2014 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid

For this new-technology Pathfinder, Nissan abandoned the SUV's underlying truck platform for a car-based crossover architecture and braced itself for two soiled words: "gentle-roader." The last-generation Pathfinder was a heavy, rugged truck adept at off-highway journey and towing. However Nissan gambled that the Pathfinder was better off with improved trip quality and expanded second- and third-row quarters. With the 2014 Pathfinder Hybrid, Nissan adds improved fuel financial system to the equation.

Instead of the stout V6 used in the standard seven-passenger Pathfinder, the hybrid uses a supercharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The four-cylinder alone is sweet for 230 horsepower, however when combined with a 15kW electrical motor, output jumps to 250 hp with 243 pound-feet of torque. Those numbers are similar to the V6's 260 hp and 240 lb-ft, but Nissan says the hybrid ought to return up to 26 mpg in combined driving. The usual Pathfinder returns 22 mpg combined in front-wheel-drive configuration.

Like the common Pathfinder, the hybrid makes use of a constantly variable transmission (CVT) and will offer entrance- or all-wheel drive. The hybrid will not be able to tow as a lot because the V6 Pathfinder, but still provides a decent 3,500-pound capacity.

Other than LED taillights, really feel-good badging and hybrid-specific data screens, the 2014 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid will not look much completely different inside or out. The second row still slides and reclines, and Nissan says a super-slim battery pack design mounted below the third row does not infringe on rear legroom or cargo space.

Quality inside supplies and match and end do not fall removed from Infiniti-esque standards, and controls are intuitive and straightforward to reach. Nissan will supply the Pathfinder Hybrid in SV, SL and Platinum trim ranges, starting with standard 18-inch wheels, Bluetooth and a rearview camera. Options and commonplace features on SL and Platinum models include 20-inch wheels, leather-based in all three rows, tri-zone climate control, a navigation system, an eight-inch touchscreen show, a premium 13-speaker Bose audio system and a rear seat leisure system.

Nissan hasn't introduced pricing for the 2014 Pathfinder Hybrid yet, however says the hybrid will carry a $three,000 premium over the usual model, which begins at $28,650. By our math, that's a 25 % enhance in fuel financial system for a 10 p.c worth hike. The 2014 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid is on the market this summer. Test again for a full overview, including specs, driving impressions and buying recommendation as it becomes available.