Dealers like John Howard Nissan wait all year for big auto shows like the one that just wrapped up in Detroit - the North American International Auto Show. We were particularly excited this year, as Nissan promised a whole new Pathfinder - with improved fuel economy, a redesigned body, and a slew of new features. And we're here to tell you: they did not disappoint.

Since the original Pathfinder hit the market back in 1986, Nissan has sold 1.2 million units. It's remained a popular choice for so many drivers for so long - we simply can't wait to share the ways Nissan has improved it. The biggest change? Nissan moved the seven-passenger SUV from its traditional truck platform to a lighter unibody platform.

Why? Well, according to officials at Nissan, the unibody chassis gave designers more flexibility with interior packages, and allowed them to sculpt the exterior into a more aerodynamic shape. Along with the lightened, sculpted body, the Pathfinder gets a boost in fuel economy with help from its 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). All told, Nissan is saying this should improve the fuel economy by 25 percent.

You'll also find the new Pathfinder to have a more versatile and comfortable interior. Nissan has promised a very roomy three-row set up with plenty of cargo space, a panoramic dual-panel moonroof, pushbutton start, a large touchscreen display up front, as well as headrest-mounted entertainment displays for second row passengers. This is really all we know so far, as the production model isn't set to make its debut until the New York Auto Show in a few months.

We'll have more info soon, though! The 2013 Pathfinder is set to roll into dealerships later this year, so be sure to stay tuned with John Howard Nissan to learn more about it. In the meantime, we invite you to stop in and see us at 1730 Mileground Morgantown, WV 26505. A member of our team is always happy to give you a tour of the entire new Nissan lineup.

Source: ¹http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-13746_7-57345174-48/nissan-promises-dramatic-pathfinder-concept-for-detroit/