Nissan Pathfinder, Infiniti QX60 Hybrid Models Axed

Jason Siu
by Jason Siu

Nissan has axed two of its hybrid SUV models.

The 2016 Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 models won’t have hybrid variants, disappearing after just one year on the market. Nissan confirmed the news on its website with a splash image saying that the “Pathfinder Hybrid is no longer available” pointing customers to the regular gasoline Pathfinder and the Leaf for those looking for ultra-efficiency. The hybrid models were powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder paired to a 20-hp electric motor and in front-wheel drive form, returned an EPA-estimated 26-mpg combined, marking just a 3-mpg improvement over the non-hybrid model. All-wheel drive hybrid models also got 26-mpg combined, besting the standard one by 4 mpg.

SEE ALSO: 2014 Infiniti QX60 Hybrid Review

There’s a chance that Nissan plans on filling the void, albeit indirectly, with a Rogue hybrid offering, which is currently sold in Europe under the X-Trail nameplate. The company is also working on its next-generation battery technology with its Leaf, claiming that a 250-mile range isn’t out of reach. With improvements to its EVs, Nissan could be waiting on a better hybrid system that would give its SUV models more of an advantage compared to their gasoline counterparts when it comes to fuel economy.

Discuss this story at our Nissan Pathfinder Forum

Jason Siu
Jason Siu

Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.

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