2011 PATROL
Nissan Product Design Director, Taiji Toyota, said the new Patrol was designed to appear less rugged, taking on a more upscale look.
"Not as edgy and hardcore as its predecessor, the softer new surfaces are beautiful and add a sense of modernity to the design equation, while still maintaining a ruggedness and commanding road presence," Mr Toyota said.
While Nissan has not revealed the new Patrol's full powertrain line-up, the 2011 Patrol will feature a new direct-injected 5.6 litre V8 engine developing 300kW and 550Nm of torque.
A new seven-speed automatic transmission will be paired with the V8, along with an upgraded four-wheel-drive system that includes settings for driving on road, sand, snow and rock.
Four-wheel independent suspension replaces the previous model's rigid axle setup. A new Hydraulic Body Motion Control system is featured, designed to reduce body roll in cornering and lane changing.
Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control figure among the new Patrol's other systems, along with an updated brake package that includes a hydraulic brake booster and four-piston opposed front calipers on 358mm discs.
According to Nissan, most SUV owners devote less than 15 percent of their driving time to off-road pursuits. Because of this, the 2011 Patrol offers a more luxurious interior than previous generations. Mr Toyota described the new Patrol's cabin as a "better, higher quality interior for the whole family".
Depending on the trim level, features of the new Patrol's interior include leather upholstery, polished aluminium highlights and wood grain paneling.
A new multi-screen DVD system figures on the new Patrol's options list, with two headrest-mounted seven-inch screens to entertain rear passengers.
Local pricing and availability details are not expected to be revealed until next year.
Category Article 2011 PATROL
