The Pathfinder and Rogue share Nissan's safety tech and smartphone connectivity, but they're sized for very different routines. Use this guide to see how a three-row family hauler stacks up against a compact everyday SUV, from the school pickup line to the boat launch up north.
The Pathfinder wins on people, power, and pulling. The Rogue wins on fuel savings and easy parking. Here's how big the gap really is.
Answer these honestly and the right SUV usually picks itself.
If six or more people ride with you regularly, the Pathfinder is the clear answer. If it's usually you plus a few passengers, the Rogue gives you plenty of room for less.
A fishing boat, pontoon, or pop-up camper calls for the Pathfinder and its 6,000-lb rating. A bike rack or small utility trailer is well within the Rogue's 1,500-lb limit.
Long commutes down I-35W add up fast. The Rogue's 32 combined MPG can save real money at the pump compared to the Pathfinder's 23.
The Pathfinder is roughly 15 inches longer. Measure your garage if space is tight; the Rogue fits more easily in older garages and crowded lots.
Engine, cargo, fuel economy, and towing, all in one place.
| Spec | Nissan Pathfinder | Nissan Rogue |
|---|---|---|
| Class | Midsize, 3 rows | Compact, 2 rows |
| Seating | 7 (captain's chairs) or 8 (bench) | 5 |
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 1.5L VC-Turbo 3-cylinder |
| Horsepower / Torque | 284 hp / 259 lb-ft (295 / 270 Rock Creek) | 201 hp / 225 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | Xtronic CVT |
| EPA MPG (City/Hwy/Comb) | 21 / 27 / 23 | 29 / 36 / 32 |
| Max Cargo | 80.5 cu ft | 74.1 cu ft |
| Max Towing | 6,000 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
The Pathfinder is the SUV for full calendars. Three rows mean hockey teammates, grandparents, and friends all fit, and second-row captain's chairs leave a walkway to the back. With 45 cubic feet behind the second row, a weekend's worth of gear slides right in.
The Rogue is made for the daily grind. It slips into tight spots, handles the commute into downtown Minneapolis without draining your wallet, and still swallows 74.1 cubic feet of cargo with the rear seats folded.
Practices in Apple Valley, games in Lakeville, and a few extra kids who need a ride home.
Pick: PathfinderFive days a week down I-35W, and you want fewer stops at the gas station.
Pick: RogueFriday afternoons mean hitching up the boat or camper and heading for the lake.
Pick: PathfinderYou're moving up from a sedan and want more space and AWD without a big jump in size.
Pick: RogueGrandparents, parents, and kids traveling together for holidays and Sunday dinners.
Pick: PathfinderThe kids moved out. You want comfort, tech, and room for the dog, not a third row.
Pick: RogueThe Rogue's available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive works in the background, shifting power to the wheels with the best grip the moment it senses slip. It's a great match for plowed suburban streets and highway commutes.
The Pathfinder's available 4WD with selectable drive modes, including a Snow mode, gives you more hands-on control for gravel cabin roads, unplowed driveways, and towing in winter. Whichever you choose, a set of dedicated winter tires makes the biggest difference of all.
Climb into the third row, fold the seats, and see which SUV fits your life at Walser Nissan Burnsville.
Walser Nissan Burnsville · 14750 Buck Hill Road, Burnsville, MN 55306 · 612-395-4999
