The 7-seater SUV segment in the UAE is no longer just about space. Today, buyers want technology, safety, performance, and long-term confidence in ownership. Two serious contenders stand out in this category: the Nissan Pathfinder SL vs the MG RX9 LUX.
Both promise premium comfort, advanced safety systems, and commanding road presence. But which one truly delivers better value where it matters?
Let’s break it down.
Meet the Contenders
Nissan Pathfinder SL
The Nissan Pathfinder SL 4WD sits at the premium end of Nissan’s three-row SUV lineup in the UAE. Launched in 2022 in its latest generation, it returned with a more rugged, squared-off design, moving away from the softer crossover identity of its predecessor.
The SL trim focuses on comfort, safety, and everyday practicality, making it a strong choice for families who prioritize space and long-term reliability.
Its strengths include strong resale value in the UAE, a wide service network, refined driver-assistance systems and balanced ride comfort. Its weaknesses include increasing competition from hybrid-powered rivals and competitors offering more aggressive feature-to-price ratios.
In the UAE market, it competes with the Toyota Highlander, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Ford Explorer and MG RX9.
Nissan Pathfinder SL Price in UAE
Starting price in AED 158,000
MG RX9 LUX
The MG RX9 launched globally in 2022 and entered the UAE market shortly after as MG’s bold move into the large three-row SUV segment. It represents a clear step up for the brand, targeting families who want bold styling, generous interior space, and a feature-loaded package.
The LUX trim is the top specification, emphasizing technology, comfort and modern design.
Its strengths include a spacious cabin, strong turbo torque, modern interior layout and an extensive list of safety and tech features. Its weaknesses include lower resale value compared to established Japanese rivals and a long-term reliability perception that is still developing in the UAE.
It competes directly with the Pathfinder, Palisade, Telluride, Highlander and Explorer.
MG RX9 LUX Price in UAE
Starting price in AED 120,189
Performance Comparison
Let’s break down how both SUVs perform on paper and on the road.
| Nissan Pathfinder SL | Specs | MG RX9 LUX |
| 3.5L V6 | Engine | 2.0L Turbo |
| Naturally Aspirated | Forced Induction | Turbocharged |
| 9-speed AT | Transmission | 9-speed AT |
| Intelligent 4WD | Drivetrain | Intelligent 4WD |
| 271 hp | Power | 201 hp |
| 340 Nm | Torque | 350 Nm |
| 11.2 km/l | Fuel Economy | 11.1 km/l |
| 7.6 sec | 0-100 KPH | 9.0 s |
| 192 km/h | Top Speed | 200 km/h |
| 1,958-2,044 kg | Weight | 2,115-2,180 kg |
Takeaways
The Pathfinder clearly leads in horsepower and acceleration. Its naturally aspirated V6 delivers smoother, more linear power, making it better suited for long-distance highway driving.
The RX9 counters with slightly higher torque thanks to its turbocharged engine, which may feel responsive at lower speeds. If towing matters, the Pathfinder’s 1,500 kg capacity gives it a practical advantage.
Cabin Comfort
This is where daily usability and comfort truly matter.
| Nissan Pathfinder SL | Specs | MG RX9 LUX |
| 7 | No. of seats | 7 |
| Quilted leather | Seat Material | Leather Seats |
| Standard | Paddle Shifters | Standard |
| Tri-Zone Automatic | Climate Control | Tri-zone climate |
| 12.3” digital cluster + HUD | Multimedia | dual 12.3” full colour displays+12.3′ Touch Screen |
| Standard | Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | Standard |
| Standard | Wireless charging | Standard |
| Standard | Ambient Lighting | Standard |
| Panoramic moonroof | Sunroof | Panoramic sunroof |
| Bose Premium Audio System with 12 Speakers | Sound System | Bose 12-speaker |
| Vantilated front seat, EZ FLEX second row | Seat Functions | Ventilated front seats/140° reclining second row |
| 459 L | Boot Capacity | 500 L |
Takeaways
The RX9 offers slightly more cargo capacity with all seats in use. However, the Pathfinder feels more premium from a driver’s perspective, due to its head-up display, refined seat materials and practical EZ FLEX second-row access.
If interior screen presence matters most, both are competitive. If driver-focused luxury and refinement matter more, the Pathfinder edges ahead.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Because in a family SUV, safety is non-negotiable.
| Nissan Pathfinder SL | Specs | MG RX9 LUX |
| 8 Airbags | Airbags | 6 Airbags |
| Standard | Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) | Standard |
| Standard | Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) | Standard |
| Standard | Automated Emergency Braking (AEB) | Standard |
| Intelligent Cruise Control | Cruise Control | Adaptive Cruise Control |
| Standard | Electronic Power Steering (EPS) | Standard |
| Standard | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) | Standard |
| Standard | Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) | Standard |
| Standard | Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) | Standard |
| Standard | Hill Start Assist (HSA) | Standard |
| Standard | Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) | Standard |
| Standard | Traction Control (TRC) | Standard |
| Standard | Heads-Up Display (HUD) | Optional |
| Standard | Lane Departure Assist | Standard |
| Standard | Lane Change Assist | Standard |
| Standard | 360 Cameras | Standard |
| Standard | Parking Sensors | Standard |
Takeaways
Both SUVs offer comprehensive ADAS coverage. The Pathfinder’s ProPILOT Assist system feels more mature and refined on highways, while the RX9 delivers an impressive list of features for its price bracket.
Nissan Pathfinder SL vs MG RX9 LUX UAE 2026: Editor’s POV
Here is the unfiltered truth.
The Nissan Pathfinder is the rational powerhouse. It delivers proven reliability, stronger performance, higher towing capability, and stronger resale confidence. It is the SUV you buy with long-term ownership in mind.
The MG RX9 is the ambitious disruptor. It feels modern, tech-forward and aggressively equipped. It gives you more visible features and more equipment for the money.
- Choose the Pathfinder if you prioritize reliability, V6 performance, towing strength, and long-term value.
- Choose the RX9 if you want maximum features, bold styling and strong value for money.
Final Verdict
The Nissan Pathfinder SL vs MG RX9 LUX comparison highlights two distinct philosophies in the UAE’s three-row SUV segment. The Pathfinder represents established strength, long-term ownership confidence, and refined performance.
The RX9 represents bold innovation, aggressive pricing, and feature-rich appeal.
There is no wrong choice here, only different priorities. Today’s SUV market gives you two clear paths, proven heritage or value-driven disruption.
For more expert comparisons, ownership insights and the latest UAE automotive updates, keep following the ArabWheels Blog.