The increase in size, excepting its height that has much to do with the concept's meaty wheel and tire package and hoisted springs and shocks, follows the current bigger is better sport utility trend, that has seen traditional models such as the 4Runner grow in interior space to match a recent onslaught of car-based SUV competitors.
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| The Dunehawk, or Pathfinder replacement, will probably receive a massaged 3.5-L V6, with something near 280-hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, as well as a robust V8. (Photo: Nissan) |
No doubt when Nissan replaces the midsize Pathfinder it will receive a massaged 3.5-L V6, with something near 280-hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, as well as a robust V8. It would make sense for the Japanese brand to opt for the fuel efficiency and optimized packaging of a smaller V8 than its new 300-hp, DOHC, 32-valve 5.6-liter engine with 375 lb-ft of available torque, that is finding its way into the soon to be released Titan and Pathfinder Armada, but other than the Infiniti Q45 and M45's sophisticated 340-hp, 4.5-litre 32-valve, DOHC engine with 333 lb-ft of torque, no mention of a smaller V8 has been made.
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| With its 4x4 ready body-on-ladder-frame construction, the Dunehawk offers the rugged rigidity necessary for tackling serious off-road terrain. (Photo: Nissan) |
Another indication that the Dunehawk may indeed be the forerunner (sorry for the pun) to the next-gen midsize Pathfinder is its 4x4 ready body-on-ladder-frame construction. This configuration optimizes payload and towing capacities, while offering the rugged rigidity necessary for tackling serious off-road terrain.
But just because it can do the dirty with the best of them, doesn't mean the Dunehawk isn't refined. While a sophisticated piece of contemporary art on the outside its interior is also worthy of a showing at the Tate Liverpool gallery. No shortage of industrially designed metallic surfaces blends harmoniously with warm leathers in light and dark earth tones.
The four dial gauge package is a stunning display of classic modernity, sitting atop a slightly shrouded dash area rather than the more common practice of burying a flat black plastic façade behind a clear cover within a deeply recessed pocket. The center stack is jewel-like as well, more akin to a top-tier audio system than the ancillary controls of a vehicle.