but the control layout was cluttered. The power liftgate was standard on higher trims, enhancing convenience.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder provided ample interior space, accommodating four adults comfortably on a ski trip. Cargo capacity was 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 80.5 cubic feet with seats folded. The Rock Creek trim featured captain’s chairs and a removable center console. The EZ Flex Seating System allowed easy access to the third row, even with car seats in place.

The 2024 Acura MDX's infotainment system was its weak point, with a clumsy touchpad interface. However, it included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The clever placement of charging ports and a digital instrument panel were positives, but the system's complexity detracted from the overall experience.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder's tech felt dated compared to competitors. The 8-inch or 9-inch screens were smaller than rivals, but physical buttons and knobs made it user-friendly. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 13-speaker Bose system available on higher trims. Navigation and a head-up display were limited to the top trims.

The 2024 Acura MDX came with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. It earned a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder also received a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. It included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and ProPilot Assist on most trims, enhancing safety.