Besides the weight advantage, Nissan says that the Pathfinder’s new unibody chassis design improves ride/handling, NVH and structural rigidity. The rigid platform is also key to maintaining the trailer-towing capability expected from an SUV – the vehicle has a standard towing capacity of 5000 pounds, which is best in segment.
All 2013 Pathfinders come with a 260 hp 3.5L V6 engine matched with a next-generation Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The driver can select 2WD, Auto or 4WD modes from Nissan’s All-Mode 4X4-i system. The SUV is also available as a 4X2 and in four trim levels – S, SV, SL and Platinum.
Fuel economy has improved more than 30% over that of the 2012 Pathfinder. Both FWD and 4WD Pathfinders lead their segments in fuel economy.
The new Pathfinder also features EZ Flex Seating System with Latch And Glide. Nissan describes Latch And Glide as an industry first second row tip-up seat for use with a child safety seat, which also provides easy access to the third row while keeping the child seat securely fastened.
The middle row also features 60/40 split-folding with a segment best 5.5 inches of seat travel. Class-exclusive features include Easy Fill Tire Alert and Around View Monitor.
Other available amenities include leather seats, heated steering wheel, heated and cooled front seats, programmable Nissan Intelligent Key, Nissan Navigation System, Bluetooth, 13-speaker Bose audio, satellite radio, dual-zone climate control, rear view monitor, remote engine start and tri-zone entertainment system.
