THE NEW NISSAN PATROL V6 Story Photography

Mobin Mathew Blesson Jun Estrada

Built for the region, the new V6 engine brings better fuel efficiency while increasing power and torque performance. Nissan Patrol is a name that dates back over 50 years, and is a Middle Eastern superstar vehicle that has seen its fan base raised exponentially over the years. Recently, the Japanese brand has pulled the wraps off their newest addition to its line-up: The Nissan Patrol V6.

Nissan Patrol V6, joining the line-up which currently includes the V8 variant, the NISMO, and the Desert Edition, V6 model is set to boost sales by 20% over a twoyear period and is anticipated to make up 60% of total Patrol sales in the near future.

Powered by a version of Nissan’s ubiquitous 4.0-litre V6 that does duty in the Xterra and the Pathfinder Classic, it makes 275hp and 394Nm of torque at a high 4,000rpm, but mated to a 7-speed automatic in this application.

However, according to Nissan, most of the torque is available at lower rpm, with a broader torque curve. Theoretically, this means you have to push the Patrol’s engine less to get the same amount of pull. The exterior as well as the interior are familiar. Everything we know about the Nissan Patrol is here.

Nissan says the V6 Patrol will do the 0-100kph run in 11.5 seconds, with a rated fuel consumption of 11.8 litres/100km.

It weighs around 90 kilograms less than the V8 variant and the V6 model boasts 13 per cent better fuel efficiency, a 16% better power to weight ratio, and a 34% better torque to weight ratio.

The new Patrol V6 is designed for and tested in the region to meet all types of terrain and temperature conditions.

As per my experience with the car on the steep mountain roads around the Alila Jabal Akhdar resort, where the two-wheel cars are not allowed, the acceleration figures of the new Patrol V6 are probably accurate, while I had to push the engine pretty hard to keep it moving up and down the road, holding the gears in second or third.

On the highway is where the new addition to the Patrol line-up shines. Once it settles down on the expressway to the showroom in Qurum, the engine runs under 2,200rpm at 120kph. So, a decent fuel economy is achievable for those who drive in a proper way.

The engine noise is muted decently so the drive is very refined. The Hydraulic Body Motion Control system is not available on the V6, yet the ride was smooth, fairly quiet and not too floaty.

Available exclusively in the Middle East, the Patrol V6 is identical in design to the Patrol V8 and will be available in both XE and SE grades, each with many optional extras available.

The Platinum version which I drove got the standard stitchedleatherette dashboard panels, well-padded leatherette armrests and a properly-folding third-row seat, unlike its main rival.

It also got the around view cameras system, leather seats, integrated stereo with touch screen and a full set of airbags and 20 inch alloys.

Lower grades get a basic rear camera, nice cloth upholstery, 18inch wheels and a simpler 2-DIN stereo without a screen. Of course, tons of space comes standard.

The Nissan Patrol V6 2017 will not be available with a manual transmission and the prices range from OMR20,000 to OMR30,000.

As it stands, the Nissan Patrol is one of the most wanted SUV’s in our market; the new V6 will set it to increase.