Nissan has officially unveiled its all-new Patrol, but there’s no confirmation on when we should expect to see the off-roader in Australia.
Revealed overnight in Abu Dhabi, the seventh-generation Patrol wears a strikingly different design compared to its predecessors; employs a V6 twin-turbo engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission; and features customisable adaptive air suspension.
“The seventh generation is a bold leap forward, blending unparalleled performance, cutting-edge technology and a commanding presence to redefine what an SUV can be,” said Makoto Uchida, president and CEO of Nissan.
Engine
Building on more than 70 years of heritage, the new Patrol replaces the venerable Y62, which debuted in 2010 and was popular on local 4x4 tracks due to its off-road prowess and stonking 5.6L V8 that delivered 298kW and 560Nm. The recently revealed Patrol loses that V8 mite, but replaces it with two engine options: a 3.5-litre V6 twin-turbo petrol engine, and a 3.8-litre naturally aspirated V6.
The 3.5-litre V6 twin-turbo generates 425hp (317kW) and 700Nm – that’s an increase of 7 per cent (kW) and 25 per cent (Nm) compared to the V8. Plus, Nissan says it is 24 per cent more fuel efficient than the eight cylinder. The 3.8-litre naturally aspirated V6 produces 316hp (236kW) and 386Nm.
Nissan also states the V6 twin-turbo also benefits from improved throttle response for quicker acceleration; high combustion efficiency to maximise power output; and mirror bore coating to enhance thermal efficiency. It’s paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission – that’s two more cogs for those playing at home – controlled via a horizontal “Piano Button” e-shifter.
It may no longer have V8 power, but the new Patrol is now the most powerful factory Patrol ever.
Suspension
Nissan has integrated – as standard across the range – an all-new customisable adaptive air suspension. This set-up utilises e-damper technology, which automatically adjusts damper settings, to provide a comfortable and seamless journey between on- and off-road adventures.
The Patrol features six drive modes – standard, sand, rock, mud, eco and sport – as well as a 4WD transfer mode interlock system. This is a first for Nissan and allows drivers to easily transition between modes. In addition the Patrol is equipped with Vehicle Dynamic Control, Traction Control and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.
Interior
The Y63’s large interior has also been comprehensively updated, combining modern technology. refined comfort and more cargo space – up to 30 per cent more room than the Y62. The quilted leather seats, for example, have massage functionality and are inspired by the traditional Japanese wood craft, dubbed Kumiko (yep!). In fact, the first- and second-row pews are equipped with NASA-inspired spinal support technology, said to promote optimal posture and minimise fatigue.
The cabin is also said to be generously quieter, thanks to a combination of improved dynamic torsional rigidity and the addition of damping acoustic glass.
A cornerstone of the spacious interior is a 28.6-inch horizontal Monolith display, featuring twin 14.3-inch screens, on the front dash. Rear passengers aren’t neglected either, with the rear seats sporting dual 12.8-inch touchscreens. Sound booms through the cabin (select models only) courtesy of a 12-speaker Klipsch Premium Audio system.
Other key interior features include a combined nine litres of storage across the glove and console box; Biometric Cooling tech, that can detect body temperatures and adjust settings accordingly; clever EZ flex seats, which allows access to the third row without removing a child seat; a third-row power-fold function, which can fold and return the third-row seats via a touchscreen control; USB Type-C ports in every row; a wireless phone charger pad in the front centre console; and a panoramic sunroof is standard across the range.
Exterior design
The new-look Y63 Patrol features a wider V-motion grille, flanked by Double C-shaped headlights embedded with Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB) technology. The rear-end features a full-width light bar, while the Patrol can be optioned with 22-inch wheels.
A neat addition are the puddle lamps, which illuminate the Patrol silhouette in the desert, and the text “Since 1951” signifying the vehicle’s long production history of more than 70 years.
“The all-new Nissan Patrol projects strength, poise and confidence. We have worked hard to ensure that it continues to be instantly recognisable globally as the icon of premium off-road adventure,” said Alfonso Albaisa, Senior Vice President for global design at Nissan.
“Its new design carries the heritage of six generations of unmatched all-wheel drive capability, comfort and prestige. It raises the bar in terms of attention to detail, materials and fit and finish. Customers who love effortless exploration will immediately fall in love with the new Patrol,” Albaisa added.
Further details including exact measurements and specifications will be revealed closer to the Patrol’s local launch.
Safety and technology
At the forefront of Nissan’s safety suite is ProPILOT technology, which will make its debut in the Patrol. Nissan says the tech blends adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assistance; and it “leverages navigation data to adjust vehicle speed for curves and interchanges”.
A Panorama View function, with its ‘Ultra-Wide’ and ‘Invisible Hood’ views, will aid off-road pursuits. By utilising cameras and technology to project real-time images and obstacles, the Ultra-Wide view expands the field of vision to 170 degrees; while Invisible Hood – similar to Land Rover’s – provides a view of the area directly beneath the bonnet, making it ideal for ascending steep crests.
The Y63 Patrol is also equipped with seven airbags (driver’s knee airbags included); a 3D Around View Monitor; Smart Rear View Mirror; Rear Zoom View; Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Predictive Forward Collision Warning; and Rear Automatic Emergency Braking. A new body structure with increased use of high-strength steel is said to improve frontal crash and pedestrian protection.
The Y63 Patrol will also introduce NissanConnect 2.0, a technology suite that integrates Google to combine navigation, security and entertainment in one convenient location.
“This latest model captures the true spirit of what makes this iconic nameplate legendary – an enduring legacy of deep connections built over decades of shared experiences and memorable journeys across diverse terrains,” said Thierry Sabbagh, Divisional Vice President, President Middle East, KSA - Nissan, INFINITI.
“It reflects Nissan’s dedication to creating automotive experiences that resonate with our customers – and we are proud to present this next chapter in the Patrol’s remarkable journey,” Sabbagh added.
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