The sixth generation of the tough Nissan Patrol off-roader will be launched in Australia early next year, three years after it went on sale in the Middle East. Why is this of interest to us here in South Africa? Well Australia is another market in the Southern Hemisphere which shares similar product offerings and specification levels, meaning new models launched Down Under have potential to make it across the pond to Mzanzi.
The Australian specification of the Nissan Patrol comes with a 5.6-litre V8 engine producing 298 kW and 560 Nm of torque. The engine will be linked to the familiar Nissan and Infiniti 7-speed automatic gearbox and the Nissan’s All-Mode 4×4 system. Fuel consumption for the big V8 is rated at 14.5 L/100km and the towing capacity is 3 500 kg.
Standard specification has gone more upmarket than before on the 2013 Nissan Patrol, and includes Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, an 8-way power assisted driver’s seat, iPod connectivity, six-speaker audio system, dual zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors with rear view camera, as well as active front headrests and front, side and curtain airbags.
The top specification levels receive ‘Hydraulic Body Motion Control’, rain sensing wipers, auto headlights, a sunroof, HDD-based navigation system, 13-speaker BOSE sound system, memory function for driver’s seat, ‘Around View Monitor’ and dual seven-inch DVD screens in the rear of the front headrests.
Prices for the 2013 Nissan Patrol range from AUD$85 000 to AUD$115 000, which is roughly R750 000 to R990 000 at today’s exchange rate and excluding any duties or taxes. Nissan Patrol fans shouldn’t hold their breath just yet though, as there has been no confirmation from Nissan South Africa as to whether the right-hand drive variant will make its way to South Africa. Our fingers are crossed though, as we’re fond of the extra luxury and Toyota Land Cruiser/Prado-inspired styling.
