7th generation of Nissan Patrol launched in Abu Dhabi

After World War II, automakers in Japan resumed production of motor vehicles, starting off with those that were required for the reconstruction of the country. These were lorries and trucks, and what we call SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles) today.

Back then, they were just utility vehicles with a simple 4×4 drivetrain and followed the designs of the American Jeep and British Land Rover. Toyota developed the Land Cruiser and Mitsubishi built licensed versions of the Jeep. Nissan’s model was called the Patrol, which was introduced in 1951.

Although such vehicles, once also referred to as ‘dual-purpose’ vehicles, have evolved into smaller and more passenger car-based ‘crossover’ vehicles, full-sized models like the Patrol have still been in demand. They retain the more robust architecture of the traditional SUVs which appeals to certain groups of customers.

This week, the Patrol starts it seventh generation after 73 years of continuous production, making its global debut in Abu Dhabi, one of the Middle East markets where it has remained popular.

The latest generation introduces several advancements, with a totally new design, powerful V6 twin-turbo engine, 9-speed automatic transmission and customizable adaptive air suspension for enhanced all-terrain capability.

Capturing the essence of Nissan’s global design philosophy, the new Patrol’s exterior styling has a  distinctive silhouette that indicates its ‘unbreakable’ and rugged capability, characterized by bold and sculpted lines, balanced proportions and impressive approach and departure angles.

The brand’s signature V-motion grille  has been widened and is more integrated into the body,  flanked by enhanced Double C-shaped headlights featuring Adaptive Driving Beam technology to ensure optimal visibility. Complementing this is the Patrol’s rear façade, which echoes the front grille with a full-width light bar that draws attention with its segmented design.

“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. 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,” said Alfonso Albaisa, Nissan’s Senior Vice-President for global design.

The 7^th generation Patrol is the most powerful to date and is available with 2 new engine options. Customers can choose from a 3.5-litre V6 twin turbo engine, delivering an 425 bhp/700Nm or 3.8-litre naturally aspirated V6 engine which produces 361 bhp/386 Nm.

The 9-speed automatic transmission provides driving capability in the city as well as when going off-road. The new suspension adopts e-damper technology that automatically adjusts the damper settings according to the driving conditions for a more controlled and comfortable onboard experience.

As before, drivers can tailor their drive with a selection of 6 distinct drive modes – standard, sand, rock, mud, eco and sport. There is also a new 4WD transfer mode interlock system, a first for Nissan, which offers intuitive handling across various terrains, allowing drivers to seamlessly switch between modes and tackle challenging landscapes with ease.

The new Nissan SUV also features a new adaptive air suspension system available as standard – allowing for adjustable ride height, effortless on-road cruising and off-road performance. In addition to improved aerodynamic efficiency, it also facilitates easy passenger entry and exit, as well as convenient loading and unloading of gear.

The refreshed interior has new quilted leather seats that offer a new level of indulgence, with detailing inspired by the traditional Japanese woodcraft, Kumiko. The seats also have massage functionality and 8-way adjustment capabilities, providing a balance of cushioning and ergonomic support to deliver excellent comfort.

The first and second-row seats are equipped with NASA-inspired spinal support technology, designed to promote optimal posture and minimize fatigue. Additionally, the horizontal ‘Piano Button’ E-shifter introduced for the first time in the Patrol offers a sleek and intuitive way to select gears, enhancing convenience and modernizing the driving experience at the touch of a button.

Complementing the sensory sophistication from premium sound systems is the segment-first Biometric Cooling technology, designed to maintain optimal comfort regardless of external temperatures. This innovative system uses a built-in infrared sensor to detect the body temperature of front and second-row passengers, and automatically adjusts airflow settings to provide a smart, intuitive cooling experience.

This is the first Nissan vehicle in the GCC (Middle East) region with Google built-in, which makes a near-seamless interaction between a customer’s digital life and their vehicle. Complemented by NissanConnect 2.0, which is available with Google, drivers can access their favourite locations and points of interest, reducing dependence on a mobilephone.

Google built-in includes Google Assistant which allows the driver to use their voice for hands-free help on the go. Like an Android smartphone, drivers also gain access to an ecosystem of apps that are available for download on Google Play.

Nissan’s ProPILOT technology makes its debut in the new Nissan Patrol, supporting drivers with a blend of adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance. This system leverages navigation data to adjust vehicle speed for curves and interchanges, enhancing safety and control for a more secure driving experience.

“As Nissan’s oldest nameplate and knowing the reverence in which the Patrol is held, the new seventh generation brings more performance, with better fuel economy, as well as outstanding and easy to use tech. The all-new Patrol is a technical tour de force combined with craftmanship, precision and practicality. It will transport families and friends in effortless comfort across the most demanding dunes, challenging mountains or busy urban jungle. Drivers and passengers will relish the ride – regardless of the destination,” said Ivan Espinosa, Chief Planning Officer at Nissan Motor.

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