2025 Ford Explorer vs 2025 Nissan Pathfinder
The 2025 Ford Explorer and 2025 Nissan Pathfinder are both popular mid-size SUVs offering a mix of rugged capability, family-friendly features, and modern technology. Here’s a brief comparison:
Performance
• Ford Explorer: The 2025 Explorer offers a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine (300 hp) and a more powerful 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (400 hp).
• Nissan Pathfinder: The Pathfinder is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 284 hp, mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. It provides a solid balance between power and fuel efficiency but lacks the performance options found in the Explorer.
Interior & Comfort
• Ford Explorer: The Explorer offers a more modern interior, with up to three rows of seating for seven passengers. Standard features include an 8-inch touchscreen with Ford’s SYNC 3 system, with an option for a larger 12-inch display and additional luxury features in higher trims.
• Nissan Pathfinder: The Pathfinder also seats up to seven passengers with an emphasis on comfort, offering a spacious cabin with soft-touch materials. It has a standard 8-inch touchscreen, but its interface is slightly less advanced than the Explorer’s. Higher trims offer premium features like a 9-inch touchscreen and tri-zone climate control.
Technology & Safety
• Ford Explorer: The Explorer comes equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360, offering advanced safety features like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automated emergency braking. It also offers an optional 360-degree camera system.
• Nissan Pathfinder: The Pathfinder includes Nissan Safety Shield 360, which provides similar safety features. It also includes standard adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring.
Towing & Off-Road Capability
• Ford Explorer: With a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,600 pounds (when properly equipped), the Explorer is well-suited for towing heavier loads. Its off-road trims (such as the Timberline) offer enhanced capability.
• Nissan Pathfinder: The Pathfinder can tow up to 6,000 pounds, which gives it a slight edge for heavy towing. While it offers some off-road capability, it is more geared toward on-road comfort and family use.
Price
• Ford Explorer: Prices for the 2025 Explorer typically start in the mid-$40,000 range, depending on the trim level and options chosen.
• Nissan Pathfinder: The 2025 Pathfinder starts around $40,000, making it a slightly more affordable option compared to the Explorer, although higher trims can approach similar price points.
Conclusion
• Ford Explorer: Ideal for those seeking a more performance-oriented SUV with a range of powertrain options and advanced tech.
• Nissan Pathfinder: A great choice for families needing a spacious and comfortable ride, with superior towing capacity and a simpler, more traditional design.
Both are excellent choices, but the right pick depends on whether you prioritize performance and technology (Explorer) or towing capacity and family-oriented features (Pathfinder).