GLOSSY BLACK EXTERIOR DETAILING UPS SPORT ELEMENT IN REDESIGNED SUV

The recently redesigned 2017 Pathfinder is striking a chord with fans of the iconic SUV and newcomers alike, which is all the more reason for Nissan Canada to add yet more excitement by creating a new sportier trim. The all-new Platinum Midnight Edition removes some of the bright silver and chrome exterior trim and replaces it with glossy black detailing, resulting in a standout design. Included are black mirror caps, a black rooftop spoiler, unique 20-inch black alloys, a chromed rear bumper protector, plus Canada-exclusive badges on the fenders and tailgate, while the cabin gets illuminated kick plates and LED lighting elements.

THREE DECADES OF PATHFINDER WARRANTS A STYLISH SPECIAL EDITION

The Platinum Midnight Edition celebrates 30 years of Pathfinder availability in Canada, making the popular SUV one of the most enduring sport utility vehicles on today's market.The Nissan Pathfinder has a storied heritage as one of the modern pioneers in the SUV segment, with more than 30 years in Canada, yet we are always looking forward - staying true to the Pathfinder name," said Tomoyuki Matsumoto, Senior Chief Marketing Manager at Nissan Canada Inc. The special Midnight Edition enhances a mid-size SUV that's already been thoroughly updated for 2017, with a redesigned V-motion grille, revised multifaceted headlamp clusters with LED DRLs and optional full-LED hardware, a reshaped front bumper and lower fascia, new side mirror caps with integrated LED turn signals, updated alloy wheels, new mostly red-lensed LED taillights, a modified rear bumper featuring a chromed reverse V garnish, and additional changes to modernize the look.

LATEST 2017 PATHFINDER ALREADY A REDESIGNED MODEL

The Platinum Midnight Edition gets all of the interior updates already standard in regular Platinum trim, including satin-finish metallic trim and chrome accents, new textured "open-pore" woodgrain inlays, an electroluminescent primary gauge cluster, a high-resolution colour multi-information display, a one-inch larger 8.0-inch NissanConnect infotainment touchscreen with new graphics and features like mobile apps, voice recognition, and navigation, plus a 13-speaker Bose audio system with satellite radio, heatable and cooled front seats, leather door inserts and more, while notable features pulled up from lesser trims, including the $32,498 base S model, $38,178 SV, and $41,478 SL, include all-wheel drive, fog lamps, roof rails, remote start, proximity-sensing access, pushbutton ignition, auto high beams, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, auto tilt-down side mirrors, rear parking sensors, powered front seats, perforated leather upholstery, blindspot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and much more.

MORE POWERFUL YET SAFER THAN EVER

Additional improvements made to the 2017 Pathfinder include a stronger 3.5-litre V6 engine with direct-injection, now capable of 24 additional horsepower and 19 more lb-ft of torque for 284 of the former and 259 of the latter, plus 1,000 pounds of additional towing capacity at 6,000 lbs (when properly equipped), a new gesture activated power liftgate, updated vehicle connected services, and adaptive cruise control, while new active safety features that come with Platinum and Midnight Edition trims include an Around View monitor with Moving Object Detection and Forward Emergency Braking, which helped the Pathfinder earn a 2017 IIHS Top Safety Pick. Additionally, all Pathfinder trims are good for 5 Stars from the NHTSA. The new Midnight Edition is available in four colour combinations including Caspian Blue, Gun Metallic, Magnetic Black, and Pearl White, while all receive a Charcoal black leather-appointed cabin.

"Four-wheel drive; off-road proficiency; towing capability and an athletic appearance. Throughout 30 years, these are the mainstays of the Pathfinder nameplate and remain key requirements for the adventure-inspired customer in this segment today," added Matsumoto. "This special edition combines a more aggressive look, taking the popular Platinum grade level to an even higher level with stylish appointments to make it a Canadian enthusiasts' favourite. Best of all, the new Midnight Edition costs no more than the regular Platinum at just $48,478 plus freight and dealer fees. The sportier looking model goes on sale across Canada in March, "with limited production units" says Nissan.

Story credits: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press

Photo credits: Nissan

Copyright: Canadian Auto Press Inc.