The new Nissan Patrol puts premium SUVs in its sights

The new Patrol is not only the largest of Nissan's SUVs, but also the most luxurious. For the seventh generation, the Japanese brand has envisaged rather squared-off lines to which is added a front end with a larger-than-usual V-shaped grille and three strips that complete the LED light line. Standard are the 22-inch alloy wheels and the colour offer with 7 shades and 4 different two-tone combinations. It will be on sale initially in Middle Eastern countries, but may also arrive in Europe.

There is a triumph of quilted leather for the handcrafted seats, but also fittings with electric adjustments that will offer top-class comfort. The dashboard is dominated by the 28.6-inch mega-display, joined by two more, both 14.3-chicken, for digital instrumentation and infotainment. Completing the cabin equipment are standard 64-colour ambient lights and a large panoramic roof that stretches the length of the car.

The new Patrol offers the innovative NissanConnect 2.0 system with Googel Built-in platform that debuts for the first time on a Nissan, integrating several functions namely navigation, data protection and infotaiment. Also included as standard is the ProPilot range in the Level 2 driving version. Other goodies include a camera located under the bodywork to detect obstacles that are visible in the on-board display screens.

Also inside is the third row of seats for a total of seven seats on board that can be lowered with a convenient electric function, thus allowing a huge flat space capable of accommodating even very bulky loads. The Japanese manufacturer does not give a measure of the space on board for now, but merely states that it is 30 per cent more than the previous Patrol. We will know more when it is launched in the Middle East on 1 November.

The new generation Patrol replaces the V8 engine with two V6s, the first a 3.8 cc naturally aspirated engine offering 316 hp of power and 386 Nm of torque, while the second is a 3.5 cc twin-turbo with 425 hp of power and 700 Nm of maximum torque. Both engines feature a 9-speed automatic transmission and permanent all-wheel drive. Air suspension modifies the car's ground clearance and stance while up to six different driving modes are also available for the new Patrol.