Nissan Patrol outback icon returns

Sure, it’s at the opposite end of the automotive spectrum from the diminutive electric-powered Nissan Leaf, which is also on display, but together the pair highlights the huge range of consumer demand in the Australian market.

Following its debut at Abu Dhabi in the Middle East earlier this year, the new V8-powered Patrol is coming Down Under and is targeted squarely at another big player – the V8 powered 200 Series LandCruiser.

Like the LandCruiser, Patrol is an Australian Outback icon. In fact, it was the very first vehicle to cross the Simpson Desert – which well pre-dated GPS, satellite telephones and the like when it achieved this milestone way back in 1962.

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The modern-day Patrol’s 5.6-litre V8 pumps out a healthy dose of peak power – 298kW – together with a wall of torque measuring 550Nm at its peak. It’ll star beside the existing 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine and the 4.8-litre inline six with its 180kW and 400Nm peaks.

The new Patrol features independent suspension and a ladder-frame chassis – the former being a real advantage on-road, where Nissan’s worldwide research suggests 85 per cent of Patrols remain (though the proportion may be slightly less in Australia), while the latter proves itself a boon to bona-fide off-road enthusiasts.

Large 4WD sales are dwindling in Australia – partly due to an explosion of choice in the medium SUV set. But for those who want ultimate towing capability together with strong performance, luxury inclusions and true all-terrain ability, the new V8 Nissan Patrol is a must-see exhibit at the Show.