Ford Explorer Vs. Nissan Patrol: Which Rugged Suv Reins Supreme In 2023?

The Ford Explorer and Nissan Patrol are two iconic SUVs that have earned a reputation for their ruggedness, capability, and off-road prowess. Both vehicles have a long history of conquering challenging terrains and providing drivers with an exhilarating driving experience. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key aspects of these two SUVs, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision about which one suits your needs and preferences best.

Performance and Power: Unleashing the Beasts

1. Engine Options and Powertrains:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers a range of engine options, including a 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder, a 3.0L EcoBoost V6, and a 3.3L Hybrid V6. The 3.0L EcoBoost V6 produces 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, providing exhilarating acceleration and towing capabilities.
• Nissan Patrol: The Patrol, on the other hand, is powered by a single engine option – a mighty 5.6L V8. This engine generates 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, delivering impressive performance both on and off the road.

2. Transmission and Drivetrain:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer comes standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive (RWD). All-wheel drive (AWD) is available as an option, providing enhanced traction and stability in challenging conditions.
• Nissan Patrol: The Patrol, in contrast, features a 7-speed automatic transmission and a part-time 4WD system with a low-range transfer case. This setup allows drivers to switch between 2WD, 4WD High, and 4WD Low, depending on the terrain and driving conditions.

Capability and Off-Road Prowess: Conquering the Untamed

1. Ground Clearance and Approach/Departure Angles:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers a respectable ground clearance of 8.7 inches, along with approach and departure angles of 22.4 degrees and 23.7 degrees, respectively. These angles allow the Explorer to tackle moderate off-road obstacles with confidence.
• Nissan Patrol: The Patrol boasts a more impressive ground clearance of 9.8 inches, coupled with approach and departure angles of 34.4 degrees and 26.3 degrees, respectively. These angles provide the Patrol with exceptional clearance and the ability to navigate steep inclines and declines with ease.

2. Four-Wheel Drive Systems:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer’s AWD system utilizes intelligent terrain management technology, which automatically adjusts the vehicle’s settings to optimize traction and stability based on the driving conditions.
• Nissan Patrol: The Patrol’s part-time 4WD system with a low-range transfer case provides drivers with greater control and versatility when tackling challenging off-road situations. The low-range gearing allows for precise and controlled crawling over rocks and steep inclines.

Interior and Comfort: Embracing Luxury and Functionality

1. Seating Capacity and Cargo Space:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers seating for up to seven passengers, providing ample room for family and friends. Behind the third row, it offers 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 87.8 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down.
• Nissan Patrol: The Patrol also seats up to seven passengers and provides a generous 14.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. With the second and third rows folded, the cargo capacity expands to a cavernous 95.1 cubic feet.

2. Features and Amenities:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer’s interior is well-equipped with features such as a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, and heated and ventilated front seats.
• Nissan Patrol: The Patrol’s cabin exudes luxury with features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, a 13-speaker Bose sound system, and plush leather upholstery. It also offers a dual-screen rear entertainment system for passengers’ enjoyment.

Safety and Driver Assistance: Ensuring Peace of Mind

1. Standard Safety Features:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
• Nissan Patrol: The Patrol also boasts an impressive array of standard safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and intelligent cruise control.

2. Available Driver Assistance Systems:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers available features such as adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, evasive steering assist, and intersection assist.
• Nissan Patrol: The Patrol’s available driver assistance systems include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and a 360-degree camera system for enhanced visibility.

Reliability and Maintenance: Ensuring Long-Term Satisfaction

1. Reliability Ratings:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer has received mixed reliability ratings from various sources, with some surveys indicating potential issues with its transmission and infotainment system.
• Nissan Patrol: The Patrol, on the other hand, has generally received more favorable reliability ratings, with owners reporting fewer problems over time.

2. Maintenance Costs:

• Ford Explorer: Maintenance costs for the Explorer can vary depending on the model year and driving conditions. However, on average, owners can expect to pay around $500 to $600 per year for routine maintenance.
• Nissan Patrol: The Patrol’s maintenance costs are typically higher than the Explorer, with owners reporting an average annual expenditure of around $700 to $800 for routine maintenance.

Price and Value: Determining the Best Bang for Your Buck

1. Starting Prices:

• Ford Explorer: The Ford Explorer has a starting price of around $33,000 for the base XLT trim.
• Nissan Patrol: The Nissan Patrol, on the other hand, starts at a higher price point of around $53,000 for the base S trim.

2. Trim Levels and Options:

• Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers various trim levels and packages, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to their specific needs and preferences.
• Nissan Patrol: The Patrol also offers a range of trim levels and options, but its higher starting price may limit the accessibility of certain features for budget-conscious buyers.

Key Points: Unveiling the Ultimate Off-Road Champion

The Ford Explorer and Nissan Patrol are both compelling choices for those seeking a capable and versatile SUV. However, the choice between these two titans ultimately depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. If you prioritize affordability, fuel efficiency, and a well-rounded package, the Ford Explorer might be the better choice. But if you’re willing to pay a premium for exceptional off-road prowess, a more luxurious interior, and a higher towing capacity, the Nissan Patrol is the one to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Which SUV offers better fuel economy?

• The Ford Explorer offers better fuel economy than the Nissan Patrol, with EPA-estimated ratings of up to 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for the 2.3L EcoBoost engine. The Patrol, with its larger V8 engine, has EPA-estimated ratings of 13 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.

2. Which SUV has a higher towing capacity?

• The Nissan Patrol has a higher towing capacity than the Ford Explorer. The Patrol can tow up to 8,500 pounds, while the Explorer’s maximum towing capacity is 5,600 pounds.

3. Which SUV is better for off-roading?

• The Nissan Patrol is generally considered to be better for off-roading than the Ford Explorer. Its superior ground clearance, more capable four-wheel drive system, and advanced off-road features make it a more formidable choice for tackling challenging terrain.