Spotlight on the 2014 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid

The SUV market has grown to become one of the most competitive on the road today, with a new generation of Americans loving the safety, comfort and practicality that these vehicles can bring. The Nissan Pathfinder has been in production since 1986, and is one of the longest running SUVs on the North American market. The Pathfinder saw a complete redesign in 2012 for the 2013 production year, and for 2014, a new hybrid model has now been added to the range. Our team at Sheehy Nissan Glen Burnie has the details.

The 2014 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid is the first Nissan model to utilize the manufacturer's brand new V6-comparable hybrid engine. The 2014 Pathfinder Hybrid caters to a niche in the market that is not yet fully realized, so it is a bold and confident move from the Japanese manufacturer to launch its hybrid engine in this model. The system includes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, an electric motor, a lithium-ion battery pack, and Nissan's continuously variable transmission (or CVT). What that means to the driver is that the Pathfinder Hybrid looks set to offer the best possible balance of performance and efficiency.

 

Nissan has yet to publish performance data for the new Pathfinder Hybrid, but the 16-valve, supercharged engine looks set to push the boundaries of what a hybrid model can achieve. In the SUV market, balancing the needs of performance against those of efficiency is a crucial step but with 27 mpg* on the highway, Pathfinder Hybrid drivers should be pleasantly pleased with what the new model can achieve.

Of course, aside from the powertrain, the Pathfinder Hybrid will boast the same specification as its gasoline counterpart. The new body shape is simple and easy on the eye, commanding a strong driving position on the road. The interior is stylish and simple, too, with luxury features throughout and a comfortable driving experience for driver and passengers alike. Nissan has introduced a host of new features to the Pathfinder model, including a new Drive-Assist™ display, which aids the driver via a 4.2-inch color 3D-effect screen.

 

The Pathfinder is stuffed full of the features that SUV drivers need. The car comfortably seats seven passengers, with top-of-class leg and headroom.** The Pathfinder Hybrid will share the same innovative seating as the rest of the Pathfinder range, including second row tip-up seats and a third row of seats, which still includes a child safety seat. All 2014 Pathfinder models will also benefit from an optional SL Tech package with Bose® premier audio, voice-activated controls, a new navigation system, an 8-inch touch screen display, and more.

Nissan announced the pricing for the main Pathfinder range in June 2013, with an announcement on the Pathfinder Hybrid due to follow soon. Customers can expect to be able take delivery of the 2014 Pathfinder Hybrid from fall 2013, and with anticipation high, this looks set to continue the Pathfinder success story.

 

*Pathfinder Hybrid estimated 27 Hwy MPG (Nissan testing results, subject to EPA confirmation). Actual mileage may vary. Use for comparison only.

**Ward's Large Cross/Utility Market Segmentation. MY13 Pathfinder vs. 2012 Large Cross/ Utility Class.