Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid 2014 makes U.S. debut

Nissan have followed up the launch of the all-new 2013 Pathfinder with the debut of the fuel-saving 2014 hybrid variant, which was revealed at the 2013 New York Auto Show.

The hybrid powertrain is a supercharged 2.5-litre engine (which could be the Altima’s 4-cylinder or Infiniti G25’s 6-cylinder) coupled with a lithium-ion battery and 15-kW electric motor that produces 250 hp and 330 Nm torque. The hybrid is rated at 9.05 l/100km on a mixed cycle, a 24 percent gain over the standard Pathfinder, that figure combined with the 74-litre tank gives it a range of 846 km. An intelligent dual-clutch system manages power from both the electric motor and the petrol engine, one clutch is placed between the pertol engine and the Xtronic CVT and the other between the petrol engine and the electric motor. The electric motor also acts as a generator as part of a regenerative braking system.The Pathfinder Hybrid’s ALL-MODE 4×4-i system has a selectable 2WD mode, Auto or 4WD Lock modes and there will be a 2WD model available as well.

Visually the Pathfinder Hybrid is distinguished by LED taillights and Nissan PUREDRIVE Hybrid badges.

The Advanced Drive-Assist Display in the instrument cluster on hybrid models, provides a customizable, 4.2-inch colour monitor that shows power flow readings from the electric motor and petrol engine and power regeneration.

The Hybrid versions has independent strut front/multi-link rear suspension and with hydraulic electric power-assisted steering standard. Available wheel and tyre combinations include 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/55R20 all-season tyres.

The good news is that the Hybrid retains the standard towing capacity of 3,500 pounds and maintains the cargo capacity of the standard vehicle. The space-saving Li-ion battery fitted under the 50/50 split-folding third row, preserves Pathfinder’s 60/40-split second row sliding functionality. The second row also features LATCH AND GLIDE technology that is child-seat friendly.

The Pathfinder Hybrid has a long array of features namely, Easy Fill Tire Alert, remote engine start function, Navigation System with NavTraffic real-time traffic and NavWeather, Around View Monitor, Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control, bluetooth, power rear liftgate, iPod integration, Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Start etc.
The occupants can also enjoy the leather-upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, heated second row seats and a 13-speaker Bose audio system which is accompanied by SiriusXM Satellite Radio

The three trim levels will be available on the Pathfinder Hybrid, SV, SL and Platinum. It will be priced at around Dhs 11,000 more than Pathfinder 3.5-litre V6 models when it goes on sale in late 2013.

Keep track of the latest prices and updates in the UAE and Saudi Arabia in the Nissan Pathfinder buyer guide.