Nissan Pathfinder

Introduction

If you are a fuel conscious car shopper who is interested in combining hybrid gas mileage with SUV practicality then it’s not a good idea as for a long time “hybrid” and “SUV” have been mutually exclusive. They are both totally different. After the introduction of Pathfinder, Nissan introduced the most fuel efficient hybrid which was named Pathfinder Hybrid.

The Pathfinder Hybrid is a midsize SUV. It too has 3-row seating and hybrid power which one can get for less than $40,000. If one is looking for something fast, well guess what, Pathfinder Hybrid is not especially fast but it offers things that many SUV lovers are looking for- family practicality and fuel economy. The Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid has all of the luxury, styles and utilities, which a driver expects from a vehicle. Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid provides enough space for a driver despite having seating for 7 passengers. Nissan has used its innovative thinking in increasing the fuel economy with no reduction in seating for 7 passengers. This model is equipped with a V6 and considering how well it works, we’re surprised that other automakers don’t try something similar.

What’s new for 2014 nissan hybrid?

1-      The Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid is equipped with 2.5 liters gasoline engine and an electric motor which is paired to a compact lithium ion battery.

2-      Introduction of Nissan intelligent Dual Clutch system that efficiently manages the power from both electric motor and gas engine.

3-      Higher fuel economy.

4-      Body construction is elegant and beautiful.

5-      Inclusion of regenerative braking system to recharge the battery during braking.

HOW MUCH?

The Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid ranges from $35,900- $45,100.

Fuel economy

The Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid is a beauty. The sole purpose of introduction of Hybrid was increased fuel economy and this car stands out well. The beauty of the Pathfinder Hybrid that it offers just one 2.5 liters hybrid engine and transmission combination. It has got a 250hp and 4 cylinders mated to a CVT automatic.

For a 2 wheel drive, the rated economy is 25 miles per gallon in city and 28 miles per gallon on highway. On the other hand, for all the other drives, it has got an economy of 25 miles per gallon in the city and 27 miles per gallon on highway.

STANDARD FEATURES AND OPTIONS

There are three trim levels which the Pathfinder Hybrid offers namely: base level SV, mid-level SL and luxurious one Platinum.

1-      The SV level starts at a price of $35,900 and the things it has to offer are 18-in alloy wheel, keyless entry and tri-zone automatic climate control. The second and third row seats have got a split folding. This level also includes cruise control and a 6-disc CD changer.

2-      On reaching the higher level of this hybrid that is SL class, you will get to know that apart from above mentioned features it adds leather upholstery, fog lights, heated front and rear seats and a remote engine starter. The price starts from $38,800.  This class also includes power front seats and a power rear lift gate. If you want SL’s premium package which costs additional $1,700 you’ll get a panoramic sun roof and a Bose audio system and this somewhat makes it look classy.

3-      The top model of the Nissan pathfinder Hybrid is The Platinum which starts at a price of $43,500. Rather than 18-in it has got 20-in alloy wheels. This model stands at the top for its features which it has to offer. A navigation system with voice recognition and an 8-in touchscreen, around view monitor camera system and a power tilt and telescoping steering wheel were also included. If you go for a premium package for which you’ll be paying $2,200 extra, you’ll get panoramic sunroof and a tri-zone rear entertainment system. If you are going for this car, then it’s a good choice for its really a car you will love sitting behind the wheels.

SAFETY FEATURES.

Nissan really pays a keen and careful attention for its safety features to be included. The safety features in this hybrid includes the following:-

1-      Inclusion of an advanced air bag system. This system includes front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors in two stages and an occupant classification sensor.

2-      3-point seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters were also added.

3-      Front seat mounted with side impact air bags in order to provide protection from the side injury.

4-      Curtain air bags for side impacts for passengers in all three rows.

5-      Traction control system was also added (TCS). This system enables a proper control over the traction that occurs.

6-      Addition of standard vehicle dynamic control (VDC).

7-      Lower anchors and tethers for children (LATCH) was also provided.

8-      To monitor the tire pressure, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) was installed which activates during the filling of tire and honks the horn when the required tire pressure limit is reached.

UNDER THE HOOD

The Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid is one of the well-mannered and highly capable crossover. It has got a 2.5 liters engine and a 4-cylinder is just no match for the SUV’s weight and size. Though it lacks performance but many will trade it for fuel economy. The interior and the cabin is beautifully fabricated and insulated.

WHAT WE LIKE

1-      The gas mileage it gives is really excellent. So you have got a vast range with so good a mileage that you will really find this car admirable.

2-      You can get it at a reasonable rate with three different trim levels to choose. All these three levels have a good fuel economy and features to die for.

3-      It provides the practicality and comfort which a family require. The looks and interior are so well that it will make you fall for it.

WHAT WE DON’T LIKE.

1-      It lacks the quickness. Its acceleration is not quite good.

2-      There can be improvement in the cargo capacity as cargo space is very less.