Nissan Pathfinder vs Toyota bZ

The 2026 Toyota bZ was offered in XLE and Limited trims, with options for single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) or dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD), and two battery sizes. Models with the larger battery were priced higher but provided enhanced power, performance, and range, with prices ranging from $36,495 to $46,895, including the destination charge. The XLE test vehicle featured FWD and the optional larger battery, transforming it into the XLE Plus for an additional $3,000. The vehicle's exterior was improved with body-color trim, and the interior boasted a cleaner dashboard and center console, with a 14-inch touchscreen integrated with climate controls. However, the digital driver display was criticized for its placement and readability.

The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder combined smooth and chunky design elements, with a restyled front bumper and a simplified grille. The interior saw significant changes, including a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen and a redesigned steering wheel. The Pathfinder's interior was noted for its simplicity and quality materials, with semi-aniline leather on the Platinum trim adding a touch of luxury. Despite these updates, the Pathfinder maintained a classic feel that was expected to age well.

The 2026 Toyota bZ offered a range of powertrain options. The XLE with FWD and a 57.7-kWh battery delivered 165 horsepower and 198 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 236 miles. Upgrading to the 74.7-kWh battery increased horsepower to 224 and extended the range to 314 miles. Dual-motor models produced 338 horsepower, with varying ranges depending on the trim. The bZ was compatible with Tesla Superchargers and offered efficient charging options. However, the FWD model struggled with traction and handling on winding roads, and the ride could be choppy on uneven surfaces.

The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder retained its naturally-aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque, with the Rock Creek trim offering slightly more power with premium fuel. The Pathfinder's performance was considered lackluster, with a nine-speed automatic transmission that felt sluggish. Fuel economy was average for the segment, and the Rock Creek trim's off-road capabilities were limited by its tires. The suspension was soft, leading to more body lean and less precise steering, but the Pathfinder excelled in straight-line comfort.

The 2026 Toyota bZ featured a skateboard-style EV platform with 8.1 inches of ground clearance, making entry and exit easy. The front seats offered eight-way power adjustment, with heated and ventilated options on the Limited trim. The bZ lacked a traditional glove compartment but compensated with ample storage solutions. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed generous legroom, though foot space was limited. Cargo space was 27.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 56.9 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder's "Latch and Glide" second-row seats enhanced family usability, with generous headroom and legroom in the first two rows. The third row was tight for taller passengers. The Pathfinder could seat seven or eight, depending on the trim, with optional captain's chairs. Cargo space was 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 80.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The Pathfinder offered good visibility and easy operation with analog controls.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came with a 7-inch digital driver display and a new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While the infotainment system was generally user-friendly, it lacked a home screen for simultaneous data display and had readability issues in daytime mode. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with various connected service plans available. The voice assistant performed well, though it occasionally struggled with complex commands.

The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though factory navigation was not offered. The system was praised for its ease of use and responsiveness. Upper trims introduced Qi2 wireless charging and advanced camera views. The SL trim gained a digital instrument panel, while the Platinum offered a head-up display and a premium Bose audio system.

The 2026 Toyota bZ included Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, with features like forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist added subtle braking and steering inputs. The Limited trim offered additional safety features like Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park Assist. However, the bZ's safety ratings from the IIHS were mixed, with poor headlight ratings and acceptable frontal-impact crash-test results.

The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including second-row side-impact airbags and a front-center side airbag on the Platinum trim. Standard driver aids included forward collision warning and blind spot monitoring. The Pathfinder earned five stars from the NHTSA, though it received four stars in the frontal crash test. The IIHS awarded top ratings in the side impact and small overlap front tests.