Rugged bakkie the latest workhorse

THE new and updated Nissan Patrol Pickup is now available in South Africa, sporting a sharp new look with rugged overtones, a new diesel engine and upgraded features.

The Patrol name has been running strongly for over 60 years and the new Patrol Pickup builds on this heritage.

It is an authentic 4×4, which represents Nissan’s commitment to the large pickup segment in South Africa with a bakkie that expresses the brand’s ultimate “do-anything” attitude, especially in the roughest and toughest environments.

Available in single-cab configuration and with a diesel-powered 4×4 drivetrain, the new Nissan Patrol Pickup 3.0DTi 4×4 5-speed manual is powered by a turbocharged and intercooled new-age 16 valve diesel engine, which features common rail fuel injection for improved filtration, greater efficiency, enhanced durability and improved power output.

Producing 110kW at 3 600rpm and 371Nm of torque between 1 800 and 2 400rpm, drivability is exceptionally refined especially due to the low and widespread torque availability. Coupled to this, a class-leading towing capacity of 2 500kg emphasises the Patrol Pickup’s abilities as an all-rounder for work and leisure purposes.

The tried-and-trusted 4×4 system is a part-time setup, enabling the driver to select between three manually-activated drive modes depending on the conditions. With a standard rear differential lock, the new Patrol Pickup features high- and low-range four-wheel drive, with manual hub locks and a manual override function.

The new Patrol Pickup also features wider tyres for improved grip, as well as a widened rear track which better aligns the front and rear wheels for improved stability and control, especially in sand driving conditions off-road. The combination of a flexible rear leaf spring suspension design with longer stroke on the springs also results in improved ride quality and comfort.

Forming part of its significant upgrade, the interior features enhancements which match the exterior’s rugged and modern looks, while still subscribing to the principle of fuss-free simplification.

Appropriately uncluttered, the interior features air conditioning, power steering and a tilt-adjustable steering wheel. Other features include electric windows, intermittent windscreen wipers and warning buzzers for open doors and keys left in the ignition. Safety equipment includes two airbags, three-point safety belts and ABS with the ventilated front disc brakes.

Linked to low cost of ownership and adding even more value, the new Nissan Patrol Pickup comes with a three-year or 100 000km warranty and class-leading service intervals of 15 000 km.

Retail price including VAT: Patrol Pickup 3.0D 4×4 5MT – R476 900.