2021 Ford Explorer vs 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

In the 2021 Ford Explorer, Ford seemed to embody a nostalgic, almost classic family resemblance ethos across its SUV lineup. The Explorer's exterior presented a mix of sporty and functional, characterized by raked belt lines and distinctive front visages that bore a strong familial resemblance to other Ford SUVs like the Escape and the Expedition. Different trims offered varying aesthetic touches whether it was a black grille, a chrome touch, or even a full chrome finish. With six trim level offerings, from the base model to the XLT, Limited, Limited Hybrid, Explorer ST, and the Platinum, the Explorer offered exterior and interior enhancements as you moved up the ladder.

Inside, every trim of the Explorer came with three rows of seats. The third row was a standard but tight fit for adults, commonplace in this SUV segment. The dashboard featured familiar gauges, an 8-inch LCD touchscreen, large knobs, and buttons for audio and climate controls, a clean design that fans of traditional layouts would appreciate. The storage-focused center console housed a rotary gearshift, cupholders, and a big storage bin with an armrest cover. By far, the XLT was the most popular trim, favored for its power front passenger seat, finer finishes, and an impressive 6.5-inch instrument panel screen. Leather upholstery came standard starting from the mid-tier Limited trim and higher.

For the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder, Nissan embraced a fresh, rugged visual upgrade. Echoing design cues from both the Rogue and Armada, the Pathfinder sported a modern take on the brand’s V-motion grille, accompanied by LED headlights and sleek daytime running lights that gave the vehicle a distinctive look. The side panels and hood combined to give the SUV a robust look, reminiscent of competitors like the Kia Telluride. It came in four trims: S, SV, SL, and Platinum, each with body-color door handles, chrome badging, and a chrome grille.

From 14 available paint jobs to a distinct, black-roof option that accented the C-pillar, the Pathfinder aimed for a bold aesthetic. The SUV was designed wider and taller, emphasizing its planted stance on the road, optimizing for both perceived ruggedness and real-world capability.

The 2021 Ford Explorer, tipping the scales at its lightest at 4,345 pounds, featured a surprisingly powerful base 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The engine outperformed Kia Telluride’s 291 hp and 262 lb-ft V6 engine. All trims utilized a 10-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift capability, adding to the performance matrix. Higher trims of the Explorer, the Limited Hybrid and beyond, offered more powerful engine options including a 310 hp V6 hybrid and a 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 with outputs reaching as high as 400 hp in the ST trim.

For towing, the Explorer held its own, with capabilities ranging between 5,000 to 5,600 pounds, fitting for mid-range towing needs like a dual-axle Airstream. Although impressive, it wasn't the highest in the class, with Jeeps and larger SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe offering more.

Conversely, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-liter V6 engine from the previous generation, giving a steady 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. While not introducing alternative fuel models was a setback to some, this engine was paired with Nissan’s new nine-speed automatic transmission. The transmission’s smooth shifts greatly enhanced driving experience.

The Pathfinder was available in both FWD and AWD configurations, with up to seven drive and terrain modes in AWD models. Offering an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg city/26 mpg highway in FWD models, the Pathfinder achieved a 6,000-pound towing capacity, besting the Explorer slightly in towing performance. Its new architecture with hill-start assist and hill descent control on AWD models made it adept both on city streets and off-road.

The 2021 Ford Explorer’s base configuration seated seven, dropping to six with higher trims' captain's chairs. It delivered 39 inches of second-row legroom, putting it ahead of the Nissan Murano and Buick Enclave but behind competitors like Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. Cargo space remained pragmatic with 21 cubic feet available even with the third-row seats deployed, but totaling only 81 cubic feet overall, it fell short compared to roomier alternatives within the same class.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder impressed with a highly flexible interior. The quieter cabin featured premium touches like acoustic laminated glass, thick second-row glass, and improved insulation. The Pathfinder's attention to the family-friendly design, including wide-opening rear doors, Intelligent Key access, and the innovative EZ Flex Latch and Glide system for easy third-row access, emphasized functionality. This System featured one-touch capabilities for maneuvering the second-row seats.

Cargo capacity was also a strong suit: 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 45.0 cubic feet with the third row folded and totaling 80.5 cubic feet with both rows flat, competitive in its class. Added touches like under-floor cargo storage with easy-access hinge supports and removable second-row center consoles showcased Nissan’s keen execution of form meeting function.

The 2021 Ford Explorer came equipped with essential technology across all trim levels. The base model provided an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 4G WiFi hotspot, and the Sync 3 system. Stepping up in trims added a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system and higher options like a 10.1-inch touchscreen and up to 14 speakers.

Ports and power points were liberal: two USB ports in the center console, five 12-volt power points, and a wireless charging pad included from the Limited trim. The Explorer's tech integration aligned well with consumer expectations, without overwhelming those less tech-savvy.

Not to be outdone, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder offered a wealth of standard technology including a six-speaker audio system, 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, multiple USB ports, and a 7-inch digital driver display even on the base model. Higher trims upped the ante with a 13-speaker Bose system, 9-inch touch screen, wireless charging, and a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument panel.

This array of features served as practical additions aimed at enhancing daily driving experiences without falling into gimmicky territory.

The 2021 Ford Explorer garnered a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, indicating sterling crash test performance and strong overall safety credentials. Its Ford Co-Pilot360 suite—standard on all trims—included auto high-beam headlights, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and more advanced features like adaptive cruise control available in higher trims through the Co-Pilot360 Assist+ suite.

Similarly, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder's standard Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite encompassed automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional helpful technologies like a driver alertness monitor and forward-collision warning, supplemented standard safety. Upper trims added features like a surround-view monitor and an 11th airbag on the Platinum grade. While not yet crash-tested by IIHS or NHTSA, the Pathfinder's suite ensured comprehensive baseline safety.