Nissan Patrol V8
Amidst the realm of cult SUVs, the Nissan Patrol reigns supreme, commanding admiration for its exceptional smoothness on the road, akin to gliding over a billiard table, and its powerful V8 engine.
Our recent expedition led us to MyRide Nissan Paarl, where we had the opportunity to experience the prowess of the 5.6 V8 LE 4WD 7AT model, unravelling the secrets that make it a cherished luxury off-roader.
The Nissan V8 Patrol is Aesthetically Smooth and Muscular
Let’s begin by exploring the visual attributes of the Nissan Patrol. The first striking feature is its massive front end adorned with a swathe of chrome, accompanied by Xenon headlights to illuminate the road ahead. Notably, the Nissan badge on the grille is one of the largest seen on any Nissan vehicle.
Moving on to the technological aspects, the Nissan Patrol proudly displays several advanced features. Integrated cameras and parking sensors tastefully interrupt the seamless blend of chrome and the elegant white exterior hue, adding functionality and style to the design.
A chrome-accented side vent below the door mirror enhances the overall aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, a prominent V8 badge is a gentle yet bold reminder of the powerful engine beneath the bonnet.
The Patrol exudes a hard-to-miss and undeniable presence. Its distinctive features, from the sleek sidesteps to the imposing chrome bar on the electronically operated tailgate and the rugged 18-inch wheels adorned with massive sidewalls, proudly proclaim its identity as the unmistakable Patrol.
One could almost imagine that the designers meticulously carved the Patrol from a solid block of marble, judging from its robust design. As a testament to its formidable demeanour, the Patrol is a preferred choice for VIP transportation in the Middle East, where its reputation for reliability and security comes as no surprise.
During our time in South Africa, we relished the Patrol’s unique way of cocooning its passengers with luxurious leather, elegant wood accents, and premium-quality plastics. The interior provided an exceptional and cosy atmosphere, akin to sinking into a lavish ‘lazy boy’ chair while seated behind the wheel, enhanced further by the blissful heated and cooled seats.
The Nissan Patrol boasts modern technology features
With the Patrol being the flagship Nissan SUV, it’s fitted with a plethora of tech. Standard items include adaptive cruise control, electrically operated seats, two USB ports, a sunroof, a power socket and electrical adjustment for the steering wheel.
The centre console serves a dual purpose, functioning as a fridge with its cooling feature, whilst the 13-speaker BOSE audio system becomes essential considering the cabin’s spaciousness.
Even the rear passengers can travel in a lap of luxury thanks to eight-inch displays behind the front headrests, headphones and remote control.
A rotary dial between the driver and passenger provides access to 4×4 settings such as Sand, Rock, Snow, and On-Road. Speaking of on-road, we found the Patrol consummate as a cruiser, thanks to its incredibly smooth V8 engine mated to a seven-speed automatic gearbox.
Drive experience, suspension and performance
It boasts 298kW and has a self-levelling suspension that keeps things in check when the going gets tough.
Steering feels too light to offer lots of feel and quick response. Instead, the driving experience is about creating the impression that the SUV is doing the work while the driver and passengers enjoy the quiet cabin or their favourite music.
Despite its mammoth size, the Patrol is agile thanks to blind spot detection, large side mirrors and, most importantly, its 360-degree cameras. The latter provides a bird’s eye view of the surroundings. We got out of a tricky section on the gravel road thanks to the several cameras at the front, sides and rear.
The Nissan Patrol is the type of car one purchases and holds onto forever and could probably be passed on to future generations.
