2025 Hyundai Tucson SE vs 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S
$8,195 less and 3 mpg better vs 97 more hp and 81 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $8,195 price gap, 187 vs 284 hp, 26 vs 23 MPG.
The Tucson SE leads on $8,195 less, 3 MPG better. The Pathfinder S leads on 97 more hp, 81 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE | 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $30,205 | $38,400 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 284 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 259 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.3 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,572 lbs | 4,484 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.5" | 114.2" |
| Length | 182.7" | 197.7" |
| Width | 73.4" | 77.9" |
| Height | 66.3" | 70.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE and 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE starts at $30,205, $8,195 less than the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S at $38,400. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $144/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $8,195 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $211/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S is the stronger pick when the extra 97 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE or 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE rates 26 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE or 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S produces 284 hp, 97 more than the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE at 187 hp. The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S also leads in torque at 259 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S uses a 3.5L V6. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE, 4WD on the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE bigger than the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S is 15.0″ longer at 197.7″ vs 182.7″. The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE and 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE comes with AWD, while the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S uses 4WD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Tucson comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Nissan Pathfinder offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Tucson trims, Nissan trims, Nissan Pathfinder trims
- 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Tucson–Pathfinder Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Tucson and Pathfinder compare. The $8,195 gap adds up to $144/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S uses a 3.5L V6. The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S has 97 more hp (284 vs 187). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S adds 81 more lb-ft of torque (259 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Drivetrains differ: AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE, 4WD on the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE saves roughly $211/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,055. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Living With the Tucson vs the Pathfinder
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S is 15.0″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S weighs 912 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE when you want to keep $8,195 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S when the extra 97 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $144/month more, the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Hyundai or Nissan or any dealership.