After only two years in the lineup, the hybrid version of the Nissan Pathfinder and its upscale twin, the Infiniti QX60, have silently motored off into history. Neither is returning for the 2016 model year.
Combining a supercharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 20-hp electric motor, the hybrid SUVs didn’t offer a huge increase in fuel economy compared with the standard 3.5-liter V-6 versions. The front-wheel-drive hybrids had an EPA combined rating of 26 mpg, 3 mpg better than the nonhybrid, while the all-wheel-drive hybrids, also at 26 mpg combined, beat the standard AWD model by 4 mpg.
In our test of an all-wheel-drive Pathfinder Hybrid, we did considerably worse, averaging only 19 mpg versus the 20 mpg we recorded in a long-term test of a Pathfinder V-6. We concluded, “it’s hard to justify the added mass and cost.” Seems that most Pathfinder shoppers agreed.
It’s not known whether Infiniti will continue with its Q50 and Q70 hybrids—yes, they do sell those—or whether they will exit, as well. For hybrid-loving SUV buyers, Nissan may soon have a new alternative in the form of a Rogue hybrid—its platform-mate, the European-market X-Trail, is offered with one. We’ll have to wait and see whether it comes here.
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