What Links the Nissan Patrol to Crocodiles? Both Are Modern-Day Dinosaurs.
This review is a refreshed take on an earlier edition, first published in June. Pricing and specifications have remained stable over the last six months, allowing us to provide you with the most current information available.
In the spirit of thoroughness, we have updated crucial pricing details and specifications. You can find the original review here.
WATCH: View Paul’s video review of the 2024 Nissan Patrol Ti-L.
Launched globally in 2010, the Y62-generation Nissan Patrol has undergone significant changes, including a substantial facelift introduced in 2019. While it stands among a dwindling number of long-lived models such as the Mitsubishi ASX, the Patrol has also announced a Y63 successor, though it won’t arrive in Australia for at least two more years.
Recently, the Nissan Patrol lineup received one of its most significant updates in years. Responding to demands for a more contemporary interior akin to the U.S.-spec Armada, Nissan Australia has engineered a locally tailored solution due to production constraints at its Yukuhashi plant.
As a result, this latest iteration boasts an updated infotainment system with essential features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Shedding the outdated design, the new centre stack introduces a fresher look, although much of the ruggedness and appeal of the Patrol remains unchanged.
While it retains its imposing stature, the Nissan Patrol can appear somewhat antiquated next to newer rivals like the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series. However, for many drivers, that old-school charm is a key selling point in a family-friendly SUV.
The recent test of the updated Patrol "Warrior" in Victoria’s mountainous high country served as a testament to this flagship SUV’s prowess. So, does it still hold its ground?
Pricing of the Nissan Patrol
Following a $3,000 price hike for the 2024 Model Year (MY24), Nissan has added another $1,000 increase for the Patrol:
| Model | Price (excludes on-road costs) |
|---|---|
| Nissan Patrol Ti | $88,900 (+$1,000) |
| Nissan Patrol Ti-L | $101,600 (+$1,000) |
| Nissan Patrol Warrior by Premcar | $105,160 (+$1,000) |
While the $100,000+ price tag may seem steep for a vehicle often referred to as a ‘living fossil’ (in relative terms), the top-tier Patrol Warrior is still priced lower than the more basic LandCruiser 300 Series GXL, which starts at $108,791.
For a comparative analysis of how the Nissan Patrol stands against its competition, refer to our detailed comparison tool.
Interior Features of the Nissan Patrol
The most notable upgrades for MY24 focus on the cabin. The revised centre stack and console have been redesigned to incorporate the new infotainment display and enhance storage options for your devices.
The new 10.1-inch touchscreen is a marked improvement over the previous model’s 8.0-inch display, now featuring higher resolution and more ergonomic placement. Other enhancements include a transition from a single USB-A outlet to a faster USB-C connection and the introduction of a 15-watt wireless smartphone charging pad.
With the new infotainment system comes DAB+ digital radio and an iGO Street Navigation system, which even includes a complimentary one-month subscription to Hema’s 4×4 navigation service for those off-road adventures. Wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is also now available.
The installation of this advanced infotainment system – a collaboration between Nissan and Melbourne’s Directed Technologies – occurs on Premcar assembly lines for the Warrior variant while Ti and Ti-L models receive theirs upon arrival at the port.
While my connection to the system using an iPhone 15 Pro Max was seamless, I can’t overlook that the display’s interface appears somewhat aftermarket, and the integration has come at the expense of the previous model’s surround-view camera system.
Despite these enhancements, the Patrol Warrior’s impressive length of 5269mm (up 94mm from the Ti) and a width of 2079mm (up 84mm) does make it a challenge to maneuver in tighter spaces.
The aesthetic upgrades in the Warrior model include high-gloss black trim and Alcantara accents, providing a youthful ambiance compared to the conventional Patrol Ti. Overall, the interior quality remains commendable, with leather upholstery and high-grade materials throughout.
However, some elements, like the instrument cluster, betray the vehicle’s age, retaining designs from a decade ago that lack modern digital features.
Let’s hope that the next generation aligns more closely with global standards to provide Australian consumers with a fully equipped model rather than a diluted version.
Spaciousness and Comfort
As expected from a vehicle of this size, second-row seating in the Patrol is generous, comfortably accommodating three average-sized adults. Amenities abound, including roof-mounted vents, dedicated fan controls, and various storage options.
Regrettably, the third row falls short regarding comfort and space, as the fixed position of the second-row seats limits legroom significantly. Taller passengers may find this section suitable only for young children.
Performance Specifications
Under the Patrol’s lengthy hood, there are no choices for downsizing or turbocharging. Keeping with tradition, the vehicle houses a potent V8 engine that delivers robust performance for a variety of driving conditions.
| Technical Specifications | Nissan Patrol Warrior by Premcar |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.6L V8 petrol |
| Transmission | 7-speed automatic |
| Power | 298kW @ 5800rpm |
| Torque | 560Nm @ 4000rpm |
| Drive type | 4WD with 4A mode |
| Fuel type | 95 RON gasoline |
| Fuel tank capacity | 140 litres |
| Claimed fuel economy | 14.4L/100km |
| Towing capacity | 750kg (unbraked); 3500kg (braked) |
| Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) | 3620kg (+120kg compared to Patrol Ti) |
| Ground clearance | 323mm (+50mm vs. Ti) |
Driving Experience
Our exploration of the new Patrol Warrior was predominantly conducted on off-road terrains near Mount Disappointment, accentuating the model’s strength despite no mechanical alterations since the last generation.
This was not merely an exercise in detours; it was a full showcase of capabilities engineered by Premcar. The robust build of the Patrol shone as we traversed challenging conditions following a rain-soaked day, revealing the SUV’s adeptness as it maneuvered through slippery slopes and muddy patches.
While its substantial weight—almost 2.9 tons—could easily become cumbersome, the 4WD system combined with the grunting V8 engine allowed for a fluid driving experience, accommodating various terrains without needing manual adjustments.
The Patrol Warrior, despite its size, proved formidable in off-road situations, encouraging the driver to embrace its brutish power with confidence. With its increased ground clearance and suspension upgrades, navigating through rugged paths was rewarding, albeit with a few minor scrapes on the running boards when approached undertakings became ambitious.
Value Proposition
Nissan has unveiled three distinct variants of the Patrol in Australia, catering to varying tastes and budgets.
Patrol Ti Standard Equipment:
- 8 seats
- 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- DAB+ digital radio
- iGO Street navigation
- Hema 4×4 Navigation (one-month subscription)
- Multiple USB ports
- Leather-accented upholstery
- Advanced safety features
Patrol Ti-L Enhancements:
- 7 seats
- Premium sound system
- Ventilated front seats
- Additional luxury features
Patrol Warrior by Premcar Additions:
- Enhanced exterior aesthetics
- Unique suspension and performance upgrades
Safety Ratings
The Nissan Patrol remains unrated by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), though it does include standard safety features such as adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and parking assistance.
Ownership and Running Costs
Nissan stands behind the Patrol with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty and roadside assistance, along with capped-price servicing options for budget-conscious owners.
Final Thoughts on the Nissan Patrol
As Australia confronts stricter emissions regulations, the current iteration of the Nissan Patrol may be on thin ice. Anticipated changes might include replacing the powerful V8 with a twin-turbo V6 in the next model, delivering better fuel economy but potentially sacrificing some of the visceral driving experience that enthusiasts cherish in the Patrol.
Despite looming changes, the affection Australians have for this vehicle—rooted in its rugged dependability, comfort, and distinct personality—appears unwavering. The numbers speak volumes, demonstrating a significant uptick in registrations this year.
And thus, this stalwart dinosaur has yet a robust journey ahead of it.
Interested in purchasing a Nissan Patrol? Connect with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here.
Explore the complete gallery of the Nissan Patrol.
Read more about the Nissan Patrol and its features here.
Source:www.carexpert.com.au
