Saturday, Aug 21, 2004 at 01:50
Hi Guys,
Have a look at this www.autoexpress.co.uk and type nissan patrol in the search box and you will see an article dated 5th August. Here is the text but no pictures.
Revised Patrol Shows Its Face
The big secret is out on Patrol. Thanks to our worldwide network of contacts, this is an exclusive first official picture of Nissan's revised flagship off-roader.
It will be unveiled in the metal at France's Val d'Isere International 4x4 Exhibition later this month, before making its way to the Paris Motor Show in September.
As our photo reveals, the external bodywork has been only lightly modified, but the new look was inspired by the Dunehawk concept first shown at last year's Frankfurt event (bottom image). There are redesigned headlights at the front to give a more modern finish, while the wheelarches have also been revamped.
Changes to the interior will be far more extensive, ending some of the criticism of the current model. Expect a fresh finish for the dashboard, plus extra creature comforts to add refinement to one of the most hardcore off-roaders on the market. While the Patrol's traditional rival has always been Toyota's Land Cruiser, the revised model will also have to fight off competition from the all-new Land Rover Discovery.
Under the skin, there's little in the way of change, although the 3.0-litre diesel engine has been upgraded to produce more torque. That should improve the Patrol's already formidable off-road abilities, but the lack of alterations to the chassis and
suspension could see the big Nissan left standing on the tarmac by newer rivals. Official prices are still under wraps, but buyers should expect a rise of £300-£1,300, depending on spec. This means the entry-level car will cost around £25,000 when it goes on sale here in October.
The newcomer will strengthen the company's 4x4 line-up, which will soon consist of seven models. For real mud-plugging fans, Nissan will offer the Patrol, the smaller Terrano II and the Navara pick-up. Buyers seeking a more road-friendly car will eventually have the option of the Murano and Qashqai SUVs. The range is completed by two vehicles that offer a compromise between on and off-tarmac performance - the critically acclaimed X-Trail and the Pathfinder, due in 2006.
Its out of a magazine we get in the UK, does not add much to what we know. I spoke to Nissan last week and they said they would send a brochure out soon. The guy would not give me details of the changes to the engine but did say the interior is different and you will get more for your money. When I get the brochure I will scan it in if anybody wants a look.
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73471
Follow Up By: Michael - Saturday, Aug 21, 2004 at 19:18
Saturday, Aug 21, 2004 at 19:18
Forget the creature comforts and the triple chrome plated dust caps..... i want some more BLOODY leg room........
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333655
Follow Up By: scottcamp - Saturday, Aug 21, 2004 at 19:51
Saturday, Aug 21, 2004 at 19:51
Hi Michael,
Do you find the leg room in the rear too small or the front? I am 6' 3'' and find the front leg room ok. But then again my other car is a 110 Defender and the seating position is a joke.
FollowupID:
333656
Follow Up By: Michael - Sunday, Aug 22, 2004 at 13:42
Sunday, Aug 22, 2004 at 13:42
Hi, Scott, Yes i'm cramped, driving position, cant say i've actually been in the back. In my younger days i spent a little time in the back
seat LOL. i actually, mentioned this in reply to your post today.. regards Michael
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333683