Nissan unveiled the new production version of the 2013 Pathfinder in
Detroit today, a family hauler that sheds 500 pounds for better fuel
economy compared with the outgoing model.
The Pathfinder shifts
from being a body-on-frame SUV to being a unibody crossover to achieve
most of its weight savings. Nissan says the result will be 30%
improvement in gas mileage. The front-wheel-drive version can now
achieve 20 miles a gallon in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Yet it
still can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
All 2013 Pathfinders come
equipped with an advanced 260-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 engine matched
with a continuously variable transmission, instead of a plain ol'
automatic. Nissan says it will be the only vehicle in its class with
selectable two- or four-wheel drive.
"While traditional SUV
customers are looking for improved fuel economy, they still demand a
vehicle that can do all the things they need, like carrying seven
people, towing, and providing the sure-footedness in all conditions of a
four-wheel drive," says Al Castignetti, general manager of the Nissan
division, in a statement.
The new Pathfinder will be built in Smyrna, Tenn., and goes on sale in the fall. Pricing hasn't been disclosed.
USA Today