2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum vs 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands
34 more hp and 25.0″ longer vs $11,285 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 284 vs 250 hp, 22 vs 23 MPG.
The Pathfinder Platinum leads on 34 more hp, 25.0″ longer. The Bronco Sport Badlands leads on $11,285 less. 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 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum | 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $51,400 | $40,115 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 284 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 259 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 20 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 25 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 22 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.5 gal | 16.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,900/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,641 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 114.2" | 105.1" |
| Length | 197.7" | 172.7" |
| Width | 77.9" | 74.3" |
| Height | 70.7" | 71.4" |
| 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 | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum and 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands starts at $40,115, $11,285 less than the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum at $51,400. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $199/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum is the stronger pick when the extra 34 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands is the stronger pick when you want to keep $11,285 in your pocket and the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $83/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum or 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands rates 23 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum or 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum produces 284 hp, 34 more than the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands at 250 hp. The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands also leads in torque at 277 lb-ft vs 259 lb-ft. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum runs a 3.5L V6; the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: 4WD on the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum, AWD on the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands.
Is the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum bigger than the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum is 25.0″ longer at 197.7″ vs 172.7″. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum has a 9.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum and 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum comes with 4WD, while the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands uses AWD. 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: Nissan trims, Nissan Pathfinder trims, Ford trims, Ford Bronco Sport trims
How the Pathfinder and Bronco Sport Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum ($51,400) and 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands ($40,115) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-11,285 gap adds up to $199/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Pathfinder vs Bronco Sport
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum runs a 3.5L V6; the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum has 34 more hp (284 vs 250), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Drivetrains differ: 4WD on the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum, AWD on the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands saves roughly $83/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $415.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum is 25.0″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum has a 9.1″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum when the extra 34 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands when you want to keep $11,285 in your pocket and the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands covers your needs.
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 Nissan or Ford or any dealership.