Published: Jan 09, 2012

2013 Nissan Pathfinder Concept Makes Public Debut in Detroit

For the new model year, the Pathfinder has turned its attention to on-road comfort and performance.

Nissan has finally revealed the concept version of the fourth-generation Pathfinder SUV, which has returned to its unibody platform. Having been built on a truck platform in 1986, the Pathfinder had a brief spell as a unibody vehicle, before returning to its body-on-frame architecture. The latest Pathfinder variant returns to the car-like world, mirroring the move recently executed by the Ford Explorer to excellent effect.

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"If there is one constant among the first quarter century-plus of Pathfinder's existence, it has been its ability to innovate, with each generation evolving to meet the changing needs of the customer," said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "With the upcoming, fourth-generation model, we're about to re-invent Pathfinder again. We've created a vehicle with an extraordinary balance of SUV capability, thoughtful technology and premium comfort to lead the segment once again - and help owners accomplish more in the real world, not just off-road."

2013 Nissan Pathfinder Concept Makes Public Debut in Detroit

Sporting a V6 engine paired with a CVT as per its siblings the 2013 Infiniti JX and Nissan Murano, although no specs have been released, Nissan claim the Pathfinder will be 25 percent better on EPA combined cycle than the 2012 model; so expect more than 20mpg. FWD and AWD configurations should also be available. Its new aerodynamic body and smooth curves no doubt helps with fuel economy, while the SUV also has attractive wide chrome grille with large aerodynamic headlights on its aero-honed nose, recessed front windshield wipers, chrome door handles and large rear combination lights.

Three row seats remain inside with seating for seven but there's more space, especially in the rear, with Nissan dubbing the Pathfinder a full-sizer without releasing dimensions or many details, save for the fact a panoramic dual-panel moonroof will be an option. The new eight-passenger 2013 Pathfinder will go on sale in the fall, competing against the Toyota Highlander, Dodge Durango and the like.

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2013 Nissan Pathfinder Concept Makes Public Debut in Detroit

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