Nissan Patrol ST-L

Can't rightly say why, but I've always had a soft spot for Nissan. Perhaps it's because they build a good range of vehicles nowadays, or maybe because they're bravely taking the four-wheel-drive battle to King Toyota - Aussies always love an underdog.

Either way, I'm always keen to slide behind the tiller of Nissan's 2005 Patrol range. But don't be fooled: while it's got spiffing new clobber inside and out, Nissan's '05 update is short on mechanical substance.

Nissan has gone for the angular look with its LandCruiser competitor, and it certainly amplifies the big car's presence on the road. Underneath, the Patrol bears a striking mechanical resemblance to the GU Patrol, first launched in 1997, but if it ain’t broke...

In fact, the reasoning behind the '05 update was to improve Patrol's look and comfort without damaging its real-world abilities. To that end, Patrol gets a more modern dashboard and instrument cluster similar to XTrail and 350Z, and a new range of upholstery and trim. Apart from a minor change to the 3.0lt four-cylinder turbo diesel and manual combo - it gets 3kW more power and 26Nm more torque - the engines are largely unchanged.
Which means three engines - 4.8lt petrol six, 4.2lt turbo diesel six and 3.0lt turbodiesel four - available with a mix of five-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmissions. A dual-range transfer case and one of the toughest 4x4 drive systems is standard on all models.

Depending on which of the 17 different wagon models you choose, Nissan will take between $49,540 and $77,690 from your wallet. Trailer Boat didn't have to fork out any hard-earned for its Patrol ST-L, but then we had to give it back - at least that's what the police officer said.

Still, one week's enough to know the Patrol's more than capable at towing. A high and comfortable driving position gives good vision in all directions, and makes judging the monster's size easier than you'd imagine. Seat flexibility is not matched by the tilt-only steering wheel, but a fairly comfortable relationship with the steering wheel can be achieved.
There's no shortage of room in the Patrol, whether for occupants or luggage. We wonder, however, how long that "up and to the side" third row of seats will last before a more elegant and less intrusive solution is found.

The split-opening rear door is interesting; perhaps it's better than the lifting tailgate when you've got a big boat on the back, depending on how close your boat sits to the car.
Our 3.0lt Patrol’s biggest weakness is its absolute lethargy off the mark, which is strange given the torque convertor advantage automatic diesels usually enjoy. There was also a strange delay in initial throttle response, which caused problems when anticipating traffic gaps and traffic light changes.

Once underway, however, the diesel's robust torque delivery endows the big Patrol with solid accelerative performance. It's best described as smooth and relentless - and was hurt little by Trailer Boat's 1000kg giveaway test rig. The engine's considered nature reduces the jerkiness inherent in more responsive drivetrains.

In slippery conditions Patrol's selectable four-wheel drive system comes in handy - though why it's not a full-time four-wheel drive is beyond us. A rugged rear limited-slip diff also helps the rear end make use of all available grip, and strong low-rev torque ensures plenty of pull when it counts.

Ultimately, though, we can't help feeling Patrol's starting to fall behind the times. LandCruiser's a more civilised wagon around town, and its diesel drive-train is more responsive and willing. Perhaps it's time for Nissan to dig into its cash reserve and throw a little development moolah Patrol's way. Because it's one all-duty vehicle we'd hate to see disappear.

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