2014 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid Offers 26 MPG Combined Fuel Economy and 526-Mile Driving Range – With No Compromise of Performance or Interior Roominess
- Most Fuel-Efficient Pathfinder Ever Features New Affordable Hybrid System
- Available in Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive or Front-Wheel Drive and Choice of Trim Levels
With the introduction of an all-new fourth-generation Pathfinder for the 2013 model year, Nissan’s legendary adventure-ready Next Gen SUV took a major step forward in refinement, enhanced fuel economy, cutting-edge technology and family utility – including its industry first EZ Flex™ Seating System with innovative LATCH AND GLIDE™ technology. Now, for the 2014 model year, the evolution of the Pathfinder continues with the introduction of a new affordable hybrid powertrain system designed to enhance fuel economy and reduce CO2 emissions with no reduction of driving performance, passenger roominess or cargo capacity.
The Pathfinder’s new Hybrid powertrain option will be available in three fully equipped trim levels – SV, SL and Platinum – when it joins the lineup in late summer 2013. It is expected to be priced at around just $3,000 more than Pathfinder 3.5-liter V6 models.
Said Nissan North America, Inc. Vice President, Product Planning Pierre Loing: “The Pathfinder Hybrid is highly affordable because it matches motor and battery size well, while minimizing the number of additional parts or modifications needed to the platform and body. It is designed as a logical bridge between conventional internal combustion engine powertrains and the wider acceptance of hybrid systems by providing enhanced efficiency with no compromises versus the standard vehicle.”
Adventure Goes Green
Known as the perfect family adventure vehicle, the Pathfinder Hybrid blends “green” technology with comfortable seating for seven and 3,500-pound towing capacity (when properly equipped).
For the Hybrid version, Pathfinder’s standard 3.5-liter V6 is replaced by a new supercharged 2.5-liter gasoline engine and an electric motor paired with a compact Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery. The 15 kW electric motor and gas engine work in tandem to provide performance similar to the conventional Pathfinder. The system is rated at 250 net horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque – versus the 3.5-liter V6’s 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque.
The hybrid system also uses a Nissan Intelligent Dual Clutch System (one motor / two clutch parallel system) that efficiently manages power from both the electric motor and the gas engine. Positioned between the gasoline engine and the next-gen Xtronic CVT® (where the torque converter would normally be), the motor also functions as a generator, conveying deceleration force from the CVT to the battery. One clutch is installed between the gasoline engine and the electric motor, the other within the CVT.
Fuel economy is estimated* at 26 mpg Combined, an increase of 24 percent over the standard Pathfinder. Estimated City fuel economy is 25 mpg, while Highway mileage is estimated at 27 mpg. With the Pathfinder Hybrid’s large 19.5-gallon fuel tank, the same as non-hybrid models, driving range is estimated at more than 526 miles**.
Another key to the system’s non-compromising design efficiency is the use of a space-saving Li-ion battery fitted under the 3rd row seat, preserving Pathfinder’s unique 2nd row sliding functionality and easy access to the 3rd row. A regenerative braking system automatically recharges the battery by converting the vehicle’s kinetic energy that would be otherwise lost in braking.
Said Loing: “With this innovative design, there is no reduction of passenger seating capacity, 2nd or 3rd row legroom or cargo space. And, with the flat rather than raised floor, entry and exit to and from every row is as easy and convenient as the non-hybrid Pathfinder models.”
Visually the Pathfinder Hybrid is marked by efficient LED taillights and Nissan PUREDRIVE® Hybrid badges. In addition, special hybrid information screens are added to the instrument panel’s Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display.
Next Generation Style, Spaciousness and Comfort
Beyond its hybrid powertrain and distinctive LED taillights, the 2014 Pathfinder Hybrid is pure fourth-generation Pathfinder. That means that along with reduced weight of its unibody construction (versus the previous generation’s body-on-frame design), it offers an attractive, aerodynamic exterior without compromising headroom or cargo capacity. The look is adventure-ready with wheel-oriented muscular fenders and a strong, stable stance. The upper body features an open cabin with a low beltline and thin A- and D-pillars, which flow smoothly into the rugged, durable-looking lower body. The coefficient of drag is 0.34.
Other exterior details include a wide chrome grille and large aerodynamic headlights, recessed front windshield wipers, chrome door handles and the large rear LED combination lights. An available Dual Panorama Moonroof, with sliding opening front panel and fixed rear glass panel which extends over the 2nd and 3rd rows, combines with the large windows to create an open, airy interior environment.
Pathfinder’s quiet, comfortable interior includes a wide range of available features, including three rows of rich leather-appointed seating surfaces, heated and cooled front seats, heated 2nd row seats, heated steering wheel, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, Nissan Intelligent Key® with Push Button Start, multiple user memory settings and an advanced Bose® Audio System with 13 speakers. SiriusXM Satellite Radio is standard (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately).
An unmatched level of versatility comes to life in the design of the 2nd and 3rd rows with exceptional 3rd row access – thanks to large rear door openings and the EZ Flex™ Seating System with 5.5 inches of 2nd row seat travel for ease of entry and exit to the 3rd row. The 60/40-split 2nd row features innovative LATCH AND GLIDE™ technology that allows forward movement and access to the 3rd row with a child safety seat remaining securely in place (on the passenger curb side). With the extensive 2nd row seat travel, it’s easy to adjust legroom or accommodate cargo spontaneously as needed.
The 3rd row seat is a 50/50 split-folding design, offering added cargo flexibility, and it also reclines for greater passenger comfort – a feature not offered with other SUVs in class. Both the 2nd and 3rd row seats fold flat for optimal cargo capacity.
Thoughtful, Advanced Technology
Thoughtful technology is also found throughout the Pathfinder Hybrid interior, starting with the instrument panel, which includes the Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display in the center of the instrument cluster right in front of the driver. With hybrid-equipped models, the customizable, easy-to-read 4.2-inch color monitor can show power flow readings from the electric motor and gas engine, along with power regeneration back into the battery.
The instrument panel also includes a large multifunction center IT display, available Nissan Navigation System with NavTraffic real-time traffic and NavWeather weather information (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), Zagat Survey® restaurant guide, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth® and RearView Monitor.
Pathfinder also features available advanced, class-exclusive*** Around View® Monitor, which provides the driver a virtual 360-degree image of the area around the vehicle. Other technology includes Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, power rear liftgate, iPod® integration and tri-zone entertainment system with 2nd row head restraint-mounted DVD display screens.
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with individual tire pressure display and class-exclusive Easy Fill Tire Alert that provides both visual and audible signals to help owners conveniently maintain correct tire pressures without the use of a gauge is standard. The available remote engine start function allows the climate control system to warm up or cool down the interior prior to driving.
Responsive Handling, Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive
Like all Pathfinders, Hybrid versions offer a quiet, comfortable ride and handling provided by an independent strut front/multi-link rear suspension and with hydraulic electric power-assisted steering standard. Available wheel and tire combinations include 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/55R20 all-season tires.
With the available intuitive four-wheel drive, Pathfinder continues to serve as an excellent vehicle for inclement weather driving conditions.
Pathfinder is the only vehicle in class**** with selectable 2WD, Auto or 4WD Lock modes for its available intuitive ALL-MODE 4×4-i system. The system lets the driver choose full-time 2WD for maximum fuel economy, Auto mode to automatically monitor conditions and adjust the balance of power between front and rear wheels for best traction, or 4WD Lock mode when the confidence of full-time 4WD is desired. In addition, standard Hill Start Assist helps add control when starting and driving away on a steep incline (both 4WD and 2WD models).
Hybrid-equipped Pathfinders also retain the ability to tow boats, jet skis, trailers and a variety of other recreational gear with standard towing capacity of 3,500 pounds (when properly equipped).
2014 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid At a Glance
After revitalizing sales of the legendary Pathfinder brand with the 2013 introduction of an all-new fourth-generation design, Nissan’s iconic SUV takes another major step forward with the introduction of the first-ever Pathfinder Hybrid for the 2014 model year. As demand for high efficiency gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles grows, Pathfinder offers a uniquely Nissan “innovation” approach that increases fuel economy and driving range with no reduction of its 7-passenger/3-row roominess, ample cargo space or responsive performance compared to Pathfinder V6-equipped models.
At the heart of the new 2014 Pathfinder Hybrid – which is offered in 2-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive models – is its supercharged 2.5-liter gasoline engine and an electric motor paired to a compact Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery. The Li-ion battery fits under the 3rd row seat so there is no compromise of passenger seating capacity, 2nd or 3rd row legroom or cargo space. With the flat rather than raised floor, entry and exit to and from every row is as easy and convenient as the standard Pathfinder models.
The hybrid system uses a Nissan Intelligent Dual Clutch System (one motor / two clutch parallel system) that efficiently manages power from both the electric motor and the gas engine. The 15 kW electric motor and gas engine work in tandem to provide performance equivalent to the non-hybrid Pathfinder’s 3.5-liter gasoline V6. The system is rated at 250 net horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque – versus the 3.5-liter V6 ratings of 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque.
The new Pathfinder Hybrid also uses an advanced, next-generation Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission). Fuel economy is estimated* at 26 mpg Combined, an increase of 24 percent (versus standard Pathfinder). Estimated* City fuel economy is 25 mpg, while Highway mileage is estimated at 27 mpg. With the Pathfinder HEV’s large 19.5-gallon fuel tank, the same as conventional models, driving range is estimated at more than 526 miles**.
The Pathfinder Hybrid features regenerative braking to automatically recharge the battery during braking by converting the vehicle’s kinetic energy otherwise lost in braking. Like the conventional models, it is also the only vehicle in class*** with selectable 2WD, Auto or 4WD Lock modes from the available intuitive ALL-MODE 4×4-i system. Standard towing rating for the adventure-ready Pathfinder Hybrid is 3,500 pounds (when properly equipped).
Visually the Pathfinder Hybrid is marked by exclusive, efficient LED taillights and Nissan PUREDRIVE® Hybrid badges. In addition, special hybrid system information screens are added to the instrument panel’s Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display.
The customizable, easy-to-read 4.2-inch color monitor can show power output readings from the electric motor and gas engine, along with how much power is being regenerated back into the battery.
Beyond these changes, the new Hybrid is pure Pathfinder – combining core Pathfinder values of fun, utility and fresh style with exceptional versatility and full-size comfort for seven within a mid-size SUV platform. With its efficient unibody construction, it offers best-in-class passenger volume*** and innovative EZ Flex Seating System™ with LATCH AND GLIDE™, an industry first 2nd row tip-up seat which allows easy 3rd row access with a child safety seat still installed.
A range of available amenities are also offered with Pathfinder Hybrid, including three rows of leather-appointed seating, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, programmable Nissan Intelligent Key®, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, 13-speaker Bose® Premium Audio system, Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control, RearView Monitor, Remote Engine Start, Tri-Zone Entertainment System, Dual Panorama Moonroof and standard SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately).
The available 8.0-inch touch-screen monitor, mounted in the middle of the instrument panel, provides intuitive interaction and control of the Nissan Navigation System, along with a variety of driver-selectable vehicle systems and settings. Other available technology includes the Easy Fill Tire Alert system and class-exclusive**** Around View® Monitor.
Like all Pathfinders, the Hybrid offers a quiet, comfortable ride and handling provided by an independent strut front/multi-link rear suspension and standard hydraulic electric power-assisted steering. Available wheel and tire combinations include 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/55R20 all-season tires.
The 2014 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid is available in 4WD and 2WD drive configurations and in three trim levels: SV, SL and Platinum.
Highlights of the new 2014 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid include:
Body
- Modern, aerodynamic exterior styling with bold design cues
- 0.34 coefficient of drag
- Smart fusion of signature Nissan styling cues and dynamic strength
- Fresh interpretation of Nissan’s “power strut” grille design
- Adventure-ready with wheel-oriented muscular fenders and a strong stance
- Open upper cabin with low beltline and thin A- and D-pillars
- Long wheelbase, short front and rear overhangs
- Chrome grille, front and rear door handles and front and rear fascia accents
- Body color bumpers and dual power remote-controlled outside mirrors (manual fold)
- Available heated outside mirrors and mirror reverse synch
- Front (chin) and rear (roof) spoilers, rear tire deflectors and rear suspension fairing
- Black roof molding, available chrome bodyside molding
- UV-reducing solar glass, rear privacy glass
- Standard auto on/off headlights with auto hazard system (linked to front wipers with twilight detection)
- Available fog lights
- Hybrid-exclusive LED taillights and rear markers
- Available Dual Panorama Moonroof with one-touch open/close controls (front), manual front sunshade and rear roof glass with power sunshade
- Available power liftgate with closure assist, liftgate position memory
- Available painted roof rails and cross bars
- Eight available exterior colors – Mocha Stone, Desert Sand, Brilliant Silver, Dark Slate, Super Black, Cayenne Red, Moonlight White and Artic Blue Metallic
- Hybrid badges on front doors and liftgate
Engine and Driveline
- Nissan Intelligent Dual Clutch Hybrid system, which combines a compact laminated lithium-ion battery design with an innovative
- one-motor/two-clutch motor control
- 2.5-liter DOHC supercharged 4-cylinder gasoline engine producing 230 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque
- 15 kW electric motor rated at 20 horsepower and 29 lb-ft of torque
- Hybrid system net power: 250 horsepower
- Next-generation Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission)
- Available intuitive All-Mode 4×4-i system with 2WD/AUTO/4WD Lock modes
- Standard 2-wheel or 4-wheel active brake limited slip (ABLS)
- Standard Hill Start Assist
- Available tow hitch receiver, trailer harness and finisher (standard on Hybrid Platinum)
- 3,500-pound towing capacity (when properly equipped)
Suspension, Steering and Braking
- Durable unibody construction
- Independent strut front suspension with stabilizer bar
- Multi-link rear suspension with stabilizer bar
- Twin tube shock absorbers with dual flow path
- Hydraulic electric speed-sensitive power-assisted steering
- Regenerative braking system
- 4-wheel vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist
- 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with light gun metallic paint finish, 235/65R18 all-season tires (Hybrid SV, SL)
- Available 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with light gun metallic paint finish, 235/55R20 all-season tires (Hybrid Platinum)
Interior Features
- Stylish interior design with 7-passenger seating
- 8-way power driver’s seat with manual lumbar support, available 4-way power front passenger seat, available 2-way power driver’s seat lumbar support
- Available Heated and Cooled front seats
- Standard 2nd row 60/40-split seat with manual slide/recline/fold flat
- Standard 3rd row 50/50-split seat with manual recline/flat fold
- Segment unique EZ Flex Seating System™ with 3rd row access from 2nd row walk-in function and LATCH AND GLIDE™ child safety seat slide functionality (on passenger side seat)
- Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display with Hybrid power usage and charge regeneration information displays
- Standard 7-inch color multi-information display (QVGA) with RearView Monitor
- Available 8-inch color monitor with VGA touch display
- Available heated steering wheel (standard on Platinum model)
- Available Nissan Navigation System with Voice Recognition, NavTraffic and NavWeather (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), Zagat
- Survey® Restaurant Guide, Bluetooth® Streaming Audio
- Nissan Intelligent Key® with Push Button Ignition
- Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System
- Available 13-speaker Bose® audio system with Acoustic Waveguide Subwoofer
- SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately)
- Available leather-appointed 1st, 2nd and 3rd row and 1st row power memory seats
- Power windows with driver/front passenger one-touch auto up/down with auto-reverse
- Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control, rear air conditioning
- Class-exclusive**** available Around View® Monitor
- Available dual head restraint-mounted DVD video entertainment system
- Available wood-toned interior trim accents
- Two available interior colors – Almond and Charcoal
- Storage compartment under cargo floor, cargo area light
- Available remote engine start
Safety and Security
- Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (includes dual-stage front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors and an occupant classification sensor)
- 3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
- Standard supplemental front seat-mounted side-impact air bags
- Standard roof-mounted supplemental curtain air bags for side impact and rollover head protection for outboard passengers in all three rows
- 3-point seat belts for rear seat occupants, including 2nd row center position
- Standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS)
- LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) – 2nd row outboard seating positions only
- Child safety rear door locks
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with standard Easy Fill Tire Alert, available independent tire pressure monitoring (SV and above)
- Brake Override Technology
Models and Manufacturing
- Available in 4WD and 2WD Hybrid drive configurations and in three models: SV, SL and Platinum
- Assembled by Nissan North America manufacturing Smyrna & Decherd Tennessee plants
