By Khulekani Dumisa

Naturally aspirated V8 petrol? That almost sounds like the beginning of a fairy tale these days with the downsizing and going green that the world is experiencing. It was such a delight to experience a thoroughbred V8 in a car that could take us from Cape to Cairo without so much as breaking a sweat. Having received a facelift, we bonded with the updated Nissan Patrol for just over a week recently.

Exterior updates

The updates in the refreshed Nissan Patrol included Nissan’s V-motion grille along with new boomerang-shaped LED headlights. The headlight design housing is also incorporated into the bumper design.

At the back, the Patrol’s new taillights also spot the boomerang shape and are integrated along with a large chrome nameplate, and sequential rear turn indicators, a first for any Nissan vehicle. Machine-cut 18” alloy wheels round off the updated exterior look.

Interior

Inside, the updated Mzansi Patrol misses out on a new center console that incorporates dual displays featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Nevertheless, a plusher environment is however offered courtesy of new diamond-stitch quilted leather seats with added padding, improved air flow and noise reduction.

Patrolling Mzansi

The Patrol sees no changes in the engine department and is still powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine with 298 kW of power and 560 Nm of torque. Having conquered many landscapes in over 60 years of its existence, the formula, although slightly modernised, remains the same and ever compelling.

In our time with the car, we took it over a 1,000 km drive and its comfort stood out. The handling was also quite dynamic for a car of its size. The light steering made things easy and feel like we were piloting something far lighter.

The spacious cabin was also enjoyable. Dated as it is, it is adorned with quality materials, offers navigation, 360 degree cameras, a cooling box for drinks, DVD screens, many USBs and cup holders.

The imposing and towering nature of the car was a marvel to watch. Other than the GTR, we have never seen people looking at a Nissan vehicle with such admiration and respect. The fuel consumption on the open road was forgiving at 14,9L/100km from a vehicle this heavy and powered by a 5,6L V8 kicking out 298 kW and 560 Nm.

Additionally, the Nissan safety systems such as lane keep, blind spot monitor and adaptive cruise control enhanced the case for the car and had us wishing we could keep it for longer!

Final word

The refreshed Patrol is priced from R1,515,700. We like the new look, capability and the V8 engine although it can be extremely thirsty. We don’t like the dated interior. Although immensely capable, the Patrol runs into many newer and more modern competitors but it is to be taken very seriously if the mission is more than just Sandton pavements and a true desire to explore Mzansi and the continent.