Patrol owners revel in its off-road capabilities at ‘Desert Challenge’
There were more than 46 enthusiasts who participated in the ‘Desert Challenge’ held in the challenging dunes of Al Kamil
MUSCAT: Nissan Oman’s ‘ Desert Challenge’ for Nissan Patrol owners proved to be a unique experience as the expedition provided an ideal platform to demonstrate superior performance, reliability and advanced technologies of the model.
There were more than 46 enthusiasts who participated in the ‘Desert Challenge’ held in the challenging dunes of Al Kamil. The participants, who drove from Nissan Qurum showroom, camped overnight in the deserts of Al Kamil. The exclusive desert driving experience enabled attendees to test the full off-road capabilities of the Nissan Patrol on the dunes of Al Kamil.
A spokesperson for Nissan Oman, from the house of Suhail Bahwan Automobiles (SBA), said, “It was truly a fun and learning experience. The legendary 4WD SUV Nissan Patrol allowed participants to conquer a challenging desert terrain and realise its performance. It gave them an opportunity to explore Nissan Patrol’s safety features, unmatched power and reliability in extremely arduous desert terrain.”
He added, “It was also a challenge to test driving skills of the participants. We would like to thank loyal fans of Nissan Patrol for participating in the ‘ Desert Challenge’. Nissan Patrol with enhanced luxury features, premium design and new advanced technologies has plenty of admirers in Oman. The all-new 2020 Nissan Patrol, which was given a major makeover with a bold new look, advanced safety technology, and Nissan Intelligent Mobility features has continued to further strengthen its position and win hearts of customers.”
A participant said, “The ‘Desert Challenge’ was an exhilarating experience. The drive in the desert exhibited the vehicle’s high performance and durability. I was delighted to experience the supreme power of the Patrol and the ease with which it could tackle the dunes. It was truly an out-of-the-world experience for my family as well.”
Nissan Patrol: Hero of all-terrain
Nissan Oman had recently unveiled the all-new 2020 Nissan Patrol, the brand’s SUV flagship that delivers even higher levels of comfort, safety and connectivity.
Nissan Patrol holds a special place in the hearts and minds of customers in Oman who value performance even in the toughest of conditions, a key attribute of the Patrol. One of the brand’s longest-standing and most cherished models with a long and proud heritage, the all-new Nissan Patrol represents the peak of luxury and ultimate capability and continues to provide authentic experiences to its loyal customers in the Sultanate.
Icon of Nissan’s SUV heritage
The Nissan Patrol is the icon of Nissan’s SUV heritage, loved by generations of loyal customers who have purchased about 1.9 million units since it debuted in 1951. Known for its durability, reliability, premium design, safety, comfort features and unmatched all-terrain performance, the Patrol remains the flagship of Nissan’s extensive 4x4 lineup.
Engineered from the wheels up to tackle the most demanding driving conditions on the planet, over the years Nissan Patrol has more than earned its reputation. Patrol can provide the same outstanding level of comfort cruising on the highway or negotiating rocky mountain terrain.
New attitude
Nissan Patrol’s look has a new attitude for 2020 forgoing pure brawn for sophistication as the design moves to be more tech-forward. Extensive front and rear alterations have created a Patrol that is somehow sleek despite its size.
The signature design changes for the new model include an impressive new interpretation of Nissan’s V-motion grille, which is the foundation for what surrounds it. The angles of each element that makes up the front end playoff the V-motion grille in perfect harmony. Boomerang-shaped LED headlights have been interpreted in a new way for SUVs, to highlight both the strong front graphic and improved technology.
There are also two unique front bumper treatments available. One is an aerodynamic city bumper while the other is a more robust bumper for off-road.
The rear of the Patrol has also undergone a complete refresh that seamlessly integrates new boomerang-shaped taillights and a larger chrome nameplate. Like the front, the rear bumper is upright and angular, elevating the refinement of the vehicle’s overall design. Sequential rear turn indicators have also been added for new Patrol, the first time it has been implemented on a Nissan vehicle.
The Platinum version received a new 20-inch wheel design subtly updating the previous Patrol’s 12-spoke design with six additional bisecting spindles.
Two new body colours gold metallic and white pearl, join a substantial array of paint schemes including the silver, gun metallic, black and dark blue pearl.
Inside, a new centre console incorporates dual displays, an 8-inch upper display and a 7-inch lower touchscreen. Both feature all-new graphics with a 250% improvement in resolution. The commander switch that helps easily navigate between infotainment settings has been moved to directly underneath the shifter, making it easier to operate.
The instrument cluster also gets a rethink with new analogue gauges bracketing a stunning 7-inch digital display that delivers an array of information to the driver from navigation cues to fuel economy.
Powerful powertrains
The 2020 Nissan Patrol retains the most powerful powertrains in the segment, a four-wheel-drive system with switchable modes and an assortment of advanced tech.
Both the Patrol’s available engines are the best in class when it comes to power. The base 4.0-litre V6 produces 275 horsepower and 394 Nm of torque. Move up to the 5.6-litre V8 and power increases to 400 horses and 560 Nm of torque. An ECO mode is new for 2020 in V8 models to maximise driving for fuel-efficiency.
The V8 engine’s direct injection system provides better wideopen throttle performance and improved fuel economy and emissions performance. The powerful engines ensure customers have enough power on the highway and to tackle the most challenging conditions off-road. Both versions are equipped with an advanced 7-speed automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Control. A 140-litre fuel tank provides an ample driving range.
Hydraulic Body Motion Control (HBMC) available on V8 engine models is an advanced suspension system, which reduces vehicle lean while turning for a more comfortable on-road driving experience. When off-roading the HBMC system allows maximum suspension stroke as part of delivering Patrol’s go anywhere capability.
This system gives Patrol superb stability on rugged and sandy terrain while delivering a smooth ride on city streets.
The standard bumper allows customers to attack even most challenging off-road conditions with the approach angle of 34.4 degrees and the departure angle to 26.3 degrees, while aerodynamic stylish city bumper adds to the overall prestige look of the vehicle.
Hill Start Assist helps avoid any roll back when moving up a steep incline while Hill Descent Control assists you down severe or slippery slopes at a constant low speed without the need for braking.
Responsive braking is provided by a 4-wheel disc brake system with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution ( EBD) and Brake Assist. Also standard is 4-wheel limited-slip (ABLS) and a Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system (which includes a deactivation switch). Steering is provided by an engine-speed-sensitive powerassisted rack-and-pinion steering system.
The V8s durable independent double-wishbone front and rear suspension provide smooth ride comfort and responsive handling for both on-road and off-road driving. The front stabilizer bar is 36 mm in diameter, while the rear measures 26.5 mm. Twin-tube shock absorbers are featured on each corner.
Extensive suite of safety systems
The model year 2020 Patrol also stands out for its extensive suite of available advanced safety and security systems. They are part of the Nissan Intelligent Mobility platform, which delivers a safer, more connected, and confident ride.
The newly added Intelligent Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection will bring the Patrol to a full stop if a collision is determined to be imminent. It can also sense whether the collision would be caused by another vehicle or a pedestrian.
This comes in addition to the standard Intelligent Forward Collision Warning system that can help warn the driver of risks that lie beyond the driver’s forward field of vision. The advanced radar system not only can sense the relative velocity and distance of a vehicle directly ahead but also of a vehicle travelling in front of the preceding one. Also included is standard Intelligent Cruise Control.
On the sides, Lane Departure Warning and Intervention systems along with Blind Spot Warning can help alert and assist the driver of potential lane drift and detected vehicles approaching in the blind spot area. In the rear, an Intelligent Rear-View Mirror can show an unobstructed image from a camera mounted on the rear of the vehicle. The innovative Intelligent Around View Monitor shows a 360-degree image of the Patrol’s surroundings for tight parking situations or when negotiating tight off-road trails.
Rear Cross Traffic Alert warns when a vehicle is approaching when the car is in reverse leaving a driveway or parking spot. The Patrol also features Backup Collision Intervention, which will stop the vehicle if a collision is predicted.
Quality luxury
The new Patrol enhances an already top-flight cabin in terms of materials, seat comfort and space. New for the 2020 model are diamond stitch quilted leather seats with added padding and increased comfort. A new GT-R Tan leather is also new joining beige and black interior colour schemes, depending on the grade. Front seats feature climate control with powered lumbar support and both front and second-row maintain best-inclass roominess, availability dependent on the grade.
Adding to the premium feel is hand-stitched leather on the steering wheel and centre console with enhanced wood trim.
Significant enhancements of noise and vibration have been done, making for a quieter cabin. Improved cooling and airflow systems lead to quicker cooling – or heating – throughout the cabin with a focus on improving secondrow cooling.
While interior room remains unchanged overall, the eight-passenger configuration offers maximum comfort for all three rows. Even the third-row seats slide and recline, allowing all passengers to get to their destination comfortably.