Pathfinder or Rogue: Which Nissan SUV Is Right for You?

If you’re in the market for an SUV, you probably know that you have an abundance of options to choose from. In Nissan’s lineup alone, there are several fantastic models, all of which have rugged style, high driving positions, and versatile interiors with room for plenty of passengers and cargo. The main thing that sets these models apart is size, but choosing a size isn’t always an easy decision, especially when you have a growing family and aren’t sure what you’ll want in the years to come. As the old saying goes, it’s hard to make predictions, especially about the future.

For this guide, we’re going to assume that you’ve ruled out the two most extreme ends of the spectrum, subcompact and full-size; this still leaves you with compact and midsize models to pick from. As your go-to place to find the Nissan Rogue and Nissan Pathfinder for sale in Knoxville, we know a lot about what both of these models have to offer. Let’s dive in and see how you can determine which one is the right choice for you. (Note that we’ll be looking at the 2025 versions of both SUVs.)

Trim Lineup

For the 2025 model year, the Rogue and Pathfinder each have five trims, and all have the same names: S, SV, SL, Rock Creek, and Platinum. In broad strokes, the trims of the same name line up with each other: S is the entry-level option that’s well-rounded and affordable, Rock Creek is the most rugged option with special off-road equipment, and Platinum is the top-tier option with the best lineup of tech, comfort, and convenience features to keep you cozy, connected, and entertained.

However, don’t make the mistake of thinking that these trims are entirely identical. Trims with the same name on two different models don’t necessarily have all of the same features. Some of these differences make sense based on the size of the vehicle; the Pathfinder has three rows instead of two, so of course it has more USB ports and speakers than a Rogue with an equivalent trim. But other trims are less intuitive. If you want to make sure you’re getting a specific feature, be sure to look closely or ask a member of our team to help you make sure you get it.

Dimensions

As we’ve already alluded to, the main difference between the Rogue and the Pathfinder is size. The Rogue is a compact, two-row SUV that can seat up to five. Its tighter dimensions give it an edge on the streets of downtown Knoxville and in crowded parking lots, so it’s the better choice for maneuverability. It also has significantly more cargo space in the back with all of the seats up, since it doesn’t have to use any of its space on a third row of seating.

If you’re looking for extra space, the midsize Pathfinder is a big upgrade. It has three rows of seating that can be used to accommodate up to eight people (or seven if you opt for second-row captain’s chairs). And while it’s true that it has a smaller rear cargo area than the Rogue with all seats occupied, you can easily fold those seats down when not in use to expand the cargo space so you can transport bulky items more easily.

Affordability

Assembling a larger vehicle requires more materials, so it only makes sense that the Pathfinder is the more expensive model of the two. The Rogue has a starting MSRP of $28,590, while the Pathfinder starts at $36,400. That’s clearly a significant difference, and it’s something to keep in mind when weighing the pros and cons of the two models throughout this guide.

Performance 

In addition to being bigger, the Pathfinder is also the more powerful of the two vehicles. While the Rogue has a 1.5L I-3 engine under the hood, the Pathfinder is equipped with a 3.5L V6 that nets more horsepower and torque, meaning that even though it’s the larger and heavier vehicle, you can expect quicker acceleration. Driving enthusiasts may also prefer its nine-speed automatic transmission to the Rogue’s CVT.

When it comes to capability, the Pathfinder is also on top. The Rogue can tow up to 1,500 lbs, while a properly-equipped Pathfinder can tow up to 6,000 lbs; even lower trim levels can tow a solid 3,500 lbs. And while both vehicles come standard with front-wheel drive, their drivetrain upgrades are different. While the Rogue offers all-wheel drive, the Pathfinder uses a more rugged 4×4 system. Basically, AWD is optimized for driving on paved roads, while 4×4 is better for off-road; keep that in mind if you’re considering the rugged Rock Creek trim.

Efficiency

As you might imagine, the smaller size, lighter weight, and less powerful engine of the Rogue look like strengths instead of weaknesses in regard to fuel economy. The Pathfinder isn’t the most efficient option around, with an EPA rating of 23 MPG combined for either drivetrain. With AWD, the Rogue delivers 31 MPG combined; stick with FWD and the Rogue gets 33 MPG combined, letting you go an extra ten miles on every gallon of gas compared to the Pathfinder. On the highway, a FWD Rogue has an EPA rating of 37 MPG, making it ideal for road trips and commutes.

Safety

When it comes to safety, these two SUVs are essentially tied. Both have five-star overall safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and come standard with forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and crash-imminent braking systems that meet the NHTSA’s stringent performance criteria. That means you can drive the streets of Knoxville with confidence behind the wheel of either model.

In addition to features that the NHTSA specifically tests, both models come standard with blind-spot warning, high beam assist, a tire pressure monitoring system, driver attention alert, and rear parking sensors. Upgrade to higher trims, and you can get even more cutting-edge features, like a 360-degree surround-view camera system and ProPILOT Assist semi-autonomous freeway cruise control.

Factors to Consider When Deciding

Looking at the pros and cons of each model can feel overwhelming, but things get simpler when you break it down one step at a time. First, see if you have any dealbreakers that definitely rule out one model or the other. If you need that third row of seating, then the Rogue won’t fit the bill. If you have a strict budget, the Pathfinder might be out of reach.

Sometimes, there are no black and white factors that make your choice clear. In that case, think of bigger priorities. Commuters might be swayed by the Rogue’s impressive fuel economy. Outdoor enthusiasts might prefer the Pathfinder’s higher towing capacity. Every driver is unique, and you only need to consider the factors that actually apply to your life. Disregarding the ones that are irrelevant (towing capacity if you don’t own a trailer, for example) can make it easier to focus on what’s really important to you.

If you figure out your dream model on your own, that’s fantastic. But if not, there’s no shame in getting some help from experts who can answer all your questions and offer advice if you want it. Here at Rusty Wallace Nissan, our friendly team is more than happy to show you the full Nissan lineup and help you narrow your options down to the very best vehicle for you. Visit us today to see the Rogue and Pathfinder up close and get behind the wheel for a test drive or two.

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