2026 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2025 Nissan Pathfinder

Despite a rich history and lengthy pedigree, the Nissan Pathfinder has struggled to compete against the most popular three-row crossover SUVs. That’s perplexing, as the Pathfinder offers excellent cargo capacity, comfortable seating, and a modern design, and it does it all at a competitive price. Slight updates for the 2025 model year are unlikely to vault the Pathfinder ahead of competitors like the Honda Pilot or Kia Telluride, but they nonetheless help make this attractive SUV even more appealing..

Verdict: The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder is missing the single killer app to put it clear ahead of competitors. Instead, it offers a beautifully well-rounded package, with no single area likely to let shoppers down, even if there’s no single area likely to wow them, either. An ideal workhorse for both adventurous and budget-friendly families, the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder delivers a solid, reliable experience across all aspects of ownership.

Buyers have high expectations of luxury crossovers. They want arresting design, comfortable interiors, the latest technology, and powerful engines. Several automakers employ turbocharged six-cylinder engines to get that power, but Lexus is going a different way with its most potent RX model—the RX 500h F Sport Performance. It still uses a turbocharger, but also employs hybrid technology to boost power and cut acceleration times while improving fuel economy. It’s one of two 2026 Lexus RX Hybrid models, along with the tamer RX 350h.

Verdict: The RX 500h F Sport Performance may be the most powerful RX, but it’s not as powerful or quick as most rivals, and despite the F Sport badge, there isn’t much real “sport” to be had. While it does have good EPA fuel economy ratings, we found them hard to match in the real world.