2022 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder sported a revamped design that appeals to those seeking a more rugged and capable aesthetic. Its bold front V-motion grille, flanked by LED headlights and slender daytime running lights, added a modern touch that echoed the Pathfinder’s robust nature. The three-slot grille nodding to earlier generations, alongside the new Nissan logo, presented a nostalgic tribute with a contemporary twist. Available in 14 color schemes, with options for a black roof extending to the C-pillar, the Pathfinder's exterior was both striking and functional, aimed directly at competing with robust SUVs like the Kia Telluride.

Meanwhile, the 2022 Ford Explorer maintained its athletic stance characterized by a rear-drive platform enabling a long hood and short front overhang. The design facilitated a sporty silhouette with a rakish roofline and tapering greenhouse, culminating in a distinctive “floating roof” effect. Despite its upscale King Ranch trim with bespoke emblems and premium seating, some found the exterior too similar across the range, which might deter those seeking standout aesthetics from base to top trim levels.

Performance-wise, the Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-liter V6 engine from previous years, producing 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. It transitioned from a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to a smoother nine-speed automatic transmission, offering a drive that balanced power and refinement. Available in both FWD and AWD, the Pathfinder was versatile, adapting to various driving conditions with up to seven drive modes. Its towing capacity reached 6,000 pounds, suitable for substantial loads, although it occasionally struggled at higher speeds to maintain the desired gear.

The Ford Explorer presented more engine options, catering to diverse preferences. Its standard 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine offered a robust 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The Explorer also had a hybrid option and a powerful twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, which provided 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, especially appealing to those prioritizing towing capacity and acceleration. Despite its power, the Explorer’s handling felt secure and robust, even on challenging terrains, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and available drive modes.

Inside, the Pathfinder excelled in utility and comfort. It featured a well-isolated cabin from road noise, with enhanced materials reducing sound penetration effectively. The thoughtful design included easily accessible second-row seats via the EZ Flex Latch and Glide technology, favoring families with young children or frequent rear-seat passengers. Cargo space was ample at 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to a generous 80.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded, outpacing many competitors.

Conversely, the Explorer’s interior, though plush in higher trims like the King Ranch, faltered slightly in practicality regarding storage and third-row accessibility. It offered 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and a total of 87.8 cubic feet with all seats down, slightly more than the Pathfinder. However, its third-row seat was noted for being less accommodating for adults due to space constraints imposed by its stylish exterior design.

In technology, the Pathfinder shone with an array of standard features across all trim levels, including a responsive 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, various connectivity options, and additional USB ports in higher trims. The higher grades enjoyed a 13-speaker Bose audio system and a larger 9-inch screen, among other advanced functionalities.

The Explorer’s technology, while robust, suffered slight setbacks with the Sync 3 system, lacking intuitive voice recognition and missing certain navigation commands. Its optional 10.1-inch touchscreen, although sizeable, was not seamlessly integrated into the dash, affecting aesthetic unity. Nonetheless, Ford equipped it with a comprehensive suite of features including a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen system, which significantly enhanced the audio experience.