Future Hybrid Cars: the 2013 Edition

Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid

Nissan’s last venture into hybrid technology was short lived, with the Altima Hybrid being offered for only one generation. But with the Nissan Leaf the Japanese company has learned quite a bit about electric powertrains, and efficiency. Those lessons are going to be applied to the new Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, which ditches the usual V6 for a supercharged four-cylinder engine, which works in tandem with a 15 kW electric motor.

The hybrid powertrain makes a combined 250 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque, not far off the V6’s 260 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque. The biggest difference is with the Pathfinder’s fuel economy. Buyers will notice a 24 percent improvement over the V6 model. Expect 25 mpg city, 27 mpg on the highway and a combined mpg number of 26 mpg. Nissan also says the Pathfinders off-road capability and 3,500-lb tow-rating will not be affected by the new powertrain.

Discuss the Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid at pathfindertalk.com