Nissan Unveils 2013 Pathfinder: Lighter, More Efficient and Aimed at Families
Nissan’s 2013 Pathfinder arrives with a new unibody platform, improved fuel economy, an upgraded interior and a lower starting price than its predecessor.
Nissan has launched the 2013 Pathfinder with a complete redesign, switching to a unibody platform, dropping 500 pounds from its curb weight and targeting families who want space and efficiency without the bulk of a traditional SUV. The new model goes on sale in the US in autumn 2012, with production beginning at Nissan’s Smyrna, Tennessee plant in August.
The most consequential change is the move to a unibody construction. This shift, along with a more aerodynamic exterior, has cut weight by around 500 pounds versus the outgoing Pathfinder. Nissan claims this delivers a 25 percent improvement in combined fuel economy, now rated at 22 mpg for front-wheel-drive variants. All-wheel-drive remains available across the range, with a three-mode dial for automatic, locked FWD or locked AWD operation.
Under the bonnet, the 2013 Pathfinder features a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 260 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 240 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. The only available transmission is the latest Xtronic CVT, which Nissan says is key to the fuel economy gains. There are no longer any V8 or four-cylinder options, nor is a manual or traditional automatic offered. Towing capacity is rated at 5,000 pounds, matching key rivals in the segment.
Interior upgrades and family-focused features
Nissan has reworked the Pathfinder’s cabin to appeal to families, with a seven-seat layout and a new EZ-Flex seating system. This allows the second row to tilt and slide forward, making access to the third row much easier than before. Cargo space is up as well, with 79.8 cubic feet available with both rear rows folded, despite the new model’s sleeker exterior profile.
The interior features higher quality materials and a more premium design, with options including leather-appointed seating, heated and cooled front seats, a 13-speaker Bose audio system, Nissan’s navigation system, Around View Monitor, Bluetooth hands-free, tri-zone entertainment and remote engine start. Dual-zone climate control is standard, and tri-zone is available.
Position in the SUV market
Nissan is clear about the Pathfinder’s new direction. The company says most buyers in this segment are not seeking serious off-road ability, but want all-weather confidence and flexible seating. For those needing more rugged capability, Nissan will continue to offer the Xterra and Armada, both with traditional body-on-frame construction.
With the 2013 Pathfinder, Nissan is targeting families who might otherwise buy a minivan or a large crossover. The move to unibody, improved fuel economy and easier third-row access are all aimed at broadening its appeal in a segment where the Pathfinder’s 2011 US sales of 25,935 lagged well behind the likes of the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, each of which sold over 100,000 units that year.
Key rivals and further details
The 2013 Pathfinder competes directly with the Chevrolet Traverse, Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Its combination of lower weight, improved fuel economy and a lower starting price will be central to Nissan’s efforts to close the sales gap. For a closer look at the Pathfinder’s new interior, see our detailed coverage at Nissan reveals 2013 Pathfinder interior.
