Sometimes, a midsize SUV isn’t enough for a variety of reasons. Power, tech, comfort – whatever it may be, some people just demand more for their everyday ride. Lucky for them, Nissan has the Patrol that’s ready to take them anywhere they please.
The Philippine Star editorial team was fortunate enough to be invited by Nissan to exclusively test drive the Nissan Patrol for a quick jaunt in Alabang.
It’s not every day you can drive the SUV of choice of the affluent. So read on to find out how the New Nissan Patrol is a beast yet gentle with its manners.
Like most in its class, the Patrol started as a utilitarian vehicle in its first few years. It was only lately that it got a bit more mild in its aesthetic but this generation is a huge improvement in design. It still has the imposing stance of a full-size SUV yet it has friendly curves that would draw you in. Looking at you are sleek headlights with Nissan’s signature DRL design and a bold but not outlandish V-motion grille highlighted by the new Nissan emblem. This look continues at the back where things become more rugged-ready. The lower bumper is infused with a sporty diffuser, there’s a tow hitch at the center, and the taillights have the same pattern as the headlights.
What powers the Patrol is a beastly V8 gasoline engine that puts out 405 PS and 560 Nm of torque, paired to a 7-speed automatic transmission with manual mode. The best thing about this powertrain is that despite the huge numbers, it’s very easy to tame. It won’t jump out at a blip of the throttle but you’ll feel that it has power on tap anytime, ready to elevate the Patrol to its limit. This makes city driving very easy and highway driving, a breeze.
This gentlemanly power delivery is complemented by a plush interior that’s fitted with the latest tech. The center console on the dashboard has been refreshed with a 12.3” Advanced Touchscreen Display Audio with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. If the boss wants music, he’ll hear it through the 13-speaker Bose sound system.
Under that are the tri-zone automatic climate control and a wireless charger for a clutter-free experience in your every drive. Up top is a sunroof to let just the right amount of light without overbearing heat. There’s also a new 7” Advanced Drive Assist Display and a cooling box between the front seats for those extra long drives.
Speaking of, front occupants are treated to powered seating with adjustable climate control which is perfect for the hot summers of the Philippines. It’s paired with active head restraint to fully keep you in place during tight corners. Those at the rear aren’t left out as they have plush seats with great space, their own climate control, USB ports for charging, and well-padded armrests on the doors.
An elevated level of safety was also implemented in the New Nissan Patrol. It has 13 Nissan Intelligent Mobility features ranging from Intelligent Cruise Control, Intelligent Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning with Intelligent Emergency Braking, High Beam Assist, and Lane Departure Warning with Intelligent Lane Intervention among others.
On top of all these, what really made a lasting impression on me is the Nissan Patrol’s ride and drive comfort. It’s just very cozy, especially for an SUV of this size. The cabin was quiet, the suspension was supple, and the steering had just enough firmness to make accurate turns. As our team noted, the throttle input was very mild and so are the brakes without giving you the impression of being weak. You’ll definitely enjoy being a passenger here but driving it isn’t an arduous task either.
The New Nissan Patrol is a lot of car for P4,758,000. It undercuts its rivals by a few hundred thousands while offering more in size, features, and safety while ensuring comfort in all ways. Combine that with Nissan’s 5-year or 150,000km warranty and it would be hard to find fault in this full-size SUV. Learn more about the Nissan Patrol by going to Nissan Philippines’ website at vehicles.nissan.ph/Patrol_Web_PStar.