What To Know
- The mid-size SUV segment is a fiercely competitive battleground, with automakers vying for the attention of discerning drivers seeking a blend of versatility, capability, and comfort.
- Both the Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder offer a range of powertrain options to suit various needs and preferences.
- 3-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the Pathfinder returns 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
The mid-size SUV segment is a fiercely competitive battleground, with automakers vying for the attention of discerning drivers seeking a blend of versatility, capability, and comfort. Two prominent contenders in this segment are the Ford Explorer and the Nissan Pathfinder. Both vehicles offer a compelling package of features, making the choice between them a challenging one. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each SUV, helping you make an informed decision.
1. Performance and Power: A Close Match
Both the Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder offer a range of powertrain options to suit various needs and preferences. The Explorer boasts a choice of two turbocharged engines: a 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-4 and a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6. The former produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the latter delivers an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Pathfinder, on the other hand, comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. While the Pathfinder’s engine may seem less powerful on paper, it provides adequate performance for most driving situations.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Explorer and Pathfinder are comparable. The Explorer with the 2.3-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the Pathfinder returns 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Explorer with the 3.0-liter engine is slightly less efficient, with an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
2. Capability and Off-Road Prowess: The Explorer Takes the Lead
When it comes to off-road capability, the Ford Explorer has a slight edge over the Nissan Pathfinder. The Explorer offers an available Terrain Management System with seven selectable drive modes, including Normal, Mud/Ruts, Sand, and Rock Crawl, which optimize the vehicle’s performance for various terrains. Additionally, the Explorer boasts a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, compared to the Pathfinder’s 7.9 inches, providing better obstacle clearance.
However, both SUVs feature intelligent four-wheel drive systems that provide excellent traction and stability on slippery or uneven surfaces. The Pathfinder’s Intelligent 4×4 system can automatically switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive as needed, while the Explorer’s intelligent four-wheel drive system constantly monitors road conditions and adjusts torque distribution accordingly.
3. Interior Space and Comfort: A Roomy Experience in Both
Both the Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder offer spacious interiors with ample seating for up to seven passengers. The Explorer provides 15.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which expands to 87.8 cubic feet with both rear rows folded down. The Pathfinder offers slightly more cargo space, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 79.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down.
In terms of comfort, both SUVs offer supportive seats and a quiet cabin environment. The Explorer features an available panoramic vista roof that floods the cabin with natural light, while the Pathfinder’s Tri-Zone Automatic Temperature Control system ensures optimal comfort for all passengers.
4. Technology and Infotainment: A Battle of Features
The Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder are well-equipped with a range of advanced technology and infotainment features. The Explorer boasts a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with the SYNC 4A infotainment system, which offers intuitive controls, voice recognition, and smartphone integration. The Pathfinder features a slightly smaller 9-inch touchscreen display with the NissanConnect infotainment system, which also offers a user-friendly interface and various connectivity options.
Both SUVs offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Explorer adds a few more advanced features, such as adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and evasive steering assist.
5. Price and Value: A Competitive Rivalry
The Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder are priced competitively, with a starting price of around $33,000 for the base trims. However, the Explorer offers a wider range of trim levels and options, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to their specific needs and preferences. The Pathfinder, on the other hand, has a simpler trim structure with fewer options, making it easier to choose the right model.
6. Reliability and Ownership Experience: A History of Excellence
Both the Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder have a solid reputation for reliability and durability. The Explorer has received consistently high ratings from consumer review websites, while the Pathfinder has been praised for its low maintenance costs and impressive longevity. Both SUVs are backed by comprehensive warranty coverage, providing peace of mind to their owners.
7. Which One Should You Choose? A Matter of Personal Preference
The choice between the Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder ultimately depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. If you prioritize off-road capability and a wider range of powertrain options, the Explorer is an excellent choice. However, if you seek a more affordable and fuel-efficient SUV with a spacious interior and a user-friendly infotainment system, the Pathfinder is a compelling option.
The Bottom Line: Embark on Your SUV Adventure
The Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder are two exceptional mid-size SUVs that offer a compelling blend of performance, capability, and comfort. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker navigating rugged terrains or a family-oriented driver prioritizing space and versatility, both vehicles deliver a satisfying ownership experience. Take the time to explore their features, compare their specifications, and test drive each SUV to determine which one aligns best with your lifestyle and driving needs.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which SUV offers better fuel economy, the Ford Explorer or the Nissan Pathfinder?
A: The Nissan Pathfinder offers slightly better fuel economy than the Ford Explorer, with an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway compared to the Explorer’s 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Q: Does the Ford Explorer have more cargo space than the Nissan Pathfinder?
A: The Ford Explorer offers slightly less cargo space than the Nissan Pathfinder. The Explorer provides 15.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which expands to 87.8 cubic feet with both rear rows folded down, while the Pathfinder offers 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 79.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down.
Q: Which SUV has a more advanced infotainment system, the Ford Explorer or the Nissan Pathfinder?
A: The Ford Explorer features a more advanced infotainment system than the Nissan Pathfinder. The Explorer boasts a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with the SYNC 4A infotainment system, which offers a more intuitive interface, voice recognition, and smartphone integration compared to the Pathfinder’s 9-inch touchscreen display with the NissanConnect infotainment system.