2025 Ford Explorer vs 2025 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2025 Ford Explorer continued its sleek design evolution, maintaining the rear-wheel-drive platform that enhanced its balanced proportions. The refreshed model featured a restyled front end, giving it a wider and more rugged appearance. New LED taillights and a variety of wheel designs added to its modern look. Inside, the Explorer saw significant improvements with upgraded materials and design, making it more competitive in its segment. Ford streamlined the trim levels to four, ranging from the base Active to the performance-tuned ST, with prices starting at $39,755.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, tested in snowy conditions near Mount Rainier, showcased its capability with the Rock Creek trim. Equipped with all-wheel drive and specialized tires, it handled the terrain well. Redesigned in 2022, the Pathfinder offered a robust look with an assertive front end and protective cladding. The Rock Creek trim added unique styling elements and practical features like a metal roof rack. Despite its rugged appearance, the Pathfinder remained a unibody crossover, lacking additional ground clearance or skid plates, but providing a comfortable and spacious interior.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engines: a 300-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder and a 400-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6. Both engines paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, with optional four-wheel drive. The Explorer's driving modes included Eco, Normal, Sport, and more. The ST-Line trim, with its turbo four-cylinder, averaged 23.8 mpg. The Explorer's performance was enhanced with larger wheels and optional performance brakes, providing a firm yet comfortable ride.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 284 hp in most trims and 295 hp in the Rock Creek. A nine-speed automatic transmission replaced the previous CVT, offering smooth shifts. The Pathfinder's towing capacity reached 6,000 pounds with certain trims. Its ride was soft, suitable for light off-roading but less composed on twisty roads. The Rock Creek trim, with its all-terrain tires, averaged 20.8 mpg. The Pathfinder offered seven drive modes and standard hill-descent control, performing well in snowy conditions.

The 2025 Ford Explorer seated six in its standard configuration, with an optional bench seat increasing capacity to seven. The ST-Line trim featured comfortable front seats with heating and massage functions. Second-row captain’s chairs provided comfort, while the third row was less accommodating for adults. Cargo space was competitive, with 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 85.8 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, though smaller on paper, offered ample space for passengers and cargo. It provided 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 80.5 cubic feet with seats folded. The Rock Creek trim included captain’s chairs and a removable center console. The Pathfinder's EZ Flex Seating System allowed easy access to the third row without removing car seats, enhancing its family-friendly design.

The 2025 Ford Explorer introduced the Ford Digital Experience with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrumentation. It included Google Built-in, Amazon Alexa, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with a B&O sound system available. The ST-Line had a 10-speaker setup, while higher trims offered 14 speakers.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder lagged in tech compared to competitors, featuring an older interface. It offered an 8-inch screen in lower trims and a 9-inch in higher ones. The SL and Platinum trims included a 13-speaker Bose system. NissanConnect supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless projection limited to Apple devices. Navigation was available only on higher trims.

The 2025 Ford Explorer came with Ford CoPilot 360+, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. Higher trims featured BlueCruise, a hands-free highway driving system. The Explorer received five-star side-impact and four-star rollover ratings from NHTSA, with IIHS ratings pending.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. It included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. ProPilot Assist was standard on most trims, enhancing its safety credentials.