Power Players

Both the Nissan Pathfinder and the Hyundai Santa Fe offer your choice of 2-wheel drive or available 4-wheel drive/all-wheel drive along with selectable drive modes designed to help manage changing road and terrain conditions. On paper, they appear evenly matched, but real-world performance tells a more nuanced story.

When it comes to everyday driving, the difference is how effortlessly each SUV accelerates and maintains speed. That matters when merging onto highways and carrying a full cabin of passengers. In those situations, smooth, confident performance makes all the difference.

How that power is managed is just as important. The Santa Fe uses an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the Pathfinder’s 9-speed automatic optimizes gear ratios for stronger response and improved efficiency.

Works Hard, Plays Harder

True to its name, the Nissan Pathfinder is built to go beyond the pavement, and the Hyundai Santa Fe is no stranger to adventure either. Both offer off-road-focused trims: the Pathfinder Rock Creek and the Santa Fe XRT. Each features off-road-tuned suspensions, all-terrain tires, added ground clearance, and roof rails. However, the Pathfinder’s heavy-duty tubular steel rails and stronger 295-horsepower output give it a clear edge.

Weekend getaways and family vacations are even better when you can bring more along. While both SUVs offer towing capability, the difference becomes clear when you look at how much each can confidently handle.

Both SUVs include Trailer Sway Control, but the Pathfinder goes further with an available Tow Mode with Downhill Speed Control. These additional features make towing more controlled and confident on steep grades.

Sized for Real Life

Both SUVs offer more than 145 cubic feet of total passenger volume. Row dimensions are similarly accommodating, and both models are available with second-row captain’s chairs, making either a comfortable choice for families and carpools alike.

When it comes to cargo, the difference is in the details. The Pathfinder offers more space where it matters most.

A difference of one or two cubic feet may look small on paper, but it can determine whether everything fits comfortably.

Comfort When It Counts

The cabin is where every drive unfolds, so comfort matters. Both SUVs come with upgrade leatherette or leather upholstery on higher trims, as well as these available comfort-enhancing features:

• Heated/ventilated front seats
• Heated rear seats
• Heated steering wheel

The Pathfinder stands out by including premium conveniences without requiring an upgrade, such as an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat with 2-way power lumbar support. It also includes Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control, something the Santa Fe does not, topping out instead with available dual automatic temperature control.

Connected and in Control

Both SUVs start on a level playing field with a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™, and four USB ports. Both also offer available wireless charging to keep devices powered without cluttering the cabin with cords.

The Nissan Pathfinder takes the lead with a 7-inch reconfigurable Multi-Information Display (MID), making vital driving information easier to see than the Santa Fe’s 4.2-inch MID. Additional standard Pathfinder features require upgrades or are unavailable in the Santa Fe:

• Voice recognition
• Speed-sensitive volume
• Wi-Fi Hotspot

Available premium audio also favors the Pathfinder: its Bose® system includes 13 speakers , one more than the Santa Fe’s 12, delivering a richer, more immersive listening experience.

Confidence Comes Standard

When you’re behind the wheel, nothing matters more than protecting your family. Both Nissan and Hyundai equip their SUVs with advanced driver-assistance technologies designed to support safer driving. Each offers a comprehensive suite of features, including:

• High Beam Assist
• Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
• Intelligent Lane Intervention
• Intelligent Driver Alertness
• Intelligent Cruise Control with Full Speed Range

However, how those systems work, and when they’re included, sets them apart. While both alert you to vehicles in your blind spot, the Santa Fe simply warns the driver. The Pathfinder’s Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention® goes further, stepping in when needed to help avoid a potential collision.

Additionally, only the Pathfinder includes ProPILOT Assist 1.0 as standard equipment. This hands-on system helps maintain lane position, manage following distance, and even stop and resume with traffic, features that require higher trims on the Santa Fe.