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Nissan Patrol GR 4x4 3.0 TD Aventura

For:
Great off-road, and strong enough to tow your house

Against:
Lacklustre drive on Tarmac; slow; unrefined engine



Performance

The only engine, a 3.0-litre turbodiesel, has a strong 280lb ft of pulling power at just 2000rpm, but it faces a tough task hauling well over two tonnes of 4x4. Overtaking requires a long, straight road and plenty of forward planning, while the optional auto gearbox saps even more go. However, there's enough muscle to tow 3.5 tonnes.

Ride & handling

The Patrol is a strong off-road performer. With a low-ratio transfer 'box and locking rear differential, it's one of the best genuine mud-pluggers. The drawback is that it's less strong on-road. There's lots of body roll in corners and the suspension thumps uncomfortably into bigger bumps.

Refinement

Although wind and road noise is reasonably well suppressed, the diesel engine always needs to be worked hard to make any sort of decent progress, and it's far noisier than the six-cylinder powerplants fitted to some rivals. The 3.0-litre four-cylinder engine always sounds gruff, even at motorway speeds.

Buying & owning

Looking at sheer space, equipment and off-road ability, the Patrol seems like a lot of metal for the money. Group 14 insurance is fair and the residual values are respectable, but in other respects, the Patrol looks quite dear. Its 26mpg is bettered by several rivals, as are its carbon dioxide emissions for company car tax and cost-per-mile figures.

Quality & reliability

Everywhere you look, you'll see trim that is designed with endurance as a priority. The Patrol will benefit from Nissan's fine reputation for reliability, as long as it is regularly serviced and not abused off-road.

Safety & security

There are twin front airbags on the entry-level model, but only the range-topping Aventura model has side airbags. Both models have remote central locking, an alarm and deadlocks to stop thieves breaking a window and then opening the door. Locking wheelnuts are fitted to the Aventura.

Behind the wheel

Sitting in the lofty driver's seat, there's no doubt you're in a solid workhorse built for sturdiness. However, comfort is acceptable, aided by a height-adjustable seat and steering wheel on all models. The latest model has a classier dash than before, and the interior feels strong enough to survive a tough life.

Space & practicality

There's plenty of room in the five-door Patrol. It's longer than most executive cars, offers excellent accommodation for both passengers and luggage and provides good access. Both models have split/folding rear seats, and the Aventura has room for seven.

Equipment

The base-level Trek car get basics like four powered windows, air-conditioning and a CD player, while the Aventura versions have a far more luxurious spec. You'll get alloy wheels, privacy glass, fog lamps, electric sunroof, front side airbags, sat-nav, climate control and heated leather seats that move electrically.

Running Costs

Town mpg

19.8

Out of Town mpg

32.1

Average mpg

26.2

Tank Capacity (gallons)

18.9

CO2 Rating (g/km)

288

Insurance Group

15

Typical Insurance Quote

£610

% Value Retained (3yrs/36,000mls)

35

Typical Contract Hire Rate (pcm)

£609

Pence Per Mile

73.29

Servicing Cost over 3yrs

£1558

Servicing Intervals

9,000

Manufacturers Warranty

3yr/60k + 3yr Paint + 6yr Perforation + 1yr Breakdown

Performance & Measurements

Body type

4X4

Number of Doors

5

Number of Seats

7

Engine (cc/type)

2953/4

Fuel Type

Diesel

Max Power (bhp/rpm)

158/3600

Engine Position

F

Driven Wheels

Four

Length (mm)

5140

Width (mm)

1940

Height (mm)

1855

Boot Space (min ltr)

183

Boot Space (max ltr)

2226

Turning Circle (m)

12.2

Towing Weight(kg)

3500

Kerb Weight (kg)

2495

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