The launch of the all-new fourth-generation Nissan Pathfinder at the 2014 Moscow Motor Show will also mark the first ever petrol-electric hybrid production in Russia.

Fourth-generation Nissan Pathfinder – first-ever hybrid production in Russia

The Pathfinder will debut alongside the new Russian-built Sentra sedan, the new Nissan Juke and new Nissan GT-R NISMO. The model is said to be equipped with a standard 3.5-litre petrol engine as well as a 2.5-litre hybrid engine. It will also be fitted with an intelligent 4×4 system and the latest generation X-tronic transmission.

Production of Pathfinder’s hybrid engine variant will make the St. Petersburg plant Russia’s first to produce a hybrid. The plant currently builds the Teana, Murano and X-Trail, while the Qashqai will be added in 2015. The addition of the Pathfinder will contribute to Nissan’s doubling of production there, to 100000 units annually.

Currently available in South Africa is the Nissan Pathfinder SE which is offered in either a manual or automatic gearbox, and is powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine producing 140 kW at 4 000 rpm and 450 Nm of torque at 2 000 rpm.

The model additionally features a towing capacity of 3000 kg and excellent off-road dimensions where short overhangs and a 232 mm ground clearance allow for good approach, departure and break-over angles.

Pricing starts at R450900, click here for more South African-specific details.