VS
At a Glance
Power
284hp @ 6400
278hp @ 6000
Torque
259lb-ft @ 4800
317lb-ft @ 1700
Towing
6000lbs
6000lbs
Engine
3.5 L/213cc
2.4 L/146cc
Choosing between the Nissan Pathfinder and the Toyota 4runner is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Nissan Pathfinder delivers 284hp @ 6400 while the Toyota 4runner produces 278hp @ 6000. Pricing starts at $49,400 for the Pathfinder and $56,700 for the 4runner. 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)
284hp @ 6400
278hp @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft)
259lb-ft @ 4800
317lb-ft @ 1700
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
3.5 L/213cc
2.4 L/146cc
Engine Layout
V
—
Cylinders
6
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
—
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic w/OD
Number of Gears
—
8
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive
Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
21 (Est)mpg
—
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
27 (Est)mpg
—
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
18.5gal
19gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
197.7in
194.9in
Width (in)
77.9in
77.9in
Height (in)
70.9in
73.1in
Wheelbase (in)
114.2in
112.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4489lbs
4730lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
6000lbs
6000lbs
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
—
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Nissan Pathfinder
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Pathfinder
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Nissan Pathfinder
Lower starting price ($49,400)
Few notable weaknesses
Toyota 4runner
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Pathfinder or 4runner?
The Pathfinder produces 284hp @ 6400 and 259lb-ft @ 4800 of torque while the 4runner delivers 278hp @ 6000 and 317lb-ft @ 1700 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Pathfinder and 4runner?
The Pathfinder starts from $49,400 and the 4runner from $56,700. The Pathfinder is cheaper by $7,300 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Pathfinder or 4runner?
The Pathfinder has a braked towing capacity of 6000lbs and the 4runner can tow 6000lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Pathfinder or the 4runner?
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.