Nissan Pathfinder vs Lexus RX Hybrid

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.

In 2024, the Lexus RX was the best-selling traditional luxury model in America. But is the midsize, two-row SUV’s popularity justifiable? Or does the RX sell on the strength of the Lexus brand and the model’s legendary reputation for reliability, a plush ride, and a quiet interior? The changes to the 2025 RX don’t help answer that question, unless you're looking for sportier choices, such as the new Black Line Special Edition shown here.

Verdict: Though it lacks substantial competition in the luxury hybrid SUV segment, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid is worthy of consideration. With hybrid, performance hybrid, and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain choices, as well as a range of trim levels that cater to a variety of customer requirements, it checks a lot of boxes.