The Nissan Patrol has long been the benchmark by which all-terrain vehicles are judged. With the latest 5.6L V8 powered model, currently available in Ghana, the Patrol has once again raised the bar and is likely to re-define the concept of the four-wheel drive by combining ferocious power with cutting-edge technology in a supremely luxurious package.
While maintaining its credo as a powerful and speedy SUV, the new Patrol comes packed with features that belie its exceptional fuel efficiency.
Under the bonnet is a 5.8L engine with continuous Valve Timing control which delivers seamless acceleration with 317 hp and 526 Nm of torque, providing you with the drive of your life when paired with 5-speed automatic transmission with manual mode.
In a world-first, the Patrol employs the advanced HBMC System with 4-wheel independent suspension. Working with the chassis and body frame, HBMC gives the vehicle superb stability on rugged and sandy terrain, while also delivering a comfortable ride in the city.
This is complemented by the intelligent 4WD package which ensures that from the cabin, one can’t tell between the smooth roads of the city and the rugged demands of off-road terrains.
The category-defining All-mode system features a variable 4×4 mode select switch, which allows you to effortlessly switch between sand, on-road and rock drive modes. The Patrol is remarkably capable in sand mode, enabling you to drive safely, quickly and skillfully, just like the professional rally drivers.
In the cabin itself, the unmistakably bold exterior design beckons you with its powerful and modern lines. Then, the cockpit’s well-appointed interior promises an invigorating atmosphere for driving.
The Nissan Patrol features a harmonious medley of leather, woodtone panel and chrome trims with fine-textured, soft leather seats fitted with power and memory functions.
The entertainment system consists of 7-inch WVGA monitors for second-row passengers, along with the front 7-inch screen, all of which provide LCD quality. These can be connected to a DVD and game player, and you have two sets of wireless headphones and a remote control. With its 2GB worth of hard drive capacity, the entertainment system can store the equivalent of about six or seven of your favourite CDs. Should this not be enough, you still have the option of connection the system to your iPod, USB flash drive or other compatible devices to enjoy your music over a Bose sound system that will make your car sound like a concert hall.
In another first, the Patrol features a ‘‘curtain vent’’ and Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control, which allows front and rear passengers to personally set the air conditioning to different levels. Seats are also climate controlled and the cabin is fitted with several storage slots in which you can store essentials as you move about, including a “cool box” accessible from both the first and second row seats to access up to six 600ml bottles – the largest capacity in its class.
With the Patrol’s intelligent key fob in your pocket, you can start the engine with the push of a button and lock or unlock the doors. It also memorizes the driver’s seat position. And for an added measure of safety, the engine immobilizer prevents anyone without the key from starting the car. For quick, easy access to your luggage, the rear opens and closes with the push of a button.
Safety has always been a hallmark of the Nissan Patrol and this model is no exception. The “Safety Shield” is a proactive approach to safety pioneered by Nissan based on their concept of building cars that protect people. This approach provides various measures to help the driver and passengers better avoid dangers in ways that are optimized to each of a wide range of circumstances that the vehicle may be in, from “risk has not yet appeared” to “post-crash.”
In the new Patrol the driver is aided by HID xenon headlamps to achieve optimum visibility in all weather conditions, Vehicle Dynamic Control that automatically prevents the Patrol from sliding sideways on slippery road surfaces when changing lanes or negotiating a curve, the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) which prevents skidding during emergency braking, an Electronic Brake force Distribution to optimize brake force according to payload, and Brake Assist that enhances full braking performance in emergency situations.
To make doubly sure, the Nissan Patrol comes with a six SRS airbag system, front seat belt pretensioners and load limiters, crash-sensitive door unlock, active head restraints and an automated hazard warning signal.