2012 Toyota Highlander vs. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder
When we compare the 2012 Toyota Highlander's and the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder's specifications and ratings, the 2012 Toyota Highlander has the advantage in the areas of fuel efficiency, reliability, resale value, interior volume and overall quality score. The 2012 Nissan Pathfinder has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for used cars and base engine power. Based on this comparison of the 2012 Toyota Highlander's and the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder's specifications and ratings, the 2012 Toyota Highlander is a better car than the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder.
2012 Toyota Highlander vs. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Pricing
A used 2012 Toyota Highlander ranges from $9,998 to $20,994 while a used 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is priced between $5,989 to $15,997.
2012 Toyota Highlander vs. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Resale/Retained Value
Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the 2012 Toyota Highlander loses 38.1 percent of its value and the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder loses 53 percent of its value. This means the 2012 Toyota Highlander retains 15 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder.
2012 Toyota Highlander vs. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Quality Rating
The iSeeCars Overall Quality rating for the Toyota Highlander is 9.0 out of 10 while the Nissan Pathfinder's quality rating is 8.4 out of 10. This results in the Toyota Highlander being ranked 2 out of 31 Best Midsize SUVs and the Nissan Pathfinder being ranked 11 out of 31. Out of 22 Best 7-Seater SUVs, the Toyota Highlander is ranked 2 and the Nissan Pathfinder is ranked 6. The Toyota Highlander is also ranked 3 out of 30 Best SUVs with 3 Rows while the Nissan Pathfinder is ranked 8 out of 30. The Toyota Highlander is also ranked 3 out of 17 Best 8-seater SUVs while the Nissan Pathfinder is ranked 6 out of 17. The Toyota Highlander is also ranked 6 out of 66 Best Crossover SUVs while the Nissan Pathfinder is ranked 15 out of 66.
2012 Toyota Highlander vs. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Reliability Rating
iSeeCars’ Reliability Rating for the Toyota Highlander is 8.7 out of 10. For the Nissan Pathfinder the reliability rating is 8.5 out of 10. This gives the Toyota Highlander a slight advantage in reliability compared to the Nissan Pathfinder.
Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison
For engine performance, the 2012 Toyota Highlander’s base engine makes 187 horsepower, and the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder base engine makes 266 horsepower. The Highlander is rated to deliver an average of 22 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 480 miles. The Pathfinder is rated to deliver an average of 17 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 464 miles. This gives the 2012 Toyota Highlander the fuel efficiency and maximum range advantage over the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder. Both models use gasoline.
Passenger Space Comparison
While both models are crossover/midsize SUVs, the 2012 Toyota Highlander has the advantage of offering more front head room, front shoulder room, front leg room, rear head room, rear shoulder room and rear leg room. The 2012 Nissan Pathfinder has the advantage in the area of cargo space.
Safety Ratings Comparison
When comparing crash test ratings from NHTSA, both the 2012 Toyota Highlander and the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder have the same average safety rating of 5 out of 5 Stars.
Pricing
New Asking Price:
-
Used Asking Price:
9998 - 20994
5-Year Depreciation (lower is better):
0.380816
Pricing
New Asking Price:
-
Used Asking Price:
5989 - 15997
5-Year Depreciation (lower is better):
0.530345
Toyota Highlander Scores & Rankings
Overall Score:
8.958187 / 10
Reliability:
8.674561 / 10
Retained Value:
8.2 / 10
Safety:
10.0 / 10
Nissan Pathfinder Scores & Rankings
Overall Score:
8.442308 / 10
Reliability:
8.526926 / 10
Retained Value:
6.8 / 10
Safety:
10.0 / 10
Toyota Highlander Rankings
Ranking
2 out of / 31Ranking
2 out of / 31Ranking
2 out of / 30Ranking
2 out of / 22Ranking
2 out of / 22Ranking
2 out of / 17Ranking
2 out of / 10Ranking
2 out of / 8Ranking
3 out of / 31Ranking
3 out of / 30Ranking
3 out of / 17Ranking
3 out of / 11Ranking
3 out of / 8Ranking
4 out of / 30Ranking
4 out of / 30Ranking
4 out of / 15Ranking
5 out of / 31Ranking
6 out of / 66Ranking
6 out of / 66Ranking
6 out of / 31Ranking
6 out of / 27Ranking
7 out of / 66Ranking
7 out of / 66Ranking
7 out of / 16Ranking
7 out of / 15Ranking
8 out of / 31Ranking
8 out of / 22Ranking
8 out of / 17Ranking
9 out of / 66Ranking
10 out of / 66Ranking
10 out of / 31Ranking
10 out of / 22Ranking
10 out of / 22Ranking
11 out of / 66Ranking
11 out of / 31Ranking
11 out of / 31Ranking
11 out of / 30Ranking
11 out of / 30Ranking
11 out of / 17Ranking
13 out of / 30Ranking
13 out of / 22Ranking
13 out of / 18Ranking
13 out of / 17Ranking
13 out of / 17Ranking
14 out of / 25Ranking
14 out of / 22Ranking
14 out of / 17Ranking
16 out of / 30Ranking
16 out of / 22Ranking
16 out of / 17Ranking
18 out of / 30Ranking
19 out of / 31Ranking
19 out of / 27Ranking
19 out of / 26Ranking
20 out of / 30Ranking
24 out of / 30Ranking
26 out of / 66Ranking
26 out of / 31Ranking
29 out of / 66Ranking
29 out of / 66Ranking
35 out of / 66Ranking
53 out of / 58Nissan Pathfinder Rankings
Ranking
1 out of / 66Ranking
1 out of / 66Ranking
1 out of / 31Ranking
1 out of / 30Ranking
1 out of / 22Ranking
1 out of / 17Ranking
3 out of / 31Ranking
3 out of / 15Ranking
4 out of / 22Ranking
5 out of / 66Ranking
5 out of / 30Ranking
5 out of / 17Ranking
5 out of / 10Ranking
5 out of / 8Ranking
5 out of / 8Ranking
6 out of / 31Ranking
6 out of / 30Ranking
6 out of / 25Ranking
6 out of / 22Ranking
6 out of / 22Ranking
6 out of / 18Ranking
6 out of / 17Ranking
6 out of / 15Ranking
6 out of / 11Ranking
7 out of / 27Ranking
8 out of / 31Ranking
8 out of / 30Ranking
8 out of / 27Ranking
9 out of / 22Ranking
9 out of / 16Ranking
10 out of / 17Ranking
11 out of / 66Ranking
11 out of / 31Ranking
11 out of / 31Ranking
11 out of / 31Ranking
11 out of / 30Ranking
12 out of / 66Ranking
12 out of / 31Ranking
12 out of / 31Ranking
12 out of / 30Ranking
12 out of / 17Ranking
14 out of / 66Ranking
14 out of / 66Ranking
14 out of / 30Ranking
14 out of / 17Ranking
15 out of / 66Ranking
15 out of / 22Ranking
15 out of / 17Ranking
16 out of / 17Ranking
17 out of / 30Ranking
17 out of / 22Ranking
21 out of / 30Ranking
21 out of / 26Ranking
22 out of / 22Ranking
24 out of / 31Ranking
24 out of / 30Ranking
27 out of / 30Ranking
30 out of / 31Ranking
40 out of / 58Ranking
45 out of / 66Ranking
47 out of / 66Ranking
66 out of / 66Summary Review
The Toyota Highlander is among the best-selling, top-rated SUVs in the 3-row segment.
Summary Review
The three-row Nissan Pathfinder was redesigned for the 2022 model year. The new model features a more boxy facade, additional standard safety features, a new nine-speed automatic transmission, and a more premium interior that can now seat up to eight passengers. This much-needed makeover of the aging Pathfinder, after nearly a decade, will better position the midsize SUV in this competitive segment.
Pros and Cons
- Class-leading fuel economy
- No disappointing base engine
- Legendary reliability
- Third-row space a bit cramped
Pros and Cons
- “Right-sized” for this three-row segment (not huge, but certainly not small)
- Selectable modes to optimize optional AWD system
- Impressive suite of standard safety features
- Intuitive touchscreen infotainment system
- No green (hybrid/electric) version available
- Handling can be lackluster
Available Body Styles
SUV
Available Body Styles
SUV
Available Drivetrain Options
Gasoline
Available Drivetrain Options
Gasoline
2012 Toyota Highlander Trim Levels
Base, Limited, SE
2012 Nissan Pathfinder Trim Levels
Silver Edition, SV, LE, LE V8, S
Warranty Information
Warranty, Bumper-to-Bumper:
3 years / 36000 miles
Warranty, Powertrain:
5 years / 60000 miles
Warranty, Roadside Assistance:
2 years / 25000 miles
Warranty Information
Warranty, Bumper-to-Bumper:
3 years / 36000 miles
Warranty, Powertrain:
5 years / 60000 miles
Warranty, Roadside Assistance:
3 years / 36000 miles
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Safety Rating (last 5 year average):
5 out of 5 Stars
IIHS Safety Rating:
Not yet available
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Safety Rating (last 5 year average):
5 out of 5 Stars
IIHS Safety Rating:
Not yet available
Base Drivetrain Specifications
Horsepower:
187 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque:
186 foot-lbs @ 4100 rpm
Power-to-Weight Ratio (higher is better):
0.047 hp per pound
Towing capacity:
1500 lbs
Base Drivetrain Specifications
Horsepower:
266 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
288 foot-lbs @ 4000 rpm
Power-to-Weight Ratio (higher is better):
0.060 hp per pound
Towing capacity:
6000 lbs
Engine Specifications
Engine Size:
2.7 liters
Engine Configuration:
Inline
Number of Cylinders:
4
Transmission:
Automatic
Standard/Optional Drivetrain Type:
FWD / AWD
EPA Fuel Economy
(City/Highway/Combined MPG):
20 / 25 / 22
Range (city/hwy):
384 / 480 miles
Recommended Fuel Type:
Gasoline
Engine Specifications
Engine Size:
4 liters
Engine Configuration:
V
Number of Cylinders:
6
Transmission:
Automatic
Standard/Optional Drivetrain Type:
4X2 / 4X4
EPA Fuel Economy
(City/Highway/Combined MPG):
15 / 22 / 17
Range (city/hwy):
317 / 464 miles
Recommended Fuel Type:
Gasoline
Standard/Optional Features
Keyless Entry:
Standard
Heated Seats
Available
Heated Steering Wheel:
Available
Keyless Ignition:
Available
Leather Upholstery:
Available
Navigation System:
Available
Sunroof/Moonroof:
Available
Adaptive Cruise Control:
N/A
Android Auto:
N/A
Apple Car Play:
N/A
Cooled/Ventilated Seats:
N/A
Wireless Smartphone Charging:
N/A
Standard/Optional Features
Keyless Entry:
Standard
Heated Seats
Available
Heated Steering Wheel:
Available
Keyless Ignition:
Available
Leather Upholstery:
Available
Navigation System:
Available
Sunroof/Moonroof:
Available
Adaptive Cruise Control:
N/A
Android Auto:
N/A
Apple Car Play:
N/A
Cooled/Ventilated Seats:
N/A
Wireless Smartphone Charging:
N/A
Safety Equipment
360-Degree Camera:
N/A
Blind Spot Monitoring:
N/A
Driver Attention Monitoring:
N/A
Forward Collision Warning:
N/A
Lane Departure Warning:
N/A
Lane Keeping Assist:
N/A
Pedestrian Detection:
N/A
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert:
N/A
Rear Seat Reminder:
N/A
Safety Equipment
360-Degree Camera:
N/A
Blind Spot Monitoring:
N/A
Driver Attention Monitoring:
N/A
Forward Collision Warning:
N/A
Lane Departure Warning:
N/A
Lane Keeping Assist:
N/A
Pedestrian Detection:
N/A
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert:
N/A
Rear Seat Reminder:
N/A
Interior Dimensions
Front Head Room:
40.6 inches
Front Leg Room:
43.2 inches
Front Shoulder Room:
59.7 inches
Rear Head Room:
40.1 inches
Rear Leg Room:
38.3 inches
Rear Shoulder Room:
59.5 inches
Cargo Space:
10.3 cubic feet
Cargo Space, 2nd-row seat folded down:
95.4 cubic feet
Overall Interior Volume:
156.0 cubic feet
Interior Dimensions
Front Head Room:
40 inches
Front Leg Room:
42.4 inches
Front Shoulder Room:
58.3 inches
Rear Head Room:
39 inches
Rear Leg Room:
34.2 inches
Rear Shoulder Room:
58.4 inches
Cargo Space:
16.5 cubic feet
Cargo Space, 2nd-row seat folded down:
79.2 cubic feet
Overall Interior Volume:
149.4 cubic feet
Exterior Dimensions
Curb Weight:
3946 lbs
Width:
75.2 inches
Height:
68.1 inches
Length:
188.4 inches
Wheelbase:
109.8 inches
Ground Clearance:
7.8 inches
Exterior Dimensions
Curb Weight:
4428 lbs
Width:
72.8 inches
Height:
72 inches
Length:
192.3 inches
Wheelbase:
112.2 inches
Ground Clearance:
8.7 inches
Standard Wheel/Tire Information
Wheel Size:
17.0 x 7.5 inches
Wheel Type:
aluminum alloy
Tire Size:
P245/65R17
Standard Wheel/Tire Information
Wheel Size:
16.0 x 7.0 inches
Wheel Type:
aluminum alloy
Tire Size:
P245/75R16