Nissan Pathfinder vs Ford Explorer
If you're looking for a three-row SUV that can handle school drop-offs in Stoughton, weekend soccer games in Easton, grocery runs through Brockton, and family road trips from Hanover to the Cape, the Nissan Pathfinder and Ford Explorer are worth comparing. Both give you three rows and SUV capability for South Shore life, but they take different approaches to power, towing, passenger flexibility, and everyday technology. In this Nissan Pathfinder vs. Ford Explorer comparison, Nissan 24 helps drivers across Brockton, Easton, Stoughton, and Hanover, MA see where each SUV fits your lifestyle.
Compare the Nissan PathFinder and the Ford Explorer
| Feature | Nissan Pathfinder | Ford Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | Up to 8 passengers | Up to 7 passengers |
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.3L EcoBoost® standard; 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 available |
| Maximum Horsepower | 284 hp | Up to 385 hp |
| Maximum Towing | Up to 6,000 lbs. | Up to 5,000 lbs. |
| Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto™ | Wireless available | Wireless available |
| Large Touchscreen | Available 12.3-inch display | 13.2-inch touchscreen |
| AWD | Available | Available |
Which Has More Power, the Nissan Pathfinder or Ford Explorer?
When you're carrying passengers, luggage, or recreational equipment, having the right amount of power matters. The Pathfinder uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. When properly equipped, it can tow up to 6,000 pounds, giving you the muscle to bring along a camper, boat, or trailer for a weekend trip.
The Explorer comes standard with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine, with an available 3.0-liter EcoBoost® V6 on select trims. Depending on configuration, the Explorer can produce up to 385 horsepower and tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
For shoppers who regularly tow, the Pathfinder's 6,000-pound maximum gives it an advantage. The Explorer, however, offers more available horsepower for those who prioritize performance.
Compare Interior Space
Three-row SUVs need to work for real families, not just look spacious in a brochure. The Pathfinder gives you seating for up to eight passengers with its available second-row bench, while available captain's chairs create a seven-passenger configuration.
The Pathfinder also makes accessing the third row easier with its available EZ FLEX® LATCH AND GLIDE® second-row seat. That can be particularly helpful when you're loading kids, car seats, or passengers into the back.
The Ford Explorer seats up to seven passengers, with second-row captain's chairs standard on most trims. Its three-row layout gives you flexibility for passengers and cargo, making it suitable for family trips, carpools, and everyday errands.
What Technology Do the Pathfinder and Explorer Offer?
The Pathfinder keeps you connected with an available 12.3-inch HD touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and available wireless smartphone charging. Available NissanConnect® Services can also provide access to connected features through compatible devices.
The Explorer offers a large 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen and available Ford Digital Experience, giving you access to apps, navigation, and connected features. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are also available.
For your daily commute or a long family road trip, both SUVs give you modern technology designed to keep navigation, entertainment, and communication within easy reach.
Which Three-Row SUV Is Right for Your Family?
The Nissan Pathfinder makes sense if you want a three-row SUV with seating for up to eight, strong V6 performance, and up to 6,000 pounds of towing capacity. It's a natural fit for family road trips, towing recreational equipment, and everyday driving when you need plenty of passenger flexibility.
The Ford Explorer may appeal to you if performance is a priority. Its available 3.0-liter EcoBoost® V6 can produce up to 385 horsepower, giving you a more performance-oriented option within the three-row SUV segment.
Think about what you actually do with your SUV. If towing a camper or boat is part of your summer routine, Pathfinder's towing capacity deserves attention. If you enjoy having extra power available when merging onto the highway or taking longer road trips, the Explorer's available horsepower may stand out.
FAQs
Is the Nissan Pathfinder good for families?
Yes. The Pathfinder offers seating for up to eight passengers and available second-row EZ FLEX® LATCH AND GLIDE® seating that makes accessing the third row easier. Its three-row layout and towing capability also make it useful for family trips and outdoor activities.
Which can tow more, the Nissan Pathfinder or Ford Explorer?
The Nissan Pathfinder can tow up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped, while the Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. That gives the Pathfinder a 1,000-pound advantage in maximum towing capacity.
Is the Nissan Pathfinder safe?
Yes. The Nissan Pathfinder is designed with advanced safety technology and the available Nissan Safety Shield® 360, which helps provide driver awareness and confidence on the road. Its safety performance is backed by the IIHS, which recognized this vehicle with a TOP SAFETY PICK award.*
Find Your Three-Row SUV
Comparing the Nissan Pathfinder vs. Ford Explorer comes down to what you want from your next three-row SUV. The Pathfinder stands out with seating for up to eight, a 284-horsepower V6, and up to 6,000 pounds of towing capability.
At Nissan 24, you can explore the Pathfinder lineup, compare available configurations, and find a three-row SUV that fits your family's daily routine. When you're ready to experience the Pathfinder for yourself, contact our team and schedule a test drive.
*Source: IIHS