Since the birth of the first Nissan PATROL in 1951, the new PATROL we meet this time has been the VI generation product. It is one of the vehicle types that enjoys the longest history in Nissan family and is also one type that embraces high reliability and reputation among Japanese SUVs. In the past, we could see PATROL in many places despite the fact that there were not many in China.

Shape Design  9 points

People who have seen new PATROL will certainly link it to Infiniti QX56 that entered the domestic market at an earlier time. That’s right. This vehicle type of full size is frequently applied to different brands. New PATROL also fits into the positioning. Therefore, it is essential to borrow rather than to design a new platform.

New PATROL’s shape impresses people with grandeur. It retains the classic face design of the previous generation. However, the vehicle also embraces a unique feature of smooth streamline design. The designs of approach angle and departure angle are exclusive to SUVs. Tires with thick wall and a combination of road and cross-country performances cost a relatively large amount of money. Among SUVs, new PATROL absolutely plays a leading role with more user-friendly design and more deluxe appearance.

Interior Layout    8 Points

New PATROL’s interior trim is apparently pleasant. Interior trim with light color looks rather comfortable. All designs in the large space within the vehicle are even and moderate, with reasonable layout of buttons and large size of steering wheel. In terms of workmanship, the interior trim of new PATROL is not different from that of Infiniti QX56, except some functions. Generally speaking, New PATROL displays the highest standards of Nissan.

New PATROL adopts the layout of 2－3－2 with air outlet exclusive to each seat. Seat adjuster is subject to electric operation, which is highly convenient. However, as a new car, new PATROL may seem to be sort of old-fashioned in terms of overall style, thus being stereotyped to some degree as compared with its European counterparts.

Comfortable Configuration     9 Points

In terms of configuration, new PATROL is also awesome. Firstly, passengers in the front and back may have access to DVD screen entertainment system and the freezer with two-way opening under the central handrail is undoubtedly one of the most essential devices in summer days. In fact, new PATROL takes more pride in many safety configurations designed for driving, such as LDW＋LDP lane departure warning and restoring system and even FCW front collision warning system, all of which are highly practical safety configurations.

New PATROL also performs well in other configurations. Multi-regional air-conditioner system could satisfy the needs of passengers in each row. In addition, the functions of heating and ventilation are also available. It will have a better performance if the size of panoramic sunroof is bigger.

Humanized Design     9 Points

Apart from the design of freezer mentioned above, seats in the rear row of new PATROL are also under electric adjustment, which avoids a lot of trouble. Besides, designers equip pedal in both sides of new PATROL. The configuration is very practical, being applied nearly every time upon getting on the vehicle.  

New PATROL is equipped with 360°visual film and video system which can help the owner put large PATROL more easily into the parking space or clear away blindness with more ease. Certainly, the trunk is also opened electrically. And all of those including the key-free system are the best demonstration of the humanized design.

Interior Space   10 Points

In evaluating QX56, we also gave 10 points for affirmation. However, compared with QX56, new PATROL is more excellent than QX56 in space use. The secret lies in the design of three-people seat at the second row. The tiny difference could make big change, thus apparently the new PATROL is more suitable.

The third row is also one of the highlights of new PATROL. It is not a chicken-rib space like those in other SUVs but could accommodate an adult easily. You will feel not uncomfortable even if you have been seated for a relatively long time. As spacious as it is, it is undisputed for us to praise it in terms of space.

Speeding up Test     8 Points

It is a perfect match to equip V8 engine to the large SUV. However, it is a little different from the power of QX56 which has higher adjustment performance and tends more to sports. However, power of new PATROL is also greatly ensured with the torque of middle and low rotating speed being able to fully satisfy the daily requirements. 

In the speeding up test, the engine with a maximum power of 293 KW displays quick start-up. Automatic gearbox with 7 speeds works well both in connection and response. Finally, the time for 0-100 km/h is kept at 7.9s.

Braking Test    8 Points

For such a huge entity, self weight seems to be the most critical factor that influence the braking performance. However, it might not be all the reasons. Under full braking, new PATROL presents even braking release and less obvious sinking of the head, displaying a relatively good control of the overall gesture. For an average braking distance exceeding 42m, it has been up to the standard.

Fuel Consumption Test        7 Points  

We have also conducted a comprehensive test for the fuel consumption of Nissan new PATROL. It has a tank with a volume of up to 100 liters which grants it the excellent endurance ability. It is particularly important in remote areas where there are few gas stations. And filling the tank not only needs time but also sufficient money.  

We still adopts urban road segment testing this time. The tank is refilled up after driving for some mileage. The final result we got is 14.3L. The result is obtained based on relatively good road condition. Fuel consumption will experience greater change in road conditions such as traffic jam.  

Noise Test     9 Points

Generally speaking, the new PATROL is a quiet vehicle, which is contributed by V8 engine and the success of overall noise suppression. It should be admitted that its brother vehicle Infiniti QX56 performs better, which is understandable. On the whole, new PATROL has definitely made driving more comfortable and pleasant.

Control Test    9 Points

PATROL has been always specialized in the aspect of controlling. This time, multiple modes of road condition such as sand, rock, road and snowfield are added with various electronic controlling systems, thus being able to ensure a successful passing of vehicles with more ease. Surely, slow descending at steep slope and the equipment of rear differential lock could also greatly enhance the off-road performance.  

When going through stakes, New PATROL could keep a good gesture consistently, which is also the guarantee provided by the hydraulic body-motion control system. So many technical devices provide a solid guarantee for the stability and comfortableness of new PATROL in driving.

Summary    86 Points

New PATROL of Nissan has experienced a thorough updating. It is more market-oriented with its grandeur and comfortableness being greatly enhanced. Undoubtedly, it also retains the excellent off-road performance. Just consider that owners of new PATROL may be faced with less extreme road conditions, therefore priority should be given to comfortableness.