Nissan unveiled the new production version of the 2013 Pathfinder in Detroit today, a family hauler that sheds 500 pounds for better fuel economy compared with the outgoing model.

2013 Nissan Pathfinder Goes from SUV to Crossover

The Pathfinder shifts from being a body-on-frame SUV to being a unibody crossover to achieve most of its weight savings. Nissan says the result will be 30% improvement in gas mileage. The front-wheel-drive version can now achieve 20 miles a gallon in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Yet it still can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

All 2013 Pathfinders come equipped with an advanced 260-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 engine matched with a continuously variable transmission, instead of a plain ol’ automatic. Nissan says it will be the only vehicle in its class with selectable two- or four-wheel drive.

“While traditional SUV customers are looking for improved fuel economy, they still demand a vehicle that can do all the things they need, like carrying seven people, towing, and providing the sure-footedness in all conditions of a four-wheel drive,” says Al Castignetti, general manager of the Nissan division, in a statement.

The new Pathfinder will be built in Smyrna, Tenn., and goes on sale in the fall at Windsor Nissan. Pricing hasn’t been disclosed.

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