2024 Ford Explorer vs Nissan Pathfinder
If you're shopping for a three-row SUV, you may be trying to decide between the 2024 Ford Explorer and the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder. These two SUVs are among the most formidable models in the midsize SUV segment and offer exceptional ride comfort, spacious cabins, great practicality, and an extensive feature list. While both are remarkably well-made vehicles, many differences distinguish them. Read as our Chalmers Ford team in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, makes a detailed comparison between the Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder to help you decide.
2024 Explorer vs. Pathfinder: Trims and Features
For the 2024 model year, the Ford Explorer comes in eight trim levels, each catering to the needs and preferences of different drivers. The variants include the base Explorer, the XLT, the ST-Line, the off-road-focused Timberline, the Limited, the ST, the King Ranch, and the range-topping Platinum. The 2024 Explorer has a starting MSRP of $36,860, but you may be able to get a better price by taking advantage of the new vehicle specials available at Chalmers Ford.
Few midsize SUVs offer a more generous list of standard features than the Explorer. The entry-level model has cloth upholstery, an eight-way power driver's seat, a four-way manual front-passenger seat, tri-zone automatic climate control, and a power liftgate. It also has infotainment features to provide a fun and connected ride, including an 8-inch touch-screen display, a 4.2-inch driver instrument display, a Wi-Fi hotspot, a pair of USB ports, voice recognition, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, satellite radio, and a six-speaker audio system.
Higher Explorer trims have a variety of optional features that add comfort and convenience to your driving experience, including synthetic or genuine leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, heated and cooled front seats, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, remote start, proximity keyless entry, a moonroof, a hands-free power liftgate, and a universal garage door opener.
Moving up the trim ladder also gives you access to technological upgrades, such as a 10.1-inch touch-screen display, a 6.5- or 12.3-inch digital instrument display, a wireless device charger, navigation, HD radio, a rear-seat entertainment system, two second-row USB ports, and a 12- or 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.
With a starting MSRP of $36,080, the Nissan Pathfinder is available in five trim levels: the S, SV, SL, Rock Creek, and Platinum. The entry-level S has many of the same standard features as the base Explorer but has a larger 7-inch driver instrument display, proximity keyless entry, and two more USB ports. It doesn't have a power driver's seat, a Wi-Fi hotspot, or voice recognition.
The Pathfinder's upper trims have most of the optional features. Then again, this Nissan's largest available infotainment screen is only a 9-inch unit, and it doesn't offer a rear-seat entertainment system on any trim.
2024 Explorer vs. Pathfinder: Specs and Dimensions
In terms of power, the 2024 Ford Explorer has the upper hand over the Nissan Pathfinder. Most models of this Ford SUV have a 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine that generates 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. If you enjoy the occasional spirited drive, choose the ST, King Ranch, or Platinum trim to get the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6, which produces a stout 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Both engines work with a 10-speed automatic transmission that delivers seamless shifts.
No matter which trim you choose, the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder gets its power from a 3.5-liter V-6. This engine serves up 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque in every model except the Rock Creek, which packs 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. It mates to a nine-speed automatic transmission.
While the EPA hasn't tested the 2024 Explorer, the mechanically similar 2023 model earns up to 21/28 mpg (city/highway). That's above average in the segment and slightly higher than the Pathfinder's maximum rating of 20/27 mpg.
As they're both midsize SUVs, the 2024 Ford Explorer and the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder have similar exterior dimensions. The Explorer is a slightly larger vehicle, measuring 198.8 to 199.3 inches long, 78.9 inches wide without side mirrors, and 69.9 to 70.7 inches tall. The Pathfinder is 197.7 to 198.8 inches long, 77.9 inches wide, and 70.7 to 73.7 inches tall.
Front passengers in the Explorer can stretch out with a whopping 43 inches of legroom and 40.7 inches of headroom. The second row provides 39 inches of legroom and 40.5 inches of headroom, while the third row has 32.2 inches of legroom and 38.9 inches of headroom. As for cargo space, you'll have up to 87.8 cubic feet to store your family's luggage and gear.
The Pathfinder's front seats are among the roomiest in the class, offering a cavernous 44.3 inches of legroom and 42.3 inches of headroom. The second- and third-row seats are considerably tighter than those of the Explorer. Second-row passengers get 35.5 inches of legroom and 39.6 inches of headroom, while those in the third row will likely feel cramped with only 28 inches of legroom and 37.8 inches of headroom. This Nissan has a maximum cargo capacity of 80.5 cubic feet.
2024 Explorer vs. Pathfinder: Safety Technology and Exclusive Features
As family-oriented vehicles, the Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder have numerous driver-assistance features to improve your safety. They come standard with pedestrian monitoring, forward collision alert, blind-spot detection, automated emergency braking, automated high beams, lane departure alert, lane-keeping assistance, and driver-attention monitoring. They also have exclusive next-generation safety features. For example, the Ford makes parking easier with its semi-autonomous Active Park Assist 2.0 system, while the Nissan offers ProPILOT Assist for a stress-free highway driving experience.
Test-Drive a 2024 Ford Explorer Today
Although it has a slightly higher starting price, the 2024 Ford Explorer has the edge over the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder in many areas, from performance to overall passenger space. If you want to get the Explorer in Rio Rancho or Albuquerque, New Mexico, stop by Chalmers Ford to check out this awesome SUV in person. Contact us today to schedule a test drive.
