Nissan has announced plans to continue selling its aging Pathfinder SUV alongside a new, body-on-frame version sharing the same name. The automaker will offer an updated unibody Pathfinder model that will retain its on-road focus and be updated in 2028 or 2029. This decision is likely aimed at catering to different customer preferences without cannibalizing sales of each other.
The current Pathfinder generation, which debuted in 2022, has already been on the market for several years, making the unibody model potentially seven years old by the time the body-on-frame version arrives. To avoid this situation, Nissan will sell both models concurrently for as long as it makes sense to do so.
Pricing for the unibody Pathfinder model is expected to target entry-level buyers, with the more rugged body-on-frame model carrying a more premium price tag. This pricing strategy aims to differentiate between the two models and cater to different customer segments.
Nissan's decision to offer both a unibody and body-on-frame version of the Pathfinder has sparked interest among automotive enthusiasts. The company's willingness to adapt its product lineup in response to changing consumer trends is a testament to its commitment to staying competitive in the market.
The report also suggests that Nissan will use powertrain options to differentiate between the two versions. The unibody Pathfinder will likely be powered solely by an internal-combustion engine, while the body-on-frame model will launch with a combustion-only powertrain and add a hybrid option later on.
It's possible that Nissan differentiates between the two models with seating options as well. The unibody Pathfinder offers a kid-sized third row, but it may be dropped in favor of a larger cargo area in the off-road-focused body-on-frame model.
The report also mentions that the body-on-frame Pathfinder may carry the Pro4X badge, indicating its focus on off-roading. This could appeal to customers who prioritize off-road capability and towing capacity.
Nissan's decision to assemble all five planned vehicles on the new body-on-frame platform at its factory in Canton, Mississippi, suggests a commitment to domestic manufacturing and reducing reliance on imports.
Overall, Nissan's plan to offer both a unibody and body-on-frame version of the Pathfinder demonstrates its willingness to adapt to changing customer preferences and stay competitive in the market.
