2013 Nissan Pathfinder Awarded by WardsAuto for Its Inviting Interior

Redesigned Crossover SUV Makes Publication's 10 Best Interiors List

Raynham, 04/25/2013 / SubmitMyPR /

It is during the monotony of the daily commute that drivers start to really notice the conveniences or annoyances of their car's interior, so WardsAuto editors recently drove several new models to the office to uncover the cabins that stand above the rest. After all was said and done, the redesigned 2013 Nissan Pathfinder earned a spot on the annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list, with editors citing the crossover SUV's combination of comfort and functionality for driver and passengers alike.

To determine its 10 Best Interiors list, WardsAuto ranked vehicles with new or significantly upgraded interiors in several categories, including materials, fit-and-finish, ergonomics, overall design, comfort, value and safety. Technology was also considered, with each model's dash interface judged in terms of user-friendliness and connectivity with mobile devices. After evaluating the Pathfinder, editors described the crossover as "warm, inviting, spacious and ready for anything."

"The new Pathfinder not only has the room to fit seven passengers in comfort, but the interior is designed to make your actions in the vehicle easier, whether it's the simple access to the third row, or an available DVD entertainment system that will keep the kids occupied," said Jason Ferreira, general sales manager of Mastria Nissan, a Massachusetts Nissan dealership in Raynham. "Not to mention, when it comes time to haul equipment or furniture for home improvement, the Pathfinder opens up to nearly 80 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded, so you won't have to borrow a friend's pickup truck."

The transformative design of the new Pathfinder starts with Nissan's decision to switch from a truck-based body-on-frame platform to a modern unibody platform. That move is reflected on the inside, which is loaded with features usually found in large sedans. Plush Berber carpet floor mats and a Dual Panorama Moonroof create a more serene cabin, while Nissan’s EZ Flex Seating System allows the second row to slide both backward and forward by up to five and a half inches, making it easy for passengers to get to the third row.

A hybrid model will join the new Pathfinder lineup late this summer for the 2014 model year. With a manufacturer-estimated 26-mpg rating in combined driving, the 2014 Pathfinder Hybrid will be 24 percent more efficient than the standard model and will offer a longer highway range of 526 miles. Despite that increased efficiency, the hybrid model will feature similar performance and the same space and standard features compared to its gas-only sibling.

"The Pathfinder's new lightweight unibody frame has already helped it significantly improve fuel economy over its predecessor, and the hybrid model will take things even further," added Ferreira. "Regardless of the model that buyers choose, they won't be lacking in any of the all-conditions capability that the Pathfinder has earned a reputation for over the years."

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 be reached by phone at 888-820-9028 or found online at www.mastrianissan.com and www.facebook.com/MastriaNissan.