VS
At a Glance
Power
221hp
284hp @ 6400
Torque
—
259lb-ft @ 4800
Towing
—
3500lbs
Engine
—
3.5 L/213cc
Choosing between the Lexus RZ and the Nissan Pathfinder is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Lexus RZ delivers 221hp while the Nissan Pathfinder produces 284hp @ 6400. Pricing starts at $48,200 for the RZ and $42,500 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)
221hp
284hp @ 6400
Torque (lb-ft)
—
259lb-ft @ 4800
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
—
3.5 L/213cc
Engine Layout
—
V
Cylinders
—
6
Fuel Type
Electric
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
1
—
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
—
21 (Est)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
—
27 (Est)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
—
18.5gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
189.2in
197.7in
Width (in)
74.6in
77.9in
Height (in)
64.4in
70.9in
Wheelbase (in)
112.2in
114.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4277lbs
4359lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
—
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
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
—
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Nissan Pathfinder
2 / 4 categories
Performance
RZ
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Pathfinder
Practicality
Pathfinder
Pros & Cons
Lexus RZ
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Nissan Pathfinder
Lower starting price ($42,500)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the RZ or Pathfinder?
The RZ produces 221hp while the Pathfinder delivers 284hp @ 6400 and 259lb-ft @ 4800 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the RZ and Pathfinder?
The RZ starts from $48,200 and the Pathfinder from $42,500. The Pathfinder is cheaper by $5,700 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the RZ or Pathfinder?
The RZ has a braked towing capacity of not specified and the Pathfinder can tow 3500lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the RZ 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.