I know they're different, but they're the same. Mechanically under their respective wardrobes the QX60 and the Pathfinder are identical. Ok fine, one subtle nuance, the QX60's VQV6 is tuned for an extra 5 hp and 8 lb-fts of torque, good god.
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The mechanics may be the same but their applications differ, slightly. Both use the aforementioned VQV6 routed by a CVT gearbox and out through similar AWD systems. The Key difference is that Pathfinder allows drivers to select between 2WD, 4WD and Auto. While QX60 locks you into Auto.
Ok so now that's established, what does your extra cash garner?
Straight base MSRP shows QX60 starting at $42,450 while Pathfinder opens at $29,998. However an entry level Pathfinder is pallid in spades compared to the plush entry level package of the Infiniti. Perhaps its better to look at this from the context of a Pathfinder SL plus AWD at $37,698. The SL package narrows the gap and makes for a fairer comparison.
So thats a delta of ~$6,500. Pathfinder SL comes standard with heated front and second row seats while the heated second row is still an option on the QX60. Also included with the SL and available on the QX60 is a remote start system, handy for a polar vortex or two!
Where the Pathfinder begins to betray its price is in the styling department. Obviously this is a subjective metric but its plain to see that the QX60 is a much more svelte design. Flowing beltline, sculpted fenders and the unique D pillar kink all add up to a much sexier package. The interior is also one of these most plush in
class.
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Where dichotomy really begins to peak through is looking at options available. Infiniti makes available a host or wizard gizmos like lane departure, brake assist, forward collision warning, back up accident prevention and an intelligent cruise control system. Tick off all those boxes and watch your price ratchet upwards by a cool $14,000.
Upgrading to the QX60 doens't just net you the right to spend more money, In my opinion the most significant difference between the two is warranty. See the Pathfinder offers you a standard warranty of three years, while powertrain is under warranty for five. QX60 meanwhile offers you a four year basic warranty and six years on the powertrain. That difference is nearly enough to justify the $6,500 difference.
I get it some of you are into the emotional experience of luxury, but some of you aren't. This is no way a negative spin on the QX60 or the Pathfinder, but simply an observation.
The mechanics may be the same but their applications differ, slightly. Both use the aforementioned VQV6 routed by a CVT gearbox and out through similar AWD systems. The Key difference is that Pathfinder allows drivers to select between 2WD, 4WD and Auto. While QX60 locks you into Auto.
Ok so now that's established, what does your extra cash garner?
Straight base MSRP shows QX60 starting at $42,450 while Pathfinder opens at $29,998. However an entry level Pathfinder is pallid in spades compared to the plush entry level package of the Infiniti. Perhaps its better to look at this from the context of a Pathfinder SL plus AWD at $37,698. The SL package narrows the gap and makes for a fairer comparison.
So thats a delta of ~$6,500. Pathfinder SL comes standard with heated front and second row seats while the heated second row is still an option on the QX60. Also included with the SL and available on the QX60 is a remote start system, handy for a polar vortex or two!
Where the Pathfinder begins to betray its price is in the styling department. Obviously this is a subjective metric but its plain to see that the QX60 is a much more svelte design. Flowing beltline, sculpted fenders and the unique D pillar kink all add up to a much sexier package. The interior is also one of these most plush in
class.
Where dichotomy really begins to peak through is looking at options available. Infiniti makes available a host or wizard gizmos like lane departure, brake assist, forward collision warning, back up accident prevention and an intelligent cruise control system. Tick off all those boxes and watch your price ratchet upwards by a cool $14,000.
Upgrading to the QX60 doens't just net you the right to spend more money, In my opinion the most significant difference between the two is warranty. See the Pathfinder offers you a standard warranty of three years, while powertrain is under warranty for five. QX60 meanwhile offers you a four year basic warranty and six years on the powertrain. That difference is nearly enough to justify the $6,500 difference.
I get it some of you are into the emotional experience of luxury, but some of you aren't. This is no way a negative spin on the QX60 or the Pathfinder, but simply an observation.
