Nissan Patrol 3.0Di S

By Craig Cheetham

June 2003

Coming in at ΂£1,000 less than the Defender XS, the Patrol offers excellent kit and comfort compared to the Land Rover. The impressive standard equipment list includes air-conditioning, remote central locking, a decent CD changer system and twin airbags. The Nissan has a bonus under the bonnet, too - its engine boasts 156bhp, compared to the Defender's 127bhp.

On the road, the Patrol is surprisingly refined. The powerplant is fairly quiet at cruising speeds, while the ride is supple and stable at speed. That said, the car is still fairly agricultural to drive. Its sheer bulk takes some getting used to, and the five-speed manual gearbox needs a persuasive touch.

Unfortunately, the steering is vague and tends to wander, especially if fitted with the optional all-terrain tyres found on our test model. Overall, though, the Patrol is a sensible compromise. The cabin is spacious and very well laid out, offering much more comfort than a Defender, while the third-row bench will accommodate two adults in reasonable comfort, making the Nissan a genuine seven-seater.

Throw in amazing off-road ability and enough presence to match a Range Rover, and the entry-level Patrol makes incredibly good sense.

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