Revamped interior and an upgrade for trusted and durable off-roader

POLOKWANE – Times have surely changed since Nissan launched its first Patrol, the 4W60, 64 years ago, but one thing has not. And that is Nissan Patrol owners who swear by their choice of a durable off-roader.

It is in response to the feedback from this loyal and growing market of Patrol owners Nissan has introduced a range of extra creature comforts to their all-conquering Patrol Station Wagon 3.0 TD 4×4 GL, all without touching the go-anywhere mechanics that have made it an overland favourite.

The most visible change is the revamped interior, which now features full grain leather upholstery on all five seats.

These specifications bring the GL-model closer to the range-topping 4.8-litre GRX version of the Patrol Station Wagon.

The new in-car entertainment system on the Nissan Patrol 3.0TD GL and 4.8 GRX features a touch screen full colour navigation with USB and Bluetooth integration, making the daily commute as exciting as the overland expedition, while the GL now also has a two-zone climate control system as standard.

On the outside, the Patrol retains the hardy look that its customers love, complete with sloped front bumper with its impressive 37 degree approach angle and the front and rear solid axles, which make storming dunes and fording rivers almost child’s play.

Also retained is the bonnet-mounted air scoop that feeds a standard intercooler, the electrically operated chrome side mirrors and the dual side-opening rear doors. The full-sized spare wheel is mounted on the rear doors, which is a boon for anyone who has experienced a flat tyre in deep mud or soft sand.

Under the skin Nissan has wisely retained the popular and reliable three litre four cylinder common rail, direct injection turbo-diesel engine that delivers 118 kW at 3 600 rpm and 371 Nm of torque, which peaks as low as from 2 000 rpm.

The low-end grunt is ideal for technical off-road work and it gives the Patrol a maximum tow rating of 2,7 ton.

This engine has a proven track record and a class-leading fuel consumption figure of 8,1 litres per 100 km on the open road.

The engine delivers power to the rear wheels in 2WD mode and to all four in both low and high range 4WD mode.

True to its off-road status, the Nissan Patrol is equipped with heavy-duty springs, telescopic front and rear shocks for 240 mm suspension travel and solid front and rear axles.

The Patrol has a massive 135-litre fuel tank and vented brake discs in the front and rear.

Both versions of the Patrol Station Wagon have a rear lockable diff and automatic locking hubs with the option of a manual override.

The 3.0 TD Patrol has a five-speed manual gearbox with a high and low range transfer case.

The Nissan Patrol 3.0 TD GL 4×4 Station Wagon is available at a suggested retail price of R605 000 and service intervals are every 15 000 km.