Starting at
Starting at
| 400 | Horsepower (hp) | 295 |
| 415 | Torque (lb-ft) | 270 |
| 87.8 | Cargo Space (cu.ft.) | 80.5 |
When it comes to three-row midsize SUVs, there are brands that tend to dominate the segment, and one of these is Ford. The Ford Explorer has been wowing crowds since the early 90s, offering drivers an SUV that can do it all. From transporting families to all the places they need to go to embarking on adventures in the wilderness, the Explorer is capable of meeting any challenge head on. There are other midsize SUVs out there that often compete with the Explorer and one of them is the Nissan Pathfinder, which made its debut a few years prior to the Explorer in the late 80s. Known for its rugged appeal and undeniable Nissan reliability coursing through it, the Pathfinder has been a tried-and-true favorite for drivers for decades. So, when comparing the 2024 Ford Explorer vs 2024 Nissan Pathfinder, which SUV delivers the better ride?
The Explorer is known for its bold styling and can-do attitude, and with its powerful V6 engine in the lineup, any journey will be a more exhilarating experience. The Pathfinder, although rugged and strong, tends to disappoint when it comes to its ride quality on the pavement, with not-so exciting handling, and when it comes to taking advantage of everything you want in a top-level trim, this can get a bit pricey. At DePaula Ford, we want to help you choose the best-suited three-row SUV for your needs, and when you want to enjoy top-of-the-line features, an unbeatable ride quality, and so much more, one of these models does this better than the competition.
When you want to enjoy the best ride possible, it helps to have options, which is exactly what you can expect from the 2024 Ford Explorer. With two powertrains available, you can craft the ride you truly desire, whether you're seeking out ample efficiency or an all-out thrilling experience—or both. A 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder comes standard, offering 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque to your ride. Not only is this a nice amount of power, its efficiency is impressive, able to get an EPA-estimated 28 MPG on the highway, making it ideal for those who find themselves regularly behind the wheel, fighting traffic and making frequent stops by the school to drop off forgotten sports gear. A more intense 3.0L EcoBoost turbocharged V6 is in the lineup as well, offering 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque to your ride to make any journey more exciting than ever.
It's quickly apparent that you don't have as many options with the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder, with only one powertrain available, a 3.5L V6. This setup propels forward with up to 295 hp at the helm, which is less than what either of the Explorer's powertrains has to offer. You also won't get to take advantage of that level of efficiency, as the Pathfinder can only get up to 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. With less power and efficiency, the Pathfinder disappoints drivers who want to take advantage of a more efficient and exciting ride.
Speaking of the ride, you'll find that the powertrains available in the Ford Explorer can offer you an all-around better experience, no matter where you travel. Either engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which makes for a smooth, refined ride, while agile handling and optimal control can be expected out of this Ford favorite. You'll find additional features to make the drive better, like Side-Wind Stabilization to keep your vehicle controlled and centered in its lane when experiencing windy weather conditions. The Pathfinder's V6 engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, which delivers a comfortable ride; however, it's reported that its driving dynamics could use some work. With bland handling and a lack of excitement on the road, this Nissan model falls short of many drivers' expectations.
Both midsize SUVs are able to hold their own off-road, and when it comes to a truly remarkable experience, the Explorer will deliver that to you with its Timberline model. From a 3.58 TORSEN Limited-Slip Rear Axle to intensify control on uneven surfaces to all-terrain tires, impressive ground clearance of 8.7 inches, and more off-road ready elements, the Explorer is able to handle itself in any environment. A standard Terrain Management System helps all-wheel drive models take on the terrain, with up to seven Selectable Drive Modes to make the most out of any situation you come across next.
The Pathfinder answers back with its Rock Creek Edition, which includes various off-road ready features to aid you when trekking through challenging environments, like four-wheel drive, an electronic transfer case, anti-roll bars, an off-road tuned suspension, and more. Seven drive modes are also available to take on different types of off-road conditions with ease. It's been reported that the Rock Creek can't quite keep up with many of its rivals when it comes to off-road credibility and the ability to navigate more treacherous environments, so if this is a priority for you, you'll want to explore other options.
Choosing the right midsize SUV requires options, and you'll find plenty of them with the 2024 Ford Explorer. Top-of-the-line features belong to the Platinum and King Ranch trims, which include leather seating surfaces with accent stitching, a twin-panel moonroof, hand stitched logos, and more premium elements inside. Mid-level models, like the ST and Limited, also impress with micro-perforated seating inserts and silver accent stitching, while the off-road ready Timberline excites with steel underbody skid plates, a commanding grille, specialized lighting, and an intimidating presence that can't be replicated. For those who desire show-stopping style, the ST-Line won't disappoint, with ActiveX seating materials and red accent stitching, while base models, like the XLT, feature easy-clean seating materials and a cozy interior, ideal for any journey.
The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder also showcases a wide array of trims, but not as many as you'll find with the Explorer. Its top-level Platinum and SL models showcase premium upholstery, a panoramic moonroof, a heated steering wheel, and more alluring elements. The mid-level SV offers heated front seats and intelligent climate control to create the ideal ambiance on board, while the base S offers a more simplistic appeal with cloth seating surfaces and less flashy materials throughout, perfect for the cost-conscious traveler.
The 2024 Ford Explorer is able to comfortably seat up to seven inside its spacious and refined cabin. With ample legroom throughout its three rows, the Explorer is perfect for a multitude of different drivers, from families to those traveling with fellow adventure mates. An available PowerFold third row allows you to effortlessly handle more cargo, able to easily fold down to extend its cargo hold to maximum capacity. Offering up to 87.8 cu. ft. of space in its cargo area, the Explorer can accommodate anything you happen to be bringing along with you for the ride. Unfortunately, the Pathfinder doesn't seem to be as accommodating, only offering a maximum 80.5 cu. ft. in its cargo hold, which vastly reduces its hauling potential.
From connectivity to safety to driver assistance, the level of innovation you'll find inside the 2024 Ford Explorer is beyond impressive. With an available 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, you'll be able to take advantage of the intuitive SYNC 3 system, which includes customizable displays and effortless access to all of your must-have apps and more. Available wireless charging capabilities, smartphone compatibility, and a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system add even more excitement and value to the drive, helping you stay entertained, informed, and connected to your day. Plenty of driver assistance aids also come to the rescue, like the available Active Park Assist 2.0, which helps you parallel park like a professional, as well as a rear view camera, Pre-Collision Assist, a Blind Spot Information System, and much more to make for a safe and confident ride.
Although there's a nice amount of tech features found within the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder, if you're interested in a large touchscreen, the best this SUV can do is a 9-inch option, which can be found on more expensive upper-level trims. Of course, like any modern-day vehicle, you'll find smartphone integration and available wireless charging capabilities on the menu, as well as navigation and more helpful features. Nissan Safety Shield 360 ensures your drive is as safe as possible, with features like Rear Automatic Braking, Lane Departure Warning, and more. You'll find the same types of features with the Explorer, plus a larger touchscreen, which makes the Explorer more appealing to drivers seeking out top-level tech in their vehicles. If you're searching for a vehicle that's completely in tune with your day, from connectivity options to advanced safety features, the 2024 Explorer proves its worth among families and daily drivers who need to have access to their tech while they're on the road.
At DePaula Ford, we're the best place to shop for a new Ford vehicle, especially when you want to take advantage of fair prices, top trade-in values, and a team that's been recognized for its excellence. Earning the President's Award by the Ford Motor Company for our dedication to our customers, DePaula Ford is the best dealership to trust when you're searching for a car. If you're intrigued by the 2024 Ford Explorer, you'll find plenty of models on our lot that will undoubtedly wow you and meet all of your needs on the road and beyond. In addition, with our exceptional finance and service professionals, you'll be able to get the payment plan that's perfect for your budget requirements, as well as have peace of mind that your vehicle is being taken care of by the best. We invite you to stop in and start your buying journey with us. When you have an Explorer on your mind, there's no better team to partner with than DePaula Ford.
*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.
