The midsize 3-row SUV segment is full of good choices, and two of the most popular options are the Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder. Their names might be old, but these are thoroughly modern family SUVs with the latest technologies and capabilities on-road and off that might surprise you.
Let’s take a closer look at the Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder and find the right SUV for your family.
2025 Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is one of the oldest and most trusted names in midsize SUVs. Over the years, it’s evolved into a 3-row family SUV and excels at being a practical tool that gets the job done. However, it has some tricks up its sleeve, like a performance model with our favorite engine in this class. Pricing starts at $41,350.
Ford Explorer Highlights
Bigger third row: Interior space is often a priority when shopping for a midsize SUV, and the Explorer is a bit roomier than the Pathfinder. Compared to the Nissan, the Ford has an extra 4.2 inches of third-row legroom, and their cargo space dimensions are almost identical.
BlueCruise: The available BlueCruise semi-autonomous driving system allows for hands-free driving on over 130,000 miles of North American highways. It makes long highway drives more relaxed, especially in the Platinum model’s massaging seats.
Exciting ST model: The Ford Explorer ST is a high-performance SUV that doesn’t compromise on practicality. Its exciting turbocharged V6 pumps out 400 horsepower while its sport-tuned brakes and suspension contribute to an engaging drive. We also love the sporty appearance package.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Explorer models for sale near you.
2025 Nissan Pathfinder
The Nissan Pathfinder has found the right balance of rugged off-roader and practical family hauler. Even if you never venture off the pavement, the Pathfinder is a good SUV with thoughtful, family-friendly features, a diverse model range with luxury and off-road trims, and excellent safety ratings. Pricing starts at $38,460.
Nissan Pathfinder Highlights
Rugged Rock Creek model: The Ford Explorer lineup doesn’t have any off-road trims quite like the Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek. A few of its perks include a slightly stronger engine, beadlock-style wheels with all-terrain tires, an off-road-tuned suspension system, and a rugged appearance package to match its capability.
Towing muscle: The Nissan Pathfinder boasts a max tow rating of up to 6,000 pounds, which is near best-in-class. The tried-and-true V6 under the hood is eager to tow a boat, a camper, a couple of ATVs, and a wide range of other toys.
More affordable: In addition to its attractive sub-$40,000 starting price, the Nissan Pathfinder has better resale value than the Ford Explorer. These factors make the Pathfinder a little easier on the wallet.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Pathfinder models for sale near you.
Similarities
These are both midsize SUVs with standard 3-row seating and similar complements of infotainment and safety tech features. They also boast their own respective luxury trims, and their cargo dimensions are nearly identical.
Pricing
New 2025 Nissan Pathfinder Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (75040)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
$37,790 |
$35,734 |
|||
$40,780 |
$38,561 |
|||
$43,480 |
$41,114 |
|||
$45,880 |
$43,384 |
|||
$50,030 |
$47,308 |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Ford Explorer vehicles and New 2025 Nissan Pathfinder vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2025 Ford Explorer | 2025 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | Turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder | 3.5-liter V6 |
| Horsepower | 300 hp @ 5,500 rpm | 284 hp @ 6,400 rpm |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm | 259 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
| Fuel economy | 20 mpg city/29 mpg highway/24 mpg combined | 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway/23 mpg combined |
| Also Available | Twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6, AWD | 295 hp/270 lb-ft of torque, AWD |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | Not rated | 5-Star |
| Max Seating Capacity | 7 | 8 |
| Wheelbase | 119.1 inches | 114.2 inches |
| Overall Length | 198.7 inches | 197.7 inches |
| Width | 78.9 inches | 77.9 inches |
| Height | 69.6 inches | 70.9 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 38.7 feet | 38.7 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 40.7 inches | 42.3 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 40.5 inches | 39.6 inches |
| Headroom, 3rd Row | 38.9 inches | 37.8 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 43.0 inches | 44.3 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 39.0 inches | 35.5 inches |
| Legroom, 3rd Row | 32.2 inches | 28.0 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 62.1 inches | 60.8 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 61.9 inches | 59.6 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 3rd Row | 54.6 inches | 58.4 inches |
| Cargo Volume | 16.3/46.0/85.3 cubic feet | 16.6/45.0/80.5 cubic feet |
Conclusion
The Nissan Pathfinder makes a strong case as a value choice in this class. Its relatively low starting price and decent resale value make it good for budget-conscious buyers looking for a deal on a new SUV. While the Ford Explorer is a little pricier, there’s nothing quite like its sporty ST model, and it gets downright luxurious in the Platinum trim. The right SUV for you depends on your wants and needs.
