Battle For Suv Supremacy: Ford Explorer Vs Passport – Which Reigns Supreme?

In the realm of midsize SUVs, the Ford Explorer and Passport stand as two formidable contenders, each boasting unique strengths and characteristics. Whether you’re a family seeking adventure or an outdoor enthusiast craving ruggedness, this comprehensive comparison will guide you in determining which SUV reigns supreme – the Ford Explorer or the Passport.

Performance and Power: A Tale of Two Engines

The Ford Explorer offers a diverse range of powertrains, catering to various driving preferences. The base engine is a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder that delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving. For those seeking more muscle, the Explorer offers a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that generates an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, transforming the SUV into a veritable powerhouse.

The Passport, on the other hand, features a single engine option – a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. While this engine provides adequate power for most driving situations, it falls short of the Explorer’s optional V6 in terms of sheer muscle and acceleration.

Fuel Efficiency: Finding the Balance

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Explorer equipped with the 2.3-liter engine shines, achieving an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. However, the more potent 3.0-liter V6 sacrifices some fuel efficiency, delivering an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

The Passport, with its sole 3.5-liter V6 engine, offers a slightly better fuel economy than the Explorer’s V6, achieving an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

Interior Space and Comfort: Room for Adventure

The Ford Explorer boasts a spacious and versatile cabin, offering ample room for passengers and cargo. The first two rows of seats provide generous headroom and legroom, ensuring a comfortable ride for all occupants. The third row, while somewhat cramped, can still accommodate adults for short trips.

The Passport’s cabin is also spacious, but it falls slightly short of the Explorer in terms of overall roominess. The first two rows offer similar levels of comfort, but the third row in the Passport is noticeably smaller, making it more suitable for children or occasional use.

Cargo Capacity: Hauling Your Essentials

In terms of cargo capacity, the Explorer reigns supreme, offering a cavernous 18.2 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 47.9 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a remarkable 87.8 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded.

The Passport, while still offering respectable cargo space, falls short of the Explorer’s impressive capacity. It provides 14.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 41.2 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 77.9 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded.

Off-Road Prowess: Exploring the Untamed

For those seeking adventure beyond paved roads, the Ford Explorer offers various off-road-oriented features, including an available all-wheel-drive system with Terrain Management System, which allows drivers to select the optimal driving mode for different terrains. Additionally, the Explorer’s ground clearance of 8.7 inches provides ample clearance for navigating rough terrain.

The Passport, while not as rugged as the Explorer, still offers capable off-road performance with its standard all-wheel-drive system and 8.1 inches of ground clearance. However, it lacks the Explorer’s Terrain Management System, limiting its versatility in tackling challenging off-road conditions.

Safety Features: Protecting Your Journey

Both the Ford Explorer and Passport come equipped with an array of advanced safety features to ensure the well-being of occupants and other road users. Standard features include airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control. Additionally, both SUVs offer a variety of driver-assistance technologies, such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

Verdict: Choosing Your Ideal SUV

The Ford Explorer and Passport are both excellent midsize SUVs with their unique strengths and characteristics. The Explorer offers more powerful engine options, a more spacious interior, and superior cargo capacity, making it an ideal choice for families and those who frequently embark on road trips or outdoor adventures.

The Passport, on the other hand, offers a more fuel-efficient engine, a slightly more affordable price tag, and a comfortable cabin, making it a compelling option for those seeking a versatile SUV for everyday use and occasional off-road excursions.

Ultimately, the decision between the Ford Explorer and Passport depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Both SUVs offer exceptional driving experiences, and the choice between them comes down to the nuances that resonate most strongly with you.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Which SUV has better towing capacity: the Explorer or Passport?

A: The Ford Explorer offers superior towing capacity compared to the Passport. Properly equipped, the Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds, while the Passport’s maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds.

Q: Does the Explorer or Passport offer a hybrid or electric powertrain option?

A: Currently, neither the Ford Explorer nor the Passport offers a hybrid or electric powertrain option. However, Ford has announced plans to introduce a hybrid version of the Explorer in the near future.

Q: Which SUV has a better infotainment system: the Explorer or Passport?

A: Both the Ford Explorer and Passport come equipped with user-friendly infotainment systems. The Explorer features the SYNC 3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen, while the Passport offers the HondaLink infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen. Both systems provide smartphone integration, navigation, and a variety of entertainment options.