The Nissan Patrol may be an aging SUV, but it remains a standout in off-road performance, especially with the introduction of the Patrol Warrior, a special edition designed exclusively for the Australian market. Despite the Patrol’s long-standing presence since 2010, this edition brings fresh enhancements courtesy of Premcar, an Australian engineering firm that specializes in high-performance modifications.
If you’re wondering why the Patrol Warrior deserves attention in today’s rapidly evolving automotive landscape, it’s because this model has been transformed into an off-road beast—complete with mechanical upgrades and visual tweaks.
What Sets the Patrol Warrior Apart?
The Patrol Warrior isn’t just a facelift of the existing model. Much like the Nissan Navara Pro-4X Warrior, Premcar has made significant upgrades to make the Patrol even more capable off the beaten path. These upgrades begin with a suspension overhaul, increasing the ride height by 29 mm (1.1 inches). The Patrol Warrior also features new 18-inch wheels wrapped in Yokohama G015 295/70 All-Terrain tires.
Beyond the suspension, the Warrior includes a re-engineered Hydraulic Body Motion Control system, along with newly-developed springs and bump stops for enhanced off-road performance. These modifications give the Patrol Warrior a commanding presence, sitting 50 mm (1.9 inches) higher than the standard model, with an approach angle of 40 degrees and a departure angle of 23.3 degrees.
Bold Design Changes
Visually, the Patrol Warrior stands out thanks to a host of rugged design enhancements. These include a new front bumper, black fender flares, side steps, a red bash plate, and Warrior decals. The bold exterior upgrades make it a formidable competitor against rivals like the Toyota Land Cruiser LC300.
One of the most appealing aspects of the Patrol is its 5.6-liter naturally-aspirated V8 engine. With the Land Cruiser no longer offering a V8, the Patrol Warrior holds a unique place in the market. Premcar has also equipped the Patrol Warrior with a bi-modal exhaust system featuring side-exit pipes, amplifying the engine’s already thrilling sound.
Outdated Interior, But Spacious
While the exterior of the Patrol Warrior has received numerous updates, the interior remains largely unchanged from the model introduced over a decade ago. This is especially noticeable in the 8.0-inch infotainment display, which feels dated by modern standards. Although it includes satellite navigation, it lacks the refinement and user-friendliness seen in newer vehicles. The lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is another drawback—though the 2024 update will address this.
Despite its dated design, the Patrol Warrior offers plenty of room for passengers, with seating for up to eight people. The second row is particularly spacious, and the third row, while compact, is still suitable for children or teenagers. Additionally, the seats fold down to provide an impressive 2,623 liters (92.6 cubic feet) of cargo space, making it a versatile choice for families and adventure seekers.
On-Road Performance and Driving Impressions
During our time with the Patrol Warrior, we were unable to test its off-road capabilities but found it to be extremely comfortable on the road. The 5.6-liter V8 engine produces 298 kW (400 hp) and 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque, offering plenty of power for daily driving and highway cruising. The new bi-modal exhaust system enhances the driving experience with a thunderous V8 soundtrack that truly sets it apart.
That said, the Patrol Warrior’s weight of 2,884 kg (6,358 lbs) and its powerful engine contribute to less-than-ideal fuel efficiency. Nissan estimates a fuel consumption of 14.4 l/100 km (16.3 mpg), but during our testing, we averaged 16.5 l/100 km (14.2 mpg).
Despite its size and age, the Patrol Warrior remains smooth and compliant on the road, though it can feel a bit floaty at higher speeds. The seven-speed automatic transmission is a bit slow between shifts but is reliable and consistent.
Tech Features and Safety
The Patrol Warrior comes well-equipped with essential features, including radar cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a rear differential lock. Other standard features include tri-zone climate control, leather upholstery, a six-speaker sound system, and a tire pressure monitoring system.
In response to previous critiques, Nissan Australia has introduced an aftermarket head unit for the 2024 models that will support both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making the tech more modern and user-friendly.
Final Thoughts: A Timeless Off-Roader
Despite its age, the Nissan Patrol Warrior offers plenty of appeal, especially for off-road enthusiasts and those needing a capable family SUV. With Premcar’s performance upgrades, it becomes a compelling option for those seeking power, comfort, and ruggedness in one package.
If you’re in the market for an eight-seater SUV that can conquer rough terrain and provide a thrilling driving experience, the Patrol Warrior is worth considering. Keep an eye out for the 2024 model, which brings key updates that address some of the current model’s limitations.
Explore more about the Nissan Patrol Warrior on Nissan Australia’s official site.
