The Nissan Patrol, which certainly has its fair share of fans in South Africa, comes back to life in the seventh-generation version recently launched in Abu Dhabi and it is squarely aimed at taking market share from Toyota’s Land Cruiser 300.

Appropriately launched in the very desert battleground where much of the tussle will take place – along with other global off road havens, the new Patrol is supremely luxurious.

New Nissan Patrol in the desert

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The latest Patrol introduces a new 3,5-litre twin-turbo V6 engine that delivers 317 kW of power and 700 Nm of torque. Nissan claims this engine is more efficient than the outgoing V8 it replaces. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system, the Patrol promises enhanced performance.

There's also a 3,8-litre naturally aspirated V6 option producing 236 kW. However, a diesel variant is notably absent from the lineup.

Standard features include air suspension and drivers can seamlessly switch between six distinct driving modes using the new 4WD transfer mode interlock system.

New Nissan Patrol interior view

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Inside, the Patrol is adorned with luxurious touches. The quilted leather seats feature patterns inspired by Japan's traditional Kumiko woodcraft. Other amenities include a 12-speaker Klipsch Premium Audio system and 64-colour ambient lighting.

An innovative Biometric Cooling system adjusts the temperature for the first two seating rows based on the occupants' body temperatures detected by infrared sensors. The cockpit boasts twin 14,3-inch displays running an integrated Google operating system. For rear passengers, optional dual 12,8-inch screens are available, supporting Miracast, HDMI or USB inputs.

On the technology front, driver assistance features include a 3D Around View Monitor and Panorama View. The latter expands the front field of vision to 170 degrees with 'Invisible Hood View' and 'Ultra Wide View' systems, enhancing visibility during off-road excursions. The Patrol continues to offer three rows of seating, and luggage space has reportedly increased by up to 30%.

New Nissan Patrol static view front

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Nissan's Global CEO, Makoto Uchida, highlighted that the new Patrol represents the company's commitment to delivering exciting and empowering models under its global business plan, The Arc. He noted the seventh generation marks a significant leap forward by blending exceptional performance, cutting-edge technology and a commanding presence, thereby redefining what an SUV can be.

Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with

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