The British Motor Show has announced that it will introduce a new display category for this year’s event. The “Mum and Dad’s Cars” exhibit will seek to highlight mundane cars from the past alongside the flamboyant supercars of today.
The cars in the display will be selected based not on their market value but rather on their unmatchable sentimental value as a nod to the regular cars that, for many petrolheads, started it all.
“This is the only car show where you’ll find a Nissan Bluebird rubbing shoulders with a brand new McLaren,” said The British Motor Show CEO, Andy Entwistle. “But it’s the cars our mums and dads owned that were the catalyst for most of us developing a love of cars, and The British Motor Show is all about the love of cars.”
If you’ll allow me a bit of a tangent, one of my favorite TV chefs growing up, Pasquale Carpino, used to always say that “mama is the best chef in the world.” What I liked best about it was that it was something that he said sincerely, a nod to the great power early experiences have over us to create interests and define taste.
Similarly, the car that feels the most like home to me is the 1998 Ford Contour (or Mondeo, depending on your location) that I learned to drive on. It was the first car I can remember my dad owning that wasn’t a wagon and he deliberately chose the V6 with the 5-speed manual transmission. To me, it was the best car in the world.
At the risk of turning this into a lowkey QOTD, I invite you to sound off in the comments with the car from your past that fills you with the most sentiment.
People in the UK who would like to turn that QOTD into a real-life conversation can head to the British Motor Show running from August 19 to 22 at Farnborough International, southwest of London. The show will also be the first major event in the UK to go on with no COVID restrictions – but we’d advise visitors to be extra careful anyway.
A stock Nissan 240SX is a rare thing indeed. Once it was discovered that they made great drift cars, they got snatched up and cut up. But if you can find one, you’ll see why they’re so sought after.
For a car that launched in the late ’80s, it was well ahead of its time. Thanks to its McPherson strut front and multilink rear suspension, Radventures’ host Ryan Symancek says that it was the era’s equivalent of a Subaru BRZ.
That might be what made it such a target for drifters. Everything that made it a predictable car on the race track, made it a drift missile as well.
The bone stock, hubcapped 240SX that Symancek drives in this video can drift happily on a rainy track even despite its open differential. With a little more weight over the front than the back, the rear wheels step out readily and the nose can easily be directed.
Despite all that, there are certainly still some details that place the car firmly in the ’90s. The engine, for Americans anyway, is a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated inline-four that makes a distinctly old school 140 hp (or 155 hp in later models).
A tape deck and a dearth of features mean that you won’t confuse the 240SX’s interior for a modern car, either. But with well-bolstered seats and all the controls you’ll ever need to enjoy yourself on a track, the 240SX has earned its reputation as a very enjoyable drift car.
The two slowest-selling new vehicles in the United States are both Mitsubishis, a new study has found.
During a recent analysis of 4.4 million new and used vehicles sold throughout the United States in the period from March through June 2020, it was discovered that the Mitsubishi Outlander and Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross are the slowest-selling new vehicles in the country. On average, it takes 197.7 days for an Outlander and 187.7 days for an Eclipse Cross to sell.
It is hardly a surprise that the Mitsubishi Outlander is so difficult to shift as it has been in production in third-generation guise, with minimal changes, since 2014 and there are many newer and more modern alternatives on the market.
Speaking about it, iSeeCars chief executive Phong Ly said: “The Mitsubishi Outlander compact SUV saw a 76 percent decrease in sales in the second quarter of 2020 compared to 2019, which shows that there isn’t high demand for the vehicle, despite its affordability and unique features like a third-row seat.”
It is somewhat of a surprise to see the Eclipse Cross so high up on the list, though, as it is still relatively new. However, like other Mitsubishi models, it is extremely basic and clearly failing to cash-in on demand for SUVs and crossovers in the United States.
The third slowest-selling new vehicle is the Buick Encore with an average sale time of 170 days. It was followed by the Nissan Frontier (158.3 days), Chevrolet Impala (153.1 days), Nissan Altima (151.9 days), Nissan Armada (151.2 days), Cadillac Escalade ESV (151.1 days), Range Rover Velar (150.4 days), and the Infiniti QX60 (149.9 days.)
It sure is not good for car manufacturers to have their new vehicles sitting around for so long. On the flip side, shoppers may find some good savings with such vehicles as dealerships should be eager to get them off their lots.
Earlier this week, an individual with knowledge of Nissan’s financial strategy claimed the Japanese automaker intends on cutting about 300 billion yen ($2.8 billion) in annual fixed costs and book restructuring charges. As part of this, Nissan will reportedly phase out the Datsun brand.
Automotive editor at data and analytics company GlobalData, David Leggett, says the revived Datsun brand has had mixed results and should be axed given Nissan’s ongoing financial woes.
“The revived Datsun brand was conceived in 2013 as a specialist provider of small, cheap models for low-income countries such as India, Indonesia and Russia,” Leggett said. “It has had mixed results, with the brand struggling against established competitors in some markets while its low volumes, low-cost price positioning and slim margins kept profitability elusive.” Leggett added that Nissan needs to focus on areas of its business that deliver higher profit margins.
“As Nissan reviews its global business and manufacturing footprint, it is becoming clearer that it needs to concentrate on selling higher margin products, such as electrified vehicles where it has a competitive advantage. Moreover, Nissan should avoid chasing market share – which was a primary driver of strategy in the past – to the long-term detriment of profitability,” he said. “To that end, the Datsun brand – and its additional costs – should be axed. Datsun is a legacy of excessive volume ambitions which the company never came close to fulfilling.”
The cost-cutting plans still need to be reviewed by Nissan’s board of directors. The automaker’s shares have plunged more than 40 per cent this year.
The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder continues as an exceptional way for families to turn up the adventure, around town or off-road. It has a unique combination of rugged design, powerful performance and seven-passenger comfort and utility.
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Adding to Pathfinder’s long list of standard and available innovative features and advanced technologies is the special Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition, available on SV and SL grades, in 2WD and 4WD configurations.
The special value option package offers unique exterior and interior treatments that emphasize the rugged Nissan Pathfinder heritage. Two additional Rock Creek equipment packages and a choice of seven available exterior colors allow buyers to customize their Pathfinder to their precise tastes.
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The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder is refreshed this year after many years of lagging sales.
The Rock Creek Edition name was chosen to connect the vehicle to Pathfinder’s family outdoor adventure-minded target customers. The Rock Creek Edition name also connects to Pathfinder’s proud rugged heritage.
Nissan Pathfinder includes Rock Creek Edition
Key differences between the Rock Creek Edition and standard 2020 Nissan Pathfinder models include unique dark 18-inch wheels with unique 255/60R18 all-season tires, black mesh grille, black roof rails, black door handles and outside rearview mirrors, black front and rear fascia accents and license plate finisher, black molded overfenders, and black model, grade and 4WD badges (if so equipped) and unique badging on the front doors.
Interior changes include unique Rock Creek Edition two-tone seating surfaces and badging, high contrast stitching the on seats, door, console lid and steering wheel and premium metallic interior trim.
Every 2020 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition also features a standard trailer tow hitch and harness and splash guards. Both 4WD and 2WD Pathfinder models feature best-in-class 6,000-pound towing capability1.
Besides, the SV Rock Creek Edition Technology Package includes NissanConnect with Navigation and Services, SiriusXM Traffic, NissanConnect Services powered by SiriusXM2 (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), heated cloth front seats, heated steering wheel and heated outside rearview mirrors. The SL Rock Creek Edition Premium Package adds a Bose 3 13-speaker Premium Audio System and Power Panorama Moonroof.
2020 Nissan Pathfinder: V-Motion Grille
The 2020 Nisssan Pathfinder continues to embrace its signature design elements such as the “V-Motion” grille and boomerang-shaped headlights with LED daytime running lights. LED headlights are standard on the Pathfinder SL grade. Other exterior elements include an aggressive hood, front bumper, and available fog lights. The outside rearview mirrors include standard integrated turn signals.
Besides, aerodynamic optimization efforts include the grille design with enhanced cooling performance (negating the need for an active grille shutter) and a front chin spoiler design that directs air downward without compromising the approach angle for off-road driving. These details help optimize airflow around and below the Pathfinder exterior, which has a coefficient of drag of 0.335.
The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder SL and Platinum grades feature a Motion-Activated liftgate with liftgate position memory. A simple wave of the foot under the center of the liftgate activates the power opening function.
Other exterior details include recessed front windshield wipers, roof rails, chrome door handles and privacy glass. An available Dual Panorama Moonroof is standard on the Platinum grade. It includes a sliding opening front panel and fixed rear glass panel, which extends over the 2nd and 3rd rows.
Inside, the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder offers an array of advanced information technology. The standard Advanced Drive-Assist Display (ADAD), located in the center of the instrument display between the tachometer and speedometer, features a range of infotainment and driver assistance displays. Voice recognition is enhanced with an HD microphone.
2020 Nissan Pathfinder: 7-Passenger Seating
The Pathfinder’s 3-row/7-passenger interior combines comfortable seating with the cargo capacity that families need every day. It offers the benefits of a mid-size crossover with the comfort of a larger SUV, including a flat floor for enhanced interior packaging flexibility and ample space.
Every 2020 Nissan Pathfinder interior is anchored by Nissan’s innovative EZ Flex Seating System with LATCH AND GLIDE, a 2nd-row tilt and glide seat that allows easy 3rd-row access with a child safety seat remaining securely in place (on the passenger curbside).
A wide range of seating and cargo-carrying combinations are available with the 2nd row 60/40-split seat with manual slide/recline/fold flat and 3rd row 50/50-split seat with manual recline/flat fold. The cloth seat fabric is standard for S and SV grades, while leather-appointed seating is standard on SL and Platinum models. And, as needed by today’s drivers, six USB ports are standard – two USB type-C, four USB Type-A ports.
The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder has a quiet, comfortable interior that includes a wide range of available features, including two rows of rich leather-appointed seating surfaces, heated and cooled front seats, heated 2nd-row seats, heated steering wheel, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, Nissan Intelligent Key, Remote Engine Start5, multiple user memory settings and an advanced Bose Audio System with 13 speakers.
Pathfinder also offers available Intelligent Around View Monitor (I-AVM). Other available technology includes Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System and iPod integration. The Mobile Entertainment system includes 2nd-row head restraint-mounted DVD display screens. The 8-inch QHD rear displays include auto-brightness control and USB and HDMI rear source inputs. The rear display can be easily controlled from the front with a user-friendly display.
2020 Nissan Pathfinder: Optimized RPM
All 2020 Nissan Pathfinder models are equipped with Nissan’s advanced Xtronic transmission. The Xtronic transmission includes D-Step Logic Control, which simulates shifts, giving a more natural acceleration feeling. The advanced Xtronic transmission design, with standard oil cooler, helps keep engine rpm optimized while towing without the typical “hunting for a gear” feel.
Pathfinder fuel economy is 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined for 2WD models; 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined (21 mpg Platinum) for 4WD models.
As in previous years, the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder also features selectable 2WD, Auto or 4WD Lock modes from the available Intelligent 4×4 (I-4×4) 4WD system. The system lets the driver choose full-time 2WD for maximum fuel economy, Auto mode to automatically monitor conditions and adjust the balance of power between the front and rear wheels for best traction, or 4WD Lock mode when full-time 4WD is desired.
Besides, standard Hill Start Assist helps prevent loss of control when starting and driving away on a steep incline (both 4WD and 2WD models), while standard Hill Descent Control (4WD only) helps by adjusting speed and brake pressure when traveling slowly down steep, rough terrain grades.
Standard maximum towing capacity is a best-in-class 6,000 pounds, giving owners the ability to tow two-axle recreational trailers, whether for watercraft, flatbeds or campers.
Pathfinder’s 4-wheel independent suspension contributes to the driving dynamics and refined ride. Rebound springs are added to the front struts to help assist with roll balance and body control. The result is the Pathfinder remains flat while cornering and road vibrations are well controlled, especially on rough roads and during off-road driving. Besides, a hydraulic electric steering system provides solid cornering feedback and feel.
2020 Nissan Pathfinder: Many Standard Features
Pathfinder’s advanced driver assistance technology, in addition to standard Automatic Emergency Braking, includes available Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC), Intelligent Around View® Monitor (I-AVM), Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA).
Standard safety and security features include Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (includes dual-stage front supplemental airbags with seat belt sensors and an occupant classification sensor), 3-point front seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, supplemental front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, roof-mounted supplemental curtain airbags with rollover sensor for side-impact and rollover head protection for outboard passengers in all three rows, 3-point seat belts for rear seat occupants, including 2nd-row center position, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) – 2nd-row outboard seating positions only, child safety rear door locks, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS).
The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder comes in four well-equipped models, starting with the Pathfinder S with 284-horsepower 3.5-liter V6, Xtronic transmission and available Intelligent 4×4 (I-4×4) 4WD system. Standard features include Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Rear Door Alert (RDA)6, NissanConnect with 8.0-inch color display, HD Radio, SiriusXM Satellite Radio2, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, EZ Flex Seating System with LATCH AND GLIDE, Tri-Zone Automatic Temperature Control, Push Button Start, six USB ports, RearView Monitor, Rear Sonar and Advanced Drive-Assist Display (ADAD).
The 2020 Nissan Pathfinder SV models add a range of features including Nissan Intelligent Key, 8-way power driver’s seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift lever, fog lights, auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink Universal Transceiver, Remote Engine Start5, Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC), Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA).
Pathfinder SL models include NissanConnect with Navigation and Services2, NissanConnect Services powered by SiriusXM2, leather-appointed heated 1st and 2nd-row seats, 4-way power front passenger’s seat, driver’s seat 2-way power lumbar support, heated steering wheel, LED headlights, Motion-Activated power liftgate with liftgate position memory and Intelligent Around View Monitor (I-AVM) among other features.
Pathfinder Platinum models offer 20-inch machined aluminum-alloy wheels, 235/55R20 tires, Bose 13-speaker premium audio system, cooled front seats, woodgrain finishers, Dual Panorama Moonroof, Trailer Tow Package and more.
Along with the Rock Creek Edition, SV Rock Creek Edition Technology Package and SL Rock Creek Edition Premium Package, the Nissan Mobile Entertainment Package adds the dual 8.0-inch headrest DVD/Family Entertainment System with rear seat wireless headphones, wireless remote control, rear headphone jacks with volume control, USB port and HDMI jack. It is available on the Platinum grade.
