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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 2013 |

Nissan has unveiled the 2014 Pathfinder Hybrid at the New York Auto Show, powered by a 2.5-liter supercharged four-cylinder gasoline engine and an electric motor paired with a lithium-ion battery.

The hybrid’s 2.5-liter supercharged unit and the 15-kW (20-hp) electric motor together develop 250 horsepower and 243 lb-ft (329 Nm) of torque, nearly matching the 3.5-liter V6’s 260 hp and 240 lb-ft (325 Nm).

The hybrid system uses a Nissan Intelligent Dual Clutch System that manages power from both the electric motor and the gas engine. Both are linked to a next-generation Xtronic CVT gearbox. Batteries are stored under the 3rd row seat, preserving Pathfinder’s 2nd row sliding functionality and access to the 3rd row.

Combined fuel economy is estimated at 26 mpg (9 liters/100 km), which is 24 percent better than on the standard Pathfinder. Estimated city fuel economy is 25 mpg (9.4 lt/100 km), while highway mileage is estimated at 27 mpg (8.7 lt/100 km). Thanks to the 19.5-gallon (74-liter) fuel tank, the Pathfinder Hybrid has an estimated driving range of more than 526 miles (846 km).

The 2014 Pathfinder Hybrid is available either as front-wheel drive or with Nissan's ALL-MODE 4x4-i system, which has selectable 2WD, Auto and 4WD Lock modes. The SUV is also equipped with a standard Hill Start Assist system on both 2WD and 4WD models.

On the outside, the hybrid can be recognized by its LED taillights and specific badges. In the interior, the Pathfinder Hybrid benefits from the same features and space as the gasoline model, except specific readings in the Advanced Drive-Assist Display located in the center of the driver's instrument cluster, which show power flow from the electric motor and gas engine, along with power regeneration back into the battery.

The 2014 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid will launch in the States in late summer 2013 and will be available in three trim levels – SV, SL and Platinum. The hybrid SUV is expected to cost around $3,000 more than Pathfinder 3.5-liter V6 model that starts from $28,650.

By Dan Mihalascu

PHOTO GALLERY

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THURSDAY, APRIL 25, 2013 |

Adding to the many, many choices that owners of the fifth generation Ford Mustang have to improve and/or individualize the looks of their cars, Shelby Performance Parts (SPP) of Shelby American, is now offering its wide body kit for the 2005-2009 Ford Mustang and Shelby Mustang models. Customers can buy the kit and have it installed by a local shop of their choice.Shelby has developed two versions of the kit, a complete package that includes the rear quarter panels that add 6 inches of fender to house up to 13 inch rear wheels (345 wide), as well as the front quarter panels that allow for 10 inch front wheels, and the rear-only package. Both come with a Shelby Billet Fuel Door, installation instructions, special tools and the necessary hardware for installation.
Even though in theory, one could attempt to fit the kit it on his/her own, Shelby says, "it requires substantial body and paint work and is recommended to be assembled by a professional body shop."
“Built using lightweight fiberglass components and extraordinary craftsmanship, the Shelby Wide Body Kit is built to OEM-quality fit and finish, and seamlessly integrates into the already-menacing Mustang body lines,” said Shelby Performance Parts Vice President Jer Gervasi. “So I’d recommend warning the neighbors. This thing is scary.”
As for pricing for the unpainted parts, the rear-only package for 2005-2009 Mustangs and Shelbys starts at $3,399, while the four-quarter panel kit goes for $5,999, excluding installation, of course. Shelby said that it is preparing a similar package for the newer 2010-2014 Ford and Shelby Mustangs, which will be released this summer.

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