New Unibody Pathfinder Concept Features Streamlined Styling

RAYNHAM, MASS. (01/16/2012)(readMedia)-- Some concept vehicles never see the light of day after their auto show debuts, but the next-generation Nissan Pathfinder Concept is closer to fact than fiction. Unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit last week, the automaker's concept SUV gave fans a preview of forthcoming fourth-generation Pathfinder, slated to go on sale in production form at Nissan dealerships this fall.

Although Nissan has upgraded the Pathfinder's exterior styling and powertrain, the most notable change to the SUV lies at its core. The new Nissan Pathfinder Concept features a unibody platform, marking a return to the second-generation Pathfinder's lighter configuration. With a change in chassis and an updated drivetrain, Nissan expects a 25-percent increase in combined city and highway fuel economy compared with the current V6-equipped Pathfinder.

"Unibody and body-on-frame constructions each have their pros and cons, and Nissan has experimented with both on the Pathfinder," said Jason Ferreira, general sales manager of Raynham, Massachusetts Nissan dealership Mastria Nissan. "Along with making the new Pathfinder lighter and more fuel efficient, the new unibody construction gives designers the leeway to create a strong presence throughout the interior and exterior styling."

Unibody construction platforms generally allow designers to change the exterior of a vehicle without affecting the dimensions of the interior, and vice versa. Because of this, Nissan claims that 2013 Pathfinder buyers will gain more flexibility in regards to interior options. The change has also allowed the automaker to make the new Pathfinder Concept more aerodynamic, and thus more fuel efficient, without cutting into passengers' headspace or cargo room.

The aerodynamically enhanced exterior of the Pathfinder offers an upscale presence thanks to its low beltline, large fenders, wide stance and thinner A- and D-pillars. Adding to the SUV's aerodynamics are new front and rear spoilers, rear-tire deflectors and rear-suspension fairings. Meanwhile, sleeker headlights, a wide chrome grille and chrome door handles add more luxury touches to the concept SUV, as a panoramic dual-panel moonroof maintains the Pathfinder's visual connection to the outdoors.

Under the hood, the Nissan concept SUV houses a new V6 engine and a next-generation continuously variable transmission expected to help the next Pathfinder reach its improved fuel-efficiency mark. Even with that improved gas mileage, Nissan still expects the SUV to have towing capacity that is competitive with leaders in the segment.

Nissan is currently holding its #Path2Pathfinder contest on its Facebook page, inviting fans to share the new feature on the Pathfinder Concept that excites them the most. Seven randomly drawn winners will receive a $500 gift certificate to outdoor gear and clothing supplier REI after the promotion ends on January 13. Entrants must respond with the #Path2Pathfinder hashtag on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube after following directions at https://www.facebook.com/Nissan?sk=app_249175185131573.

"Nissan has always kept the needs of its customers at the forefront while refining the Pathfinder over the course of 27 years," added Ferreira. "The updates shown in Detroit were based on customer feedback, and now Nissan is listening to its customers online before putting the finishing touches on another generation of Pathfinders."

About Mastria Nissan:

Mastria Nissan has been serving Massachusetts Nissan fans since 2004, focusing on exceptional customer service and a low-pressure sales environment. Their Nissan dealership offers the full line of Nissan sedans, crossovers and pickups, as well as a state-of-the-art Nissan service department staffed with skilled technicians. Plus, Mastria Nissan is the only authorized NV dealer in the area, making them the destination for business owners in Southern Massachusetts who need commercial vehicles. Located at 1305 New State Highway in Raynham, they can reached by phone at 888-820-9028 or found online at www.mastrianissan.com and www.facebook.com/MastriaNissan.