Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid 2014 Review

The Nissan Pathfinder brings comfort and modern conveniences in spades. And now, in hybrid form, it’s more efficient than ever. On size and specification alone, the big Pathie delivers a convincing value equation in the seven-seat SUV segment.

To say the Pathfinder has undergone a transformation is an understatement. It's a far cry from the boxy, pedestrian character it once was, boasting softened lines, refined finishes and the model's smallest engine ever.

But don’t let that put you off. The combination of a 2.5-litre supercharged four-cylinder petrol engine and 15kW torque-assist electric motor combines to offer 188kW and 330Nm – 2kW less and 5Nm more than its 3.5-litre V6 sibling (and a reduced towing capacity of 1650kg, down from 2700).

Power is supplied by a 144-volt lithium-ion battery, and with torque offered much earlier than in the V6, the Pathfinder has more than enough power to spin the wheels when you put your foot down.

Powered is delivered to the wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT) which continues to operate smoothly irrespective of drive mode. It's quieter than many CVTs we could mention too, and when asked to perform is prompt in response, building in tandem with the supercharged petrol engine to provide the Pathfinder to similar levels of performance to that of the V6.

Once on the go there’s no getting around the sheer size of the Pathfinder. Its proportions are ever present, particularly during brisk cornering where there’s considerable body roll. However, it delivers a very comfortable ride, even with seven passengers on board.

There is, however, a slight disconnect in the Pathfinder’s feedback to the driver. Like many hybrid vehicles the throttle controls vehicle, rather than engine speed, and with aural cues so few a steady eye on the speedo is necessary to avoid 'creeping' over the limit. The steering, too, is very light. It's great at carpark speeds, but is less than reassuring on winding country roads.

But for the most part there is little not to like. The Pathfinder's hybrid system selects EV mode of its own accord and works well to achieve a confident blend of power and economy. Nissan's official figures show the Pathfinder Hybrid uses around 15 per cent less than the V6 petrol (at 8.5L/100km), though on test we managed 9.3L/100km.

Eco credentials aside, the Pathfinder remains a pragmatic choice, and inside offers an unexpected softness and high degree of finesse. Once in the high-set passenger seat the Pathie's ergonomics are spot-on and oddment storage is well-match to the its family leanings. It's intuitive to operate, and provides common-sense controls that require little (if any) consultation of the owner's manual to operate – even Bluetooth set-up is a cinch.

The cabin's proportions are generous, and as we've noted before the Pathfinder is one of few seven-seaters actually capable of housing adults in the third row. The seats are configurable with a 60:40-split in the middle row and 50:50 at the back, adding to the Pathie's versatility.

The high-set driving position gives great forward visibility, but the story ends there. The stadium-style seats significantly restrict lateral and rearward visibility – the 360-degree camera providing a thankful aid to parking and tricky maneuvering.

Nissan's clever bird's eye camera is one of the many technology items offered as standard in the mid-grade Pathfinder ST-L. Tri-zone climate control (with ventilation outlets in all three rows), Bluetooth, sat-nav, cruise control, push-button start and electrically-adjustable and heated seats are all standard, while a premium BOSE audio package and 8.0-inch colour touchscreen are also included.

Like all Pathfinder variants, the Hybrid offers a five-star ANCAP safety rating. Safety equipment includes front, side and curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution and stability control. All seating positions have three-point belts with reminders.

Good kit, refined handling, considerable eco cachet and priced from $42,990, the Pathfinder Hybrid redefines its value proposition in the seven-seat SUV segment.