Nissan Pathfinder Concept previewed in teaser image

The new concept will provide an insight into the design direction of the next-generation Nissan Pathfinder, a model that is due internationally later in 2012, and sometime in 2013 for Australia.

The teaser image isn't all that revealing, but we can make the major contours. The wheel arches flow from front to back, while the door panels feature a single soft curve from top to bottom. The overall design seems much more aerodynamic and fluidic compared with the previous and current models.

Nissan is holding back on the finer details, but said in a statement the concept features "comfortable seating for seven and ample cargo room", adding that it "previews the next-gen production Pathfinder that is scheduled to go on sale next fall".

As for the engine options, reports suggest the concept borrows much of its make-up from the upcoming Infiniti JX. This could include Nissan adopting the 3.5-litre V6, producing around 200kW of power. A diesel variant is likely to join the production line-up further down the track as well.

Look out for more updates on the Pathfinder, as well as plenty of other vehicles and concepts on display at the Detroit show, in our extensive coverage, beginning January 9.