Ford Explorer
What’s for sale near me?
Above Average: Turbocharged engines, high-tech features, off-road capable, distinctive styling, third-row seat, fuel economy
Below Average: Difficult to use control interfaces, Sync infotainment, varying reliability, IIHS small overlap crash test results
Consensus: A very flexible 7-passenger SUV with real off-road ability, loads of high-tech gear with a few questionable marks in the areas of safety and reliability.
Nissan Pathfinder
What’s for sale near me?
Above Average: Impressive driving dynamics, radical design, upscale interior, fuel economy, easy-to-use tech
Below Average: Resale values, early model CVT transmission, small 3rd-row seat, reliability
Consensus: The Pathfinder offers a car-like ride and driving dynamics in a fuel-efficient 7-passenger SUV with a very exotic exterior, but a somewhat iffy CVT transmission on early models.
Prior to 2012, most people knew the Pathfinder as a rugged body-on-frame SUV big on off-road adventures and short on refinement. That all changed in 2013 with the arrival of an all-new Pathfinder, one with a unit body, car-like ride and a more refined interior. In many ways, the Pathfinder and Explorer share the same mission but diverge in their basic approach. Whereas the Explorer offers numerous engine options all mated to 6-speed automatics, the Pathfinder offers a single V6 engine mated to a CVT transmission. The CVT helps the Pathfinder achieve superior fuel economy, but has also been somewhat problematic on 2013-2015 models. Where the Pathfinder excels on the highway, the Explorer has the ability to leave the beaten path thanks to its AWD multi-terrain mode with settings for mud, snow or sand. The Explorer is all about technology, although it isn’t always perfect, while the Pathfinder seems to be chasing the field, coming late with features like Bluetooth on base models, as well as adaptive cruise control and emergency braking. On the flip side, the Pathfinder offers innovated features like a 360-degree monitor and a power adjustable steering wheel. Both models offer the same warranty and CPO coverage, but the Explorer holds it value better, as well as post slightly better reliability ratings. The Pathfinder, however, posts better IIHS crash test scores for most model years.
Ford Explorer Advantages
Powerful engine options, numerous high-tech and luxury-level features, light off-roading ability, rugged look, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto after 2017
Nissan Pathfinder Advantages
Car-like ride and handling, excellent fuel economy, unique features such as the Around View monitor, proper knobs for controlling audio and ventilation controls, in 2017 towing capacity boosted to 6,000 pounds
Similarities
The Explorer and Pathfinder offer 7-passenger seating, decent fuel economy and sophisticated options. Both can be equipped with all-wheel drive and both can tow up to 5,000 pounds, although Explorer models with the smaller 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine are limited to 2,000 pounds.
Final Recommendation
Based on its resale, reliability and overall configuration choices, we’d pick the Ford Explorer. The Explorer offers more room in its rear-most seat and a number of trims ranging from basic to sporty. It can also venture off-road. However, if you’re more concerned about the best crash test scores or fuel economy, the Pathfinder is a better bet.
OK, so what’s next?
I’m ready for one of these cars, and I’d like to trade in my current car while I’m at it.
