2020 Ford Explorer vs 2020 Nissan Pathfinder

2020 Ford Explorer vs 2020 Nissan Pathfinder near Dothan, AL

For years, the market for midsize SUVs has been expanding as more and more individuals are choosing these vehicles for their enviable performance, safety, and comfort features. In case you haven’t already, be sure to put the 2020 Ford Explorer on your list of contenders! If you’re also interested in the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder, the team at Gilland Ford would like to explain how the Explorer is the better set of wheels. 

Safety Features

Although other aspects are certainly important, safety might just top them all. Thankfully, the 2020 Explorer puts a premium on your well-being, coming standard with both a Reverse Sensing System1 and Lane Keeping System1. While the former emits beeps to let you know if you’re getting too close to an object, the latter prevents you from veering off course with both warnings and corrective action. Although the Nissan Pathfinder has a similar standard Rear Sonar System2 as standard, it doesn’t have anything that compares to the lane assist feature. In fact, this SUV also fails to include an advancement that matches the capabilities of the Ford’s optional Active Park Assist 2.01. While you shift, accelerate, and brake, this system turns the steering wheel to guide you into parallel parking spots. 

Comfort & Space

Next, let’s examine what the interiors of these models bring to the table. Similar to their safety features, both the 2020 Ford Explorer and 2020 Nissan Pathfinder share several amenities, such as standard tri-zone automatic climate control, so you’ll have an easy time keeping everyone on board comfortable whether it’s the middle of winter or the peak of summer. However, when we account for space, the Explorer starts to edge ahead. Up front, you and your copilot will be able to relax in 43.0 inches of legroom, while this area in the Pathfinder isn’t quite as spacious with just 42.2 inches of legroom. Not to mention, the Ford provides you with up to 87.8 cubic ft. of maximum cargo space3 when the back rows are stowed. Meanwhile, the model from Nissan misses the mark with a less expansive 79.5 cubic ft. of storage4. 

Which Is Stronger - the 2020 Explorer or 2020 Pathfinder?

The last aspect we’d like to address is performance. The Ford Explorer certainly isn’t messing around, coming standard with a 2.3L EcoBoost® 4-cylinder engine that makes quick work of your regular commutes with 300-hp and 310 lb-ft. of torque. Plus, the 10-speed automatic transmission ensures that you can accelerate onto Route 84 without delay. On the other hand, the Nissan Pathfinder pairs its 3.5L naturally aspirated V6 system with a CVT, resulting in a less impressive 284-hp and 259 lb.-ft. of torque. Incredibly, though, the Explorer still isn’t finished, allowing you to upgrade to a 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 powertrain that arms you with 400-hp and 415 lb.-ft. of torque on the ST trim level. Unfortunately, the SUV from Nissan has no engine upgrades to speak of. 

Gilland Ford is confident you’ll agree that when comparing the 2020 Ford Explorer vs 2020 Nissan Pathfinder near Dothan, AL, the Explorer is the undisputed winner. Be sure to contact us if you’d like to hear more or schedule a test drive!

1. Driver Assist Features are supplemental and do not replace the driver's attention, judgment and need to control the vehicle.

2. Sonar System may not detect every object. Driver should always check surroundings before driving. See Owner’s Manual for safety information.

3. Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and weight distribution.

4. Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution. Always secure all cargo. Heavy loading of the vehicle with cargo, especially on the roof, will affect the handling and stability of the vehicle.