'Do-Everything' Nissan Pathfinder Drives Record November Sales for Automaker

HYANNIS, Mass., Dec. 10, 2012 — When Nissan redesigned its 2013 Pathfinder, it took a risk by using a completely new frame to make the vehicle a more city-friendly crossover. According to initial numbers, that chance appears to be paying off, as sales of the Nissan Pathfinder rose 250 percent year-over-year last month following the all-new model's debut. The vehicle's popularity helped Nissan reach record November sales, with the brand moving 84,300 units overall for an increase of 10 percent compared to the same month last year.

For the 2013 model year, the Nissan Pathfinder moved from its truck-like body-on-frame structure to a more car-like unibody design. With that change, the Pathfinder dropped 500 pounds and increased fuel economy to a best-in-class 26 mpg on the highway, a more than 30-percent improvement over the outgoing model. Though that added efficiency makes the Nissan crossover more appealing to urban drivers, a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds ensures that fans of the previous generation's capability will still be able to haul with the best of them.

"The new Pathfinder may be more at home on city streets now with its lighter weight and improved driving dynamics, but its versatility makes it just as well suited for ski trips and holiday travel," said Michael Ferraro, general manager of Balise Nissan of Cape Cod, a Hyannis, MA Nissan dealership. "It's an adept crossover that can handle the big jobs when needed, but it won't drain drivers' wallets at the gas pump in the meantime."

While its rapid sales indicate that the redesigned Pathfinder has started off on the right foot with buyers, it has also received critical acclaim. Popular Mechanics magazine included the Nissan Pathfinder among its 10 favorite vehicles in its Automotive Excellence Awards, labeling the model the "most versatile, do-everything car of 2013." Editors cited the Pathfinder's combination of fuel economy, towing capacity and passenger room for its win. They also approved of the crossover's smoother ride and easy access to the third row of seats.

Even with the 2013 Pathfinder's early success, Nissan continues to look for ways to improve the efficiency and versatility of its future crossovers. The automaker's compact seven-seat Hi-Cross Concept recently made its North American debut at the LA Auto Show, revealing a muscular exterior in bright Aurora Green paint. Powered by a 2.0-liter direct-injection gasoline engine, an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery, Nissan's concept offers hybrid efficiency while using the compact design of its drivetrain to create additional space inside the cabin.

Nissan made practical and efficient use of interior space to maximize the Hi-Cross Concept's 183.5-inch length, managing to fit three rows of seats in the compact crossover. A tall, flat roofline allows for plenty of headroom inside, while short front and rear overhangs ensure each row has ample legroom. To create more space for luggage or gear, the second and third rows can also fold down to create a large, level floor.

"The Hi-Cross Concept was designed from the ground up as a hybrid, so it maximizes space in a way that conventional crossovers turned hybrids just can't," added Ferraro. "By taking into account from the get-go where the battery pack and electric motor would live, Nissan's designers could focus on creating intelligent storage solutions for the everyday driver."

About Balise Nissan of Cape Cod:
Balise Nissan of Cape Cod is dedicated to providing Nissan customers on the Cape and South Shore with the most satisfying automotive experience possible at their brand-new, state-of-the-art Hyannis dealership. From the popular Altima sedan to the versatile Rogue crossover, Balise Nissan maintains an extensive inventory of vehicles so that buyers can find a trim and price that meets their needs. Their expert team of technicians also performs a broad range of detailed Nissan service. Visit their dealership at 322 Falmouth Rd. in Hyannis, Mass., call their team at 508-815-4010 or browse their inventory at www.balisenissancapecod.com. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BaliseNissanCapeCod.