Nissan Patrol - Pictures

With its cheap materials, there is little sophistication in the cabin, and it lacks the Defender’s robustness. It’s dull rather than offensive, while the aftermarket-style stereo is tacky and the diff-lock switch flimsy.

Nissan's 3.0-litre unit is bigger than the Land Rover’s unit, yet it’s crude and lacks refinement. The slack and poorly geared five-speed transmission doesn’t help, although there is enough power in off-road situation

Thanks to its massive 2,287-litre capacity, the Patrol is the superior load-lugger here. A split opening eases access to the boot, and the deep wide area features few intrusions, while the seats fold easily.

for even more axle articulation on rough terrain, the Patrol’s rear stabiliser bar can be disengaged at up to 15mph. On road, it doesn’t do enough to stop the body leaning.

The Nissan’s split rear doors should make it easier to get access to the boot in constricted spaces. However, we found them fiddly to use, and the bulky hinges hampered loading. As there’s a wiper on only one window, rear v