2023 Nissan Patrol Warrior Review: Unleashing the Beast
Welcome to our in-depth review of the highly anticipated 2023 Nissan Patrol Warrior. As one of the most iconic off-road vehicles in the world, the Patrol has been a symbol of power and capability since its inception. With the release of the Warrior edition, Nissan takes the Patrol to a whole new level, offering enthusiasts and adventurers an even more rugged and capable off-road experience. In this blog post, we will dive into the details of the 2023 Nissan Patrol Warrior, exploring its design, performance, technology, and off-road capabilities. Get ready to unleash the beast!
The 2023 Nissan Patrol Warrior has received an exclusive makeover for the Australian market, and it’s quite impressive.
Similar to the Nissan Navara Warrior that came before it, the Patrol Warrior has been customized by automotive specialist Premcar.
In a time when the number of cylinders in cars is decreasing, making V8s a rare find in the new car market, classic V8 engines like the one in the Nissan Patrol stand out among the downsized engines dominating the industry.
We had the opportunity to test drive a pre-production model of the upcoming Patrol Warrior.
We do not have information about pricing, and the exact specifications may change before the vehicle is released. However, what we have here gives us a strong indication of what will soon be available at Nissan showrooms.
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Contents
- 1 Nissan Patrol Warrior Introduction
- 2 Nissan Patrol Warrior Performance
- 3 Nissan Patrol Warrior Pricing & Specifications
- 4 Nissan Patrol Warrior Design
- 5 Nissan Patrol Warrior Interior Comfort and Technology
- 6 Safety Features
- 7 Fuel Efficiency
- 8 Off-Road
- 9 On The Road
- 10 Nissan Patrol Warrior Suspension
- 11 Why did they create the Nissan Patrol Warrior?
- 12 What is different about the Nissan Patrol Warrior?
- 13 FAQ Nissan Patrol
- 14 Summary
Nissan Patrol Warrior Introduction
There have been rumors, speculation, and even teasers from Nissan, but the 2023 Nissan Patrol Warrior is finally here. Engineered and designed partly in Australia by Premkar, this vehicle is similar to the Nissan Navara Warrior. It has the potential to be more desirable than the mighty 300 series Land Cruiser, despite being an older vehicle. We have a pre-production model for review, so we can’t drive it on public roads. However, we will take it off-road and on-road to see how it performs. Let’s take a closer look.
Nissan Patrol Warrior Performance
Under the hood, the 2023 Nissan Patrol Warrior packs a punch. Powered by a formidable 5.6-liter V8 engine, it delivers an impressive 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. This power is further enhanced by a seven-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and effortless gear changes. Whether you’re tackling rough terrains or cruising on the highway, the Patrol Warrior’s performance will not disappoint. It effortlessly accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds, making it one of the fastest SUVs in its class.
Nissan Patrol Warrior Pricing & Specifications
The 2023 Nissan Patrol Warrior is expected to hit the markets in [insert month and year]. While pricing details are yet to be announced, it is anticipated to be in line with other high-performance SUVs in its segment. Keep an eye out for the official release and pricing information from Nissan dealerships near you.
The pricing for the Nissan Patrol Warrior in Australia is yet to be announced, but it is based on the ti model grade, which starts from $82,160 before on-road costs. Similar to the Nissan Navara Warrior, this Patrol model features modifications and changes to the wheels, tires, suspension, as well as exterior and interior upgrades. The hydraulic body motion control system, unique to Nissan, has been retained with modifications to the dampers. The wheels and tires have also been given attention, with 18-inch alloy wheels designed by Premkar and wrapped in Yokohama geolander truck tires.
Nissan Patrol Warrior Design
The 2023 Nissan Patrol Warrior boasts a bold and aggressive design that sets it apart from its predecessors. The front fascia features a rugged grille with a prominent Nissan emblem, flanked by sleek LED headlights. The muscular hood adds to its commanding presence on the road, while the flared wheel arches and side steps enhance its rugged appeal. At the rear, you’ll find stylish LED taillights and a sporty bumper that completes the Warrior’s robust look. With its imposing stance and attention to detail, the Patrol Warrior is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.
The Patrol Warrior features 18-inch alloy wheels designed specifically for this model, wrapped in Yokohama geolander tires. These LT tires are stronger and more resistant to punctures compared to standard tires. With a diameter of around 34.5 inches, they provide a significant increase in ground clearance.
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Additionally, the Patrol Warrior retains the 5.6-liter naturally aspirated petrol V8 engine that delivers 298 kilowatts and 560 newton meters of torque. It is paired with a seven-speed automated gearbox and a permanent four-wheel drive system. The vehicle also includes a side exit exhaust with a biomodal system that allows for different sound profiles depending on driving conditions.
Nissan Patrol Warrior Interior Comfort and Technology
The interior of the Nissan Patrol Warrior has been slightly refreshed compared to the standard model. The wood treatment on the dashboard has been replaced with piano black materials, giving it a more modern look. However, the infotainment display is outdated and lacks features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. On a positive note, the Alcantara material used on the dashboard and doors adds a touch of luxury. The interior is spacious and comfortable, with seating for eight people.
Step inside the 2023 Nissan Patrol Warrior, and you’ll find a spacious and luxurious cabin designed with utmost comfort in mind. The premium leather seats provide excellent support, even during long journeys. The dual-zone automatic climate control system ensures that every occupant stays comfortable, regardless of the weather conditions outside.
The Patrol Warrior also boasts an array of advanced technology features, including a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium sound system. With its intuitive interface and user-friendly controls, staying connected and entertained on the go has never been easier.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount, and the 2023 Nissan Patrol Warrior does not disappoint in this aspect. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect you and your passengers on every journey.
The Warrior edition includes advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. Additionally, the Patrol Warrior features a surround-view camera system, making parking and navigating tight spaces effortless.
Fuel Efficiency
Considering its size and power, one might assume that the 2023 Nissan Patrol Warrior would consume a significant amount of fuel. However, Nissan has made impressive strides in improving its fuel efficiency. The Patrol Warrior delivers an estimated 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway, which is quite impressive for a vehicle of its caliber. With its large fuel tank capacity, the Patrol Warrior offers an excellent range, allowing you to embark on long journeys without worrying about frequent refueling stops.
Off-Road
The Nissan Patrol Warrior performs exceptionally well off-road. Even in standard form, the Patrol is known for its off-road capabilities. With 50mm suspension and tire upgrades, the Warrior model enhances these capabilities further. The hydraulic body motion control system, combined with the increased ground clearance, provides stability and articulation over undulating terrain. The large tires offer excellent traction, and the powerful V8 engine delivers ample torque. However, the ride can be slightly rough and bouncy at times, which can be mitigated by adjusting tire pressures.
The true essence of the 2023 Nissan Patrol Warrior lies in its off-road capabilities. It comes equipped with a range of advanced features that make conquering even the toughest terrains a breeze. The intelligent All-Mode 4×4 system intelligently distributes power between the front and rear wheels, ensuring maximum traction on any surface. The Patrol Warrior also features a robust suspension system, allowing it to tackle obstacles with ease. With its impressive ground clearance and advanced off-road technologies like hill descent
On The Road
The suspension changes made by Premkar improve the on-road performance of the Patrol Warrior. However, there is still some body roll and understeer, making it less agile than a sports car. Nonetheless, the vehicle’s V8 engine produces a satisfying exhaust note, adding to the driving experience.
Nissan Patrol Warrior Suspension
The suspension modifications of a Nissan Patrol are an interesting subject and worth explaining because the suspension setup of a Patrol is far from ordinary. While having independent suspension all around is notable, it’s the Hydraulic Body Motion Control (HBMC) system that makes things intriguing.
Instead of relying on traditional anti-roll bars to control excessive body movement, the Patrol’s dampers are connected to a pressurized hydraulic system that channels into a central accumulator.
When the body wants to roll around a corner, the compression of the dampers pushes oil to the other side, working to limit body roll.
The advantage of not using anti-roll bars is that off-road articulation is less restricted. However, independent suspension all around won’t flex through ruts like an Instagram-ready GQ Patrol, so keep your expectations realistic.
Modifying such a system is no simple task. One cannot simply swap out or retune the shock absorbers, and adjusting the stiffness and size of the springs also presents challenges.
While some aftermarket companies offer lift kits for the HBMC-equipped Y62 Patrol, it’s safe to say that none are on par with this specially modified setup by Premcar.
Why did they create the Nissan Patrol Warrior?
When it was first introduced in 2010, the Y62 Nissan Patrol caused quite a stir. Not only did Nissan enter the market without offering a diesel engine option, which angered loyal customers, but it also positioned itself in a higher price range and more luxurious segment.
Perhaps, worst of all, there wasn’t a live axle in sight, which really got those sabers rattling.
And it’s fair to say that sales were slow in the beginning. Nissan’s pricing structure at the time didn’t compare well to the established arch-nemesis, the Toyota LandCruiser.
But in recent years, the tables have certainly turned. The Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series, now equipped with twin-turbocharged V6 diesel power, is struggling to meet market demand, while Nissan’s Patrol has been steadily increasing in appeal, appreciation, and sales figures.
It’s not cockies, open-cut miners, and hardcore desert dwellers buying the Y62 Patrols. Buyers are mostly from the suburbs and major regional centers – young families who want something that can do it all.
And the Patrol offers ample space and comfort without any drama, good towing and off-road capabilities, and a glorious (if subdued) V8 engine under that large hood.
And just like Nissan gave the Navara four-wheel-drive ute to the engineering team at Premcar for a Warrior-themed makeover, the big Patrol is ready for an aggressive transformation.
What is different about the Nissan Patrol Warrior?
The premise of the Patrol Warrior is the same as its ute sibling: to increase the range of capabilities offered, push the limits of off-road driving without compromising refinement, comfort, and towing capacity.
Unsurprisingly, the Patrol Warrior follows a similar recipe of upgrades: wheels, tires, suspension, bash plate, and some aesthetic updates.
There is no bullbar or light bar at the front, but the GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) of the Patrol Warrior has been increased by a helpful 130kg. This increase more than compensates for the 72kg increase in kerb weight, which mostly comes from the new wheel and tire package.
The tires have an overall diameter of 34.4 inches, making them some of the largest you’ll find on a showroom floor in Australia. After comparing various options, Premcar chose Yokohama Geolander GO15s in a 295/70 R18 size with heavy-duty light truck construction.
These tires are fitted on a new wheel design specifically made for the Patrol Warrior. The wheels are produced by the same Australian company that manufactures the wheels for the Navara Warrior. The exterior look is completed with fender flares made using an OEM-quality injection molding process.
It’s also worth noting that the Patrol Warrior is based on the lower-grade Ti model rather than the top-spec Ti-L. This choice was made to take advantage of the improved approach angle provided by the front bumper. However, buyers will have to forego some of the top-spec luxuries found in the Ti-L model, such as an upgraded 13-speaker sound system, a chilled center console, a digital rear-view mirror, and heated/vented front seats.
However, the Patrol Warrior still offers a range of specifications, including push-button start, tri-zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system.
The 5.6-litre petrol V8 engine, producing 298kW and 560Nm, remains unchanged for the Patrol Warrior. Premcar considered adding a supercharger from Harrop, but decided to keep the project simpler and more cost-effective.
Nevertheless, those who desire such an enhancement can still add whining noises if they wish.
For those curious, belt-driven forced induction can increase wheel horsepower by approximately 200, while a more aggressive setup (combined with supporting modifications) can extract over 1,000 horsepower from this V8.
Now, back to the point… The VK56 V8 benefits greatly from a new exhaust system that starts from the catalytic converter. This bi-modal system allows switching between a regular rear outlet for a quiet sound and an aggressive side-exit through twin square pipes.
The loud side exit activates when a certain threshold of speed, revs, and throttle input is reached. It also engages automatically when you shift the gear into manual mode.
FAQ Nissan Patrol
Is Nissan Patrol a good SUV?
How much are the Nissan Patrols?
How much is a top of the line Nissan Patrol?
| 2022 Nissan Patrol | Specs | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Ti (4×4) | Specs: 5.6L, Premium Unleaded Petrol, 7 SPEED AUTOMATIC | Price: $86,460 – $99,440 |
| Ti-L (4×4) | Specs: 5.6L, Premium Unleaded Petrol, 7 SPEED AUTOMATIC | Price: $94,600 – $108,790 |
How much is a Nissan Patrol top model in Australia?
What is the wait time for a Nissan Patrol?
| Model | Wait time |
|---|---|
| Patrol | 161 days |
| Qashqai | 57 days |
| X-Trail | 100 days |
| Z | N/A |
Summary
The Nissan Patrol Warrior is an appealing option for Australian consumers. It offers a combination of off-road capability, comfort, and spaciousness. While the interior may feel dated, the refreshed materials help to modernize it slightly. For those who appreciate V8 engines, this vehicle will be at the top of their list. Although lacking in certain tech features, it compensates with its engaging driving dynamics and powerful engine. Overall, the Nissan Patrol Warrior is a strong contender in the four-wheel-drive market.