2026 Honda CR-V EX vs 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S
$4,850 less and 6 mpg better vs 94 more hp and 80 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $4,850 price gap, 190 vs 284 hp, 29 vs 23 MPG.
The CR-V EX leads on $4,850 less, 6 MPG better. The Pathfinder S leads on 94 more hp, 80 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 | 2026 Honda CR-V EX | 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $34,650 | $39,500 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 284 hp |
| Torque | 179 lb-ft | 259 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,500/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,616 lbs | 4,482 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 114.2" |
| Length | 184.8" | 197.7" |
| Width | 73.5" | 77.9" |
| Height | 66.5" | 70.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Honda CR-V EX and 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX starts at $34,650, $4,850 less than the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S at $39,500. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $86/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda CR-V EX?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,850 in your pocket and the 2026 Honda CR-V EX covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $378/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S is the stronger pick when the extra 94 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda CR-V EX or 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX rates 29 combined MPG, 6 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda CR-V EX or 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S produces 284 hp, 94 more than the 2026 Honda CR-V EX at 190 hp. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S also leads in torque at 259 lb-ft vs 179 lb-ft. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S uses a 3.5L V6. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Honda CR-V EX, 4WD on the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S.
Is the 2026 Honda CR-V EX bigger than the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S is 12.9″ longer at 197.7″ vs 184.8″. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S has a 7.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Honda CR-V EX and 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX comes with AWD, while the 2026 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?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda CR-V trims, Nissan trims, Nissan Pathfinder trims
- 2026 Honda CR-V EX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
CR-V vs Pathfinder: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX and 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $4,850 gap adds up to $86/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S uses a 3.5L V6. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S has 94 more hp (284 vs 190). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S adds 80 more lb-ft of torque (259 vs 179), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Drivetrains differ: AWD on the 2026 Honda CR-V EX, 4WD on the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S.
Running Costs: CR-V vs Pathfinder
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX saves roughly $378/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,890. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S is 12.9″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S has a 7.9″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S weighs 866 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Honda CR-V EX when you want to keep $4,850 in your pocket and the 2026 Honda CR-V EX covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S when the extra 94 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $86/month more, the 2026 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 Honda or Nissan or any dealership.