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The 2023 Ford Explorer is one of the top choices for a new SUV. However, there are many options for people who don’t fully trust the long-running SUV. One of the best alternatives to the 2023 Ford Explorer is the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder. The 2023 Pathfinder is an excellent choice that beats the Ford Explorer in more ways than one. 

Here’s why the 2023 Pathfinder is better than the new Explorer. 

The 2023 Pathfinder offers similar performance to the Ford Explorer

Red 2023 Ford Explorer
2023 Ford Explorer | Ford

The new Nissan Pathfinder retains much of the same engine setup as the 2022 Pathfinder. According to Car and Driver, it comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 that has a maximum output of 284 horsepower. One difference from the Nissan Pathfinder 2022 is the difference in transmissions. Instead of the previously used continuously variable transmission, the Nissan Pathfinder 2023 has a nine-speed automatic. 

The Ford Explorer 2023 comes with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It has a maximum output of 300 horsepower. The new Explorer may be more powerful than the Nissan Pathfinder, but the acceleration times are neck and neck. According to road tests, the new Explorer goes from 0 to 60 miles per hour in about 6.8 seconds, while the Pathfinder does it in 6.6 seconds. 

The Nissa Pathfinder has a better interior than the Ford Explorer 2023

2023 Nissan Pathfinder Interior
2023 Nissan Pathfinder | Nissan

Many people are buying the 2023 Pathfinder over the new Ford Explorer because of the interior. The new Pathfinder interior is more comfortable, and it’s also more inspired than that of the Explorer. In addition, it’s both more spacious and has storage compartments throughout the vehicle. Some even compare the inside of the new Pathfinder to that of a truck in this regard. 

Regarding technology, both SUVs offer the same 8-inch touchscreen as standard. However, the Pathfinder 2023 only offers a 9-inch touchscreen for its upper trims, whereas Ford has a 10.1-inch vertical option. The new Nissan Pathfinder also has a 12.3-inch gauge cluster, an available wireless charging pad, and optional WiFi. Both vehicles have impressive sound systems, but most will find that the 2023 Nissan SUV has the overall better use of interior technology. 

Both 2023 SUVs are reliable

Blue Nissan Pathfinder 2023
2023 Nissan Pathfinder | Nissan

Where the Ford Explorer 2023 beats the Pathfinder slightly is in reliability. JD Power gave the 2023 Nissan a predicted reliability score of 77. However, the new Explorer has an 83. This puts them in different reliability groups, but the difference in points isn’t super significant. 

Regarding safety ratings, the Pathfinder 2023 comes out on top. The IIHS called it a top safety pick plus for 2023. While still great, the new Ford Explorer is only a top safety pick for the year. The Pathfinder edges out the Explorer due to crash prevention and seat belt warnings. 

The Nissan SUV may not have as long a history as the Ford Explorer, but the 2023 model is a better choice for many people. It offers comparable performance while also being an overall safer SUV for 2023 and beyond. 

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