(April 16, 2013) With the introduction of an all-new fourth-generation Pathfinder last year, Nissan's legendary adventure-ready SUV took a major step forward in refinement, enhanced fuel economy, cutting-edge technology and family utility.

Now, for the 2014 model year, the evolution of the Pathfinder continues with the introduction of a new hybrid powertrain system designed to enhance fuel economy and reduce CO2 emissions with no reduction of driving performance, passenger roominess or cargo capacity.

The Pathfinder's new hybrid powertrain option will be available in three fully equipped trim levels when it joins the lineup late this summer. It is expected to be priced at around just $3,000 more than Pathfinder 3.5-liter V6 models.

Said Nissan North America, Inc. Vice President, Product Planning Pierre Loing: "The Pathfinder Hybrid is highly affordable because it matches motor and battery size well, while minimizing the number of additional parts or modifications needed to the platform and body. It is designed as a logical bridge between conventional internal combustion engine powertrains and the wider acceptance of hybrid systems by providing enhanced efficiency with no compromises versus the standard vehicle."

The Pathfinder Hybrid blends "green" technology with comfortable seating for seven and 3,500-pound towing capacity.

For the hybrid version, Pathfinder's standard 3.5-liter V6 is replaced by a new supercharged 2.5-liter gasoline engine and an electric motor paired with a compact Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery. The 15 kW electric motor and gas engine work in tandem to provide performance similar to the conventional Pathfinder. The system is rated at 250 net horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque — versus the 3.5-liter V6's 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque.

The hybrid system also uses a Nissan Intelligent Dual Clutch System (one motor / two clutch parallel system) that manages power from both the electric motor and the gas engine. Positioned between the gasoline engine and the next-gen Xtronic CVT (where the torque converter would normally be), the motor also functions as a generator, conveying deceleration force from the CVT to the battery. One clutch is installed between the gasoline engine and the electric motor, the other within the CVT.

Fuel economy is estimated at 26 mpg combined, an increase of 24 percent over the standard Pathfinder. Estimated City fuel economy is 25 mpg, while highway mileage is estimated at 27 mpg. With the Pathfinder Hybrid's large 19.5-gallon fuel tank, the same as non-hybrid models, driving range is estimated at more than 526 miles.

Another key to the system's non-compromising design efficiency is the use of a space-saving Li-ion battery fitted under the 3rd row seat, preserving Pathfinder's unique 2nd row sliding functionality and easy access to the 3rd row. A regenerative braking system automatically recharges the battery by converting the vehicle's kinetic energy that would be otherwise lost in braking.

Said Loing: "With this innovative design, there is no reduction of passenger seating capacity, 2nd or 3rd row legroom or cargo space. And, with the flat rather than raised floor, entry and exit to and from every row is as easy and convenient as the non-hybrid Pathfinder models."