Come To Charlie Clark To Compare Explorer Vs Pathfinder

If you have a large family in El Paso, then getting the right vehicle to suit your needs can be an issue. If you do not want to spend too much, or your budget doesn’t stretch as far as a major purchase when it comes to an automobile (and if you have a large family, that’s quite easy to understand) then you’re probably going to look for a midsize, three-row SUV.

Two of the most popular midsize SUVs available in the US are the Nissan Pathfinder and the Ford Explorer in El Paso. Here, we are going to take a look at these two vehicles, compare them, and see which is the best …

The El Paso Nissan Pathfinder … An Introduction

The most impressive aspect of the Pathfinder is perhaps the power that you get for a midsize SUV. Comfort-wise, gaining access to that important third row of seating is not at all like battling with an assault course.

Nissan also threw in their usual number of essential driver aids, to keep you both safe and comfortable on the road. The last generation of the Pathfinder was its fourth, which has been around since 2013.

The El Paso Ford Explorer … An Introduction

The first thing you notice about the most recent models of the Explorer is that they are thoroughly up-to-date, having undergone a significant revamp in 2020. That’s all well and good, but it only applies to models on sale since 2019. If you can only afford a used Ford Explorer in El Paso, then you are going to have to settle for an older generation.

The latest Explorer models also have some interesting powertrain configurations, plus the new generation saw a return to standard rear-wheel-drive.

Explorer vs. Pathfinder – Engine & Transmission

The powertrain is perhaps the most impressive feature of the Pathfinder. All four usual trims boast a 3.5L V6 engine that roars beneath the hood. The engine is capable of generating 284-hp and 259 lb-ft of torque – more than enough to power the Pathfinder up continuous slopes even when fully loaded. It also boasts one of the smoothest CVTs (continuously variable transmissions) of any midsize SUV of any description. The Pathfinder also gives you up to 6,000 pounds of towing power. FWD is standard but AWD is available too.

The most common models of the new Ford Explorer in El Paso only have a 2.3L four-cylinder engine as standard but it is capable of providing 300-hp and 310 lb-ft of torque which is genuinely impressive. Superior trims can edge this up to a 3.0L turbocharged engine, although with the top-of-the-line Platinum trim this merely equates to 365-hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. The towing capacity is lower than the Pathfinder though, maxing out at 5,600 pounds.

Economy-wise both these SUVs are similar, at 20-21mpg in the city and 27-28mpg on the highway.

Explorer vs. Pathfinder – the Driving Experience

It has to be said that the Explorer feels roomier than the Pathfinder, but not by much. Indeed, when it comes to the driver and front seat passenger it’s the Pathfinder that offers more space – admittedly at the slight expense in terms of comfort for those in the back.

The Explorer also has more cargo space – 18.2 cubic feet to 16.2 cubic feet – but put down the third row of seats and that difference is minimized.

Both vehicles offer decent infotainment systems. Keeping those devices charged though is much easier in a Pathfinder though as the standard model comes with six USB ports as opposed to the Explorer’s two.

Explorer v Pathfinder – Who Wins?

We’re going to have to say that the Nissan Pathfinder just edges this contest. There is not much to choose between these two quality midsize SUVs, but the Pathfinder simply feels the most powerful. You’ll find this out for yourself when you head down to our dealership for a test drive.

If you are looking for a quality midsize SUV then don’t waste your time at a new Ford Explorer dealership El Paso, head down to the Charlie Clark Showroom instead! You can of course contact us at any time, at (915) 233-4682 or online through our contact form.

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