VS
At a Glance
Power
272hp @ 6500
284hp @ 6400
Torque
280lb-ft @ 1600
259lb-ft @ 4800
Towing
1500lbs
3500lbs
Engine
2.0 L/122cc
3.5 L/213cc
Choosing between the Acura Rdx and the Nissan Pathfinder is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Acura Rdx delivers 272hp @ 6500 while the Nissan Pathfinder produces 284hp @ 6400. Pricing starts at $54,850 for the Rdx and $39,500 for the Pathfinder. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
272hp @ 6500
284hp @ 6400
Torque (lb-ft)
280lb-ft @ 1600
259lb-ft @ 4800
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.0 L/122cc
3.5 L/213cc
Engine Layout
—
V
Cylinders
4
6
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic w/OD
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
Four Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
21mpg
21 (Est)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
26mpg
26 (Est)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
17.1gal
18.5gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
187.4in
197.7in
Width (in)
74.8in
77.9in
Height (in)
65.7in
70.9in
Wheelbase (in)
108.3in
114.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4058lbs
4482lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
1500lbs
3500lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
—
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
—
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
—
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
—
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
—
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Nissan Pathfinder
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Pathfinder
Practicality
Pathfinder
Pros & Cons
Acura Rdx
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Nissan Pathfinder
Lower starting price ($39,500)
Higher towing capacity (3500lbs)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Rdx or Pathfinder?
The Rdx produces 272hp @ 6500 and 280lb-ft @ 1600 of torque while the Pathfinder delivers 284hp @ 6400 and 259lb-ft @ 4800 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Rdx and Pathfinder?
The Rdx starts from $54,850 and the Pathfinder from $39,500. The Pathfinder is cheaper by $15,350 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Rdx or Pathfinder?
The Rdx has a braked towing capacity of 1500lbs and the Pathfinder can tow 3500lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Rdx or the Pathfinder?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.