The difference between the 2 Pathlite are small but noticeable (by order of "importance").
- Carbon seat post vs Alu seat post: carbon seat posts have some compliance, while alu ones have none. It is noticeable on rough gravel or cobble stones, personally, it's an upgrade that I do systematically: with an alu seat post, I have back pain after 1h-1h30, while I have no issues with carbon ones (but I live in a region with loads of cobblestones).
- XT vs Deore shifter: the XT shifter can change in one stroke 4 speeds down, 2 up, while the Deore does 3 down/1 up. XT is also more reactive.
- XT vs MT200 brakes: slightly more powerful.
- There's a 700g weight difference.
- Thru-axles vs Quick Release (for the wheels): Thru axle is considered to be a better standard (more frame rigidity, easier positioning of the wheels). Quick release is not bad per se, my main criticism is that it becomes harder and harder to find good wheels with this standard, as it's a standard that is only used in entry level bikes.

The Pathlite 6 is for me a good bike, but if budget allows it, I'd take the 7. Mostly because of the axles, that cannot be changed afterwards, but I appreciate the other refinements as well.

Otherwise, it's for me a very good category, that is understated. They are very good on gravel, and better on trails that MTBers will admit.

On the Roadlite vs Pathlite choice, up to your preferences. The Roadlite seems very nice if you plan to stay on tarmac and smooth gravel. But if you plan to leave tarmac, you'll regret not having wider tires and the front suspension (Air suspensions are quite nice, if maintained properly). So the choice the question is whether you value more versatility or efficiency on tarmac.