Starting at
Starting at
| 300-400 | Horsepower (hp) | 284-295 |
| 310-415 | Torque (lb-ft) | 259-270 |
| 87.8 | Cargo Space (cu.ft.) | 80.5 |
The unprecedented popularity of the SUV in recent years has produced a considerable amount of makes and models that thrive on innovation and performance. As the current model year has already shown us, the marketplace for SUVs is among the most competitive, as the vehicle class has become the ideal choice for family-oriented consumers and still remains popular among those who enjoy off-roading and other adventures that take place away from the confines and trappings of civilization. Even before the boom in popularity took place, the Ford Explorer was a major staple of the blue brand in the early 1990s and has remained a cornerstone of the industry ever since. With its legacy firmly in place, there are competitors who are all too eager to remove the Explorer from its perch atop the mountain, and the Nissan Pathfinder is certainly one of them. Today, we’re examining these two titans in a contest for SUV supremacy. It’s the 2023 Ford Explorer vs 2023 Nissan Pathfinder. Only one can wear the crown and rule the kingdom with a heavy brow, so let’s begin.
Around the time the Ford Explorer made its debut, the thought process that dominated the SUV market was one of “bigger is better.” Larger sizes, bigger powertrains, and massive fuel consumption were some of the attributes that the vehicle was commonly known for. As SUVs have grown more accessible, many manufacturers have taken steps to scale down the size and powertrain offerings. As a result, today’s SUVs are more agile and easier on fuel consumption but have managed to retain the virtues of storage space and safety. While there’s still a need for performance among some drivers, practicality is the new driving force behind many of the designs that are currently on the marketplace.
As has been par for the course in recent years, Nissan has streamlined production when it comes to the powertrains that it equips its vehicles with, and the Pathfinder is certainly no exception to this. Beneath the hoof of the Pathfinder is a 3.5L V6. The engine has an adequate focus on performance, with 284 horsepower and the capability to generate 259 lb-ft of torque. Remarkably, Nissan has chosen to move away from its CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission) in favor of a nine-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is the standard drivetrain, but four-wheel drive is available on each trim level––except for the Rock Creek trim, which only comes with four-wheel drive. At its best, the Pathfinder offers consumers an average of 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway when you opt for the four-wheel drive model.
While some manufacturers have looked to streamline production, Ford continues to thrive on one of its greatest attributes, versatility. Ford’s long-standing reputation in the performance factor is exemplified in the different powertrain options it offers its customers. Even at its most basic, the Explorer manages to outperform the Pathfinder.
The standard engine takes the form of a turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine that belts out 300 horsepower, instantly outclassing the Nissan’s sole V6 by an adequate amount. For those who are looking to take performance to new heights, a 3.0L turbocharged V6, which is available on the upper trim levels, roars past the competition with 400 horsepower. For those who want to grasp a hold of the advantages of the Explorer but cut back on fuel costs, Ford developed a hybrid powertrain for the 2020 model year. Composed of a 3.3L V6 and an electric motor for a total of 318 horsepower, thrifty drivers will be glad to know they can go further for less, with an average of 27 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. No matter which engine the Explorer is equipped with, pairing it with a standard ten-speed automatic transmission makes for excellent performance and handling. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available, which has been consistent with the Explorer since its formative years.
While some drivers look for performance in the vehicles they choose to drive, the interior is where the SUV shines brightest, as the vehicle class is known for carrying cargo and passengers to various destinations. The modern SUV should provide comfort and cargo room and not skimp on the amenities that we’ve come to rely upon for entertainment and enjoyment.
A word that can be used to describe the interior design of the trucks and SUVs that Nissan has manufactured in recent years is “Spartan.” While the brand certainly has always had its finger on the pulse of technology, comfort has sometimes taken a back seat. The 2023 edition of the Pathfinder sees an overall improvement in design and comfort, though it has an aesthetic more resembling a pickup truck than a family-oriented method of transportation. The highlight is the unique infotainment screen, which stretches out to eight inches on base trims, and a larger nine-inch screen is available on others. Some of the other features that make the ride enjoyable––such as navigation, Sirius XM, and a wi-fi hotspot––are available but limited to the upper levels of trim, as is a high-end Bose stereo system which is much more appealing than the standard six-speaker setup.
In terms of placement of items and design, the Explorer and Pathfinder are very similar to one another. However, we were more impressed by the inviting and comforting nature that’s found in the Ford Explorer. The interior in question is also anchored by an eight-inch infotainment screen that sits in the center of a refined two-toned color scheme that’s appealing to families and adventurers alike. Perhaps one of the best advantages that the Explorer has over the Pathfinder is that it offers a more immersive experience with its standard features. A wi-fi hotspot, which is only available on select trims of the Pathfinder, is standard on the Explorer. Some of the available features are too enticing to pass up, such as voice-activated navigation and a rear seat entertainment system, which is ideal for passengers of the younger and shorter variety. Both vehicles have ample room for storage. While the Pathfinder offers 80.5 cubic feet of available room for provisions and luggage, the Explorer once again proves its versatility by expanding this specification to 87.8 cubic feet.
Safety is always the most important aspect of any vehicle you purchase. In the modern age of the automotive industry, technological advancements have led to some of the most impressive safety and driving assistance features that might have been thought of as impossible just a decade ago. Since the industry is one that’s fueled by trends, many features offered by the different manufacturers are very similar and even the same. It’s not a matter of what’s available but what comes standard and isn’t obscured by a price tag or upper trim level.
Both vehicles come with a significant amount of standard safety features. You'll find the Pre-Collision Assist in the Explorer and the equivalent Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection in the Pathfinder. Both models come with blind-spot detection with the Blind Spot Information System in the Ford model and Blind Spot Warning in Nissan's. You'll also find the Lane-Keeping System (Ford)/Lane Departure Warning (Nissan) and Auto High-Beam Headlamps (Ford)/High Beam Assist (Nissan).
Nissan and Ford both have significant histories of making safe vehicles, and both have continually placed emphasis on advancing technology for the benefit of the customers who rely on their designs. This premise is certainly found in some of the available features that each vehicle has to offer. When it comes to comparing the safety attributes of the Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder, there appears to be no clear-cut winner.
While both models are good, the Ford Explorer manages to outclass the Nissan Pathfinder and retain its crown as the definitive SUV for the public at large. With performance that adheres to what drivers look for and a stylish interior that provides comfort and sophistication during your travels, it’s no wonder why the Explorer remains the popular choice among drivers.
When it comes to experiencing the very best that Ford has to offer, look no further than the experts at DePaula Ford to provide you with the very best in selection and service. We’ll go over the various models, trims, and accessories to help you make an informed decision that will benefit you for several years to come. Speaking of which, the Explorer has a lengthy track record of going the distance, and with our parts and service department, you can stay up to date on all of your routine maintenance to ensure your Ford Explorer lasts as long as possible. Experience the difference at DePaula Ford, and let us help you reach the perfect destination.
*Images, fuel economy, and other stats, may reflect higher trim levels, options, or features that may result in a higher cost from the starting MSRP.
MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, additional options, and possible destination charges. Dealers set own prices.
