THE 2014 NISSAN PATHFINDER HYBRID OFFERS 26 MPG COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY AND APROX. 500 MILE DRIVING RANGE – WITHOUT COMPROMISING PERFORMANCE OR INTERIOR ROOMINESS

The evolution of the Pathfinder continues with the introduction of a new affordable hybrid powertrain system designed to help enhance fuel economy and help reduce CO2 emissions without compromising driving performance, passenger compartment roominess or cargo capacity.

The Pathfinder with the new hybrid powertrain option is available in three fully equipped trim levels – SV, SL and Platinum.

The Pathfinder Hybrid matches motor and battery size well while minimizing the number of additional parts or modifications needed to the platform and body. The new generation unibody-based Pathfinder weighs almost 500 pounds less than the previous generation body-on-frame design, which helps contribute to the enhanced fuel economy performance. Along with reduced weight, Pathfinder’s unibody platform provided the designers with an opportunity to create the more aerodynamic exterior without compromising headroom or cargo capacity compared to the previous generation Pathfinder.

For the Hybrid version, Pathfinder’s standard 3.5-liter V6 is replaced by a new QR25DER supercharged 2.5-liter gas engine and an electric motor paired with a lithiumion (Li-Ion) battery. The 15 kW electric motor and gas engine, fitted with a Roots-type supercharger, work in tandem to provide performance similar to the conventional Pathfinder. The adoption of the Roots blower with fourlobed rotors is effective at developing positive intake manifold pressure at low engine speeds which helps with improving engine output and combustion efficiency. Peak torque can be achieved by about 2000 rpm.

To save fuel, the 4-cylinder gasoline engine operates when it needs to and may shut down to conserve fuel when the vehicle is coasting or stopped.

During the IC engine OFF condition, the drive -wheels are powered by the electric motor.

The QR25DER gas engine utilizes sodium-filled exhaust valves and hydrogen-free DLC coating on the lifters enabling high-compression by helping to control knocking without increasing the temperature in the combustion chamber.

The sodium-filled exhaust valves helps reduce valve temperature and improves the intake efficiency, while the hydrogen-free DLC coating on the valve lifters and the piston rings helps with lowering friction.

Hybrid System Accelerating or Load is High

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 uses the Nissan Intelligent Dual Clutch System (one motor/two clutch parallel system) that efficiently manages power from both the electric motor and the gas engine. Positioned between the gas engine and the next-gen Xtronic CVT® (where the torque converter would normally be), the motor also functions as a generator, conveying the kinetic energy from the rotating wheels into electric power for the Li-ion battery. As for the two clutches, one is installed between the gas engine and the electric motor while the other is within the CVT. When both clutches are engaged, the engine and electric motor connect directly to the CVT, allowing the electric motor to augment torque from the engine as required. This creates the potential for powerful acceleration. To conserve fuel, the electric motor can power the Pathfinder at start-up and while coasting. When accelerating, passing or towing a boat, the gas engine output works in tandem with the electric motor, to help power the vehicle.

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 Hybrid’s electric motor which is powered by a series of lithium-ion cells housed in a space-saving battery pack. The compact Li-Ion battery pack fits right under the floor, fitted under the 3rd row seat, preserving Pathfinder’s unique 2nd row sliding functionality and easy access to the 3rd row.

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.

Regeneration Brake System

A regenerative braking system automatically partially recharges the battery by converting the vehicle’s kinetic energy that would be otherwise lost in braking. The regenerative braking system captures energy and uses it to partially recharge the lithium-ion batteries. That stored energy is then reused during acceleration. The Pathfinder Hybrid’s battery pack is also continuously charged by energy recovered from decelerating and, when necessary, the gas engine. A regenerative brake drives the traction motor to act as an alternator, and converts the kinetic energy produced by rotation of the wheels into electrical energy. The traction motor inverter calculates the regenerative braking force needed to produce the required braking force, and it sends the result to the ABS actuator and electric unit (control unit). At the same time, the traction motor inverter uses the traction motor to perform regenerative braking.

Style, Spaciousness and Comfort

Visually the differences between the conventional Pathfinder and the Pathfinder Hybrid are the efficient LED taillights and the Nissan PUREDRIVE® Hybrid badges.

Beyond its hybrid powertrain and distinctive LED taillights, the 2014 Pathfinder Hybrid is a pure fourth-generation Pathfinder. Along with the reduced weight of its unibody construction (versus the previous generation’s body-onframe design), it offers an attractive, aerodynamic exterior without compromising headroom or cargo capacity. The look is adventure-ready with wheel-oriented muscular fenders and a strong, stable stance. The upper body features an open cabin with a low beltline with more defined A- and D-pillars, which flow smoothly into the rugged, durablelooking lower body. The coefficient of drag is 0.34.

Other exterior details include a wide chrome grille and large aerodynamic headlights, recessed front windshield wipers, chrome door handles and large rear LED combination lights. An available Dual Panorama Moonroof, with a sliding opening front panel and a fixed rear glass panel, which extends over the 2nd and 3rd rows, combines with the large windows to create an open, airy interior environment.

Interior

The Pathfinder’s quiet, comfortable interior is available with three rows of rich leather-appointed seating surfaces. Other available features include heated and cooled front seats, heated 2nd row seats, heated steering wheel, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel. The hybrid is comes equipped with the Nissan Intelligent Key® with Push Button Start that allows multiple user memory settings. An advanced Bose® Audio System with 13 speakers, and SiriusXM® Satellite Radio is standard (SiriusXM® subscription required).

An unmatched level of versatility comes to life in the design of the 2nd and 3rd rows with exceptional 3rd row access – thanks to large rear door openings and the EZ Flex™ Seating System with 5.5 inches of 2nd row seat travel for ease of entry and exit to the 3rd row. The 60/40-split 2nd row features innovative LATCH AND GLIDE™ technology that allows forward movement and access to the 3rd row with a child safety seat remaining securely in place (on the passenger right side). With the extensive 2nd row seat travel, it is easy to adjust legroom or accommodate cargo spontaneously as needed.

The 3rd row seat is a 50/50 split-folding design, offering added cargo flexibility, and it also reclines for greater passenger comfort – a feature not offered with other SUVs in its class. Both the 2nd and 3rd row seats fold flat for optimal cargo capacity.

Technology

Thoughtful technology is also found throughout the Pathfinder Hybrid interior, starting with the instrument panel, which includes the Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display in the center of the instrument cluster. With hybrid-equipped models, the customizable, easy-to-read 4.2-inch color monitor can show power flow readings from the electric motor and gas engine along with power regeneration back into the battery.

The instrument panel also includes a large multifunction center IT display, available Nissan Navigation System with NavTraffic real-time traffic and NavWeather weather information (SiriusXM® subscription required), Zagat Survey® restaurant guide, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth® and RearView Monitor.

Pathfinder also features available advanced, class-exclusive Around View® Monitor, which provides the driver a virtual 360-degree image of the area around the vehicle. Other technology includes Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, power rear liftgate, iPod® integration and Tri-Zone entertainment system. While the driver and passenger listen to music, 2nd row passengers can watch movies, play video games, plug in a laptop, all on dual 7-inch DVD monitors, while listening on wireless headphones. The entire system can be controlled through the touch-screen display on the instrument panel.

Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control

The Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control system lets the driver and the front passenger set their own climate settings, as well as a third setting for the 2nd and 3rd row passengers. When the climate control is in automatic mode, the system will maintain the pre-set temperature by automatically cooling or heating as required.

The ECM sends a compressor ON request to the IPDM E/R based on the status of engine operation and load as well as refrigerant pressure information. If all the conditions are met for A/C operation, the ECM transmits the compressor ON request to the IPDM E/R. The ECM shares the refrigerant pressure sensor signal, engine RPM, and engine coolant temperature with the A/C auto amp. via CAN communication line.

Since the A/C compressor is run by the internal combustion engine (ICE), any time the A/C compressor is engaged, the internal combustion engine will be ON. To help ensure start-up in all weather conditions (especially extreme cold weather), it is possible that the ICE will run briefly at shut down even when the ignition switch is pressed to OFF. The reason for this is to make sure that the internal combustion engine crank position is in the optimal position for the customer to re-start the vehicle.

Hydraulic Pump Electric Power Steering System

The power steering control module controls the speed of the power steering motor according to the vehicle speed and steering angle speed. By changing the power steering oil pump flow, the power steering control module controls the steering assist force.

When the steering angle speed is high or the vehicle speed is low, assist force is generated by increasing discharge amount from the power steering oil pump and by raising system hydraulic pressure.

The electrically driven hydraulic power steering system enhances fuel efficiency because it does not depend on engine power.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with individual tire pressure display and Easy Fill Tire Alert™ on the Pathfinder HEV provides both visual and audible signals to help owners conveniently maintain correct tire pressures without the use of a gauge, is standard.

Like all Pathfinders, the Hybrid versions offer a quiet, comfortable ride and handling, provided by an independent strut front/multi-link rear suspension, and hydraulic electric power-assisted steering standard.

ALL-MODE 4x4-i system

Pathfinder can be equipped with selectable 2WD, Auto or 4WD Lock modes for its available intuitive ALL-MODE 4x4-i system. This advanced system provides the capability and flexibility to vary power delivery to the wheels as road conditions demand. The ALL-MODE 4x4i Dial, located just behind the gearshift, lets the driver choose full-time 2WD for maximum fuel economy, Auto mode to automatically monitor conditions and adjust the balance of power between front and rear wheels for best traction, or 4WD Lock mode for rough terrain and in varying weather when the confidence of fulltime 4WD is desired. The intuitive Auto mode senses slippery roads or rough terrain and automatically adjusts power to each wheel. Auto mode provides a 50/50 split for non-slip startups and varies power distribution between the front and rear axles for improved traction under various road conditions. In addition, standard hill start assist helps to limit roll-back, adding control when starting and driving away on a steep incline when the driver’s foot is removed from the brake pedal ( 4WD and 2WD models).

Enhanced Intelligent Key

Available on the SL and Platinum Pathfinder HEVs is an enhanced Intelligent Key that features a 2-driver memory to set seat, steering column and outside positions. If so equipped, customers can also preset and link their individual audio, navigation and climate control preferences to their Intelligent Key. Because individual Intelligent Keys can be linked to the unique preferences of two different drivers, each key can be synchronized with one of the two Automatic Drive Positioner memorized function settings to suit his or her preferences.

The following are just some of the settings customers can link to each Intelligent Key:

2-memory positions for: driver seat, steering column and outside mirrors position memory.

Audio control: radio station presets, bass, treble, fade and more. Note that volume level cannot be memorized and the volume will roll back to the last level adjusted by the audio volume control knob or steering wheel volume switches.

Climate control: temperature, fan speed and mode can be preset.

Navigation system: retains the driver’s last settings for map view, zoom level, guidance volume and more. Remember to let customers know that the navigation system’s address book is shared by both drivers, so it cannot be individually set.

Each Nissan dealership will be required to have at least one service technician trained as a Nissan Hybrid Specialist.