2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend vs 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S
$6,555 less and 4 mpg better vs 103 more hp and 69 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $6,555 price gap, 181 vs 284 hp, 27 vs 23 MPG.
The Bronco Sport Big Bend leads on $6,555 less, 4 MPG better. The Pathfinder S leads on 103 more hp, 69 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend | 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,845 | $38,400 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I3 Turbo | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 181 hp | 284 hp |
| Torque | 190 lb-ft | 259 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 27 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.0 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,600/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 4,484 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 114.2" |
| Length | 172.7" | 197.7" |
| Width | 74.3" | 77.9" |
| Height | 70.2" | 70.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend and 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend starts at $31,845, $6,555 less than the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S at $38,400. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $115/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,555 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $270/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S is the stronger pick when the extra 103 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend or 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend rates 27 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend or 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S produces 284 hp, 103 more than the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend at 181 hp. The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S also leads in torque at 259 lb-ft vs 190 lb-ft. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend runs a 1.5L I3 Turbo; the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S uses a 3.5L V6. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend, 4WD on the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S.
Is the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend bigger than the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S is 25.0″ longer at 197.7″ vs 172.7″. The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S has a 9.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend and 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend comes with AWD, while the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S uses 4WD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Ford trims, Ford Bronco Sport trims, Nissan trims, Nissan Pathfinder trims
The Bronco Sport–Pathfinder Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Bronco Sport and Pathfinder compare. The $6,555 gap adds up to $115/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend runs a 1.5L I3 Turbo; the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S uses a 3.5L V6. The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S has 103 more hp (284 vs 181). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S adds 69 more lb-ft of torque (259 vs 190), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Drivetrains differ: AWD on the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend, 4WD on the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend saves roughly $270/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,350. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Living With the Bronco Sport vs the Pathfinder
The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S is 25.0″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S has a 9.1″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend when you want to keep $6,555 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S when the extra 103 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $115/month more, the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder S needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Ford or Nissan or any dealership.