2026 Nissan Pathfinder S vs 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation
109 more hp and 56 more lb-ft torque vs $7,400 less and 2 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 284 vs 175 hp, 23 vs 25 MPG.
The Pathfinder S leads on 109 more hp, 56 more lb-ft torque. The Terrain Elevation leads on $7,400 less, 2 MPG better. 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 Nissan Pathfinder S | 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $39,500 | $32,100 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 284 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 259 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 27 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 23 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.5 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,482 lbs | 3,598 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 114.2" | 107.5" |
| Length | 197.7" | 181.0" |
| Width | 77.9" | 74.5" |
| Height | 70.9" | 65.8" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S and 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation starts at $32,100, $7,400 less than the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S at $39,500. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $131/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S is the stronger pick when the extra 109 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation is the stronger pick when you want to keep $7,400 in your pocket and the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $146/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S or 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation rates 25 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S or 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S produces 284 hp, 109 more than the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation at 175 hp. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S also leads in torque at 259 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S runs a 3.5L V6; the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: 4WD on the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S, AWD on the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation.
Is the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S bigger than the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S is 16.7″ longer at 197.7″ vs 181.0″. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S has a 6.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S and 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S comes with 4WD, while the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation uses AWD. 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: Nissan trims, Nissan Pathfinder trims, GMC trims, GMC Terrain trims
- 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Pathfinder–Terrain Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Pathfinder and Terrain compare. The $-7,400 gap adds up to $131/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 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S runs a 3.5L V6; the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S has 109 more hp (284 vs 175). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S adds 56 more lb-ft of torque (259 vs 203), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Drivetrains differ: 4WD on the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S, AWD on the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation saves roughly $146/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $730.
Living With the Pathfinder vs the Terrain
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S is 16.7″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S has a 6.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S weighs 884 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 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S when the extra 109 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation when you want to keep $7,400 in your pocket and the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation covers your needs.
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 Nissan or GMC or any dealership.