The Nissan Patrol has forged itself as a seriously capable contender in the 4WD culture and segment across its years. With an audaciously indestructible presence, go-anywhere ability, and surefire performance, its no wonder the Patrol has become the favourite among those with a penchant for serious offroad antics.

Historically the Patrol has proven itself consistently; perhaps most notably the original G60 was the first car to cross the Simpson Desert in the 60s. Since then, 150,000 units have been sold Down Under alone.

Equipped with a solid 5.6-litre V8 engine, seven speed auto transmission, and countless bells and whistles, the new model is certainly on par with its successful predecessors. The all-new Y62 is already being sold in various middle-east regions, however Patrol enthusiasts Down Under will have to sit it out until 2012.

The updated icon is not for the lighthearted – it exemplifies the makings of a “real man” and mirrors that timeless Aussie battler philosophy underpinned by the 4WD culture. This offroad-savvy beast has a hefty 298kW output and 55Nm of torque and is perfect for long distant driving with the whole family.

Jump inside and the changes are staggering. Whether its the white leather seats and steering wheel, the high-quality soft touch plastics or polished aluminium accents, the luxury ambience of the cabin is enough to throw you off guard. You might even start questioning whether you are actually driving a high-end Lexus. The seats are comfortable, there’s plenty of room, even in the rear, and there’s that handy third-row of seats. The third row is obviously less spacious, but it allows for more passengers. Front and centre is a huge LCD screen, while at the rear we find two 7-inch screens. They can all play from different sources, thus movies and on-board computers can all be simultaneously enjoyed and operated. The onboard computer integrates all the handy bits and bobs, including SAT-NAV, fuel usage, stat display, etc. Most notably, the tyre pressure monitoring system actually assists drivers when filling the tyres with air, notifying you once desired pressure is reached. Pretty snazzy.

The Y62 also deviates in terms of its platform and chassis – the result being its doubly as laterally rigid.

Acceleration is enthusiastic and aggressive, yet manageable. Push the pedal a little harder and expect a masculine growl, a.k.a. audible nirvana for the leadfooted enthusiasts out there.

Performance is solid, and so is kerb weight – she weights in at a hefty 2,785 kilograms. Nonetheless, she corners exceptionally, is responsive, and steers consistently. Its hard to fault her. There is no jerky behaviour during gearshifts, and there is even an additional gear for those who wish to curb fuel usage. Official fuel usage figures have not yet been released, however its rumoured she sips around 14L/100km from her 100L fuel tank (or optional 140L tank).

An interesting addition worth noting is the Hydraulic Body Motion Control System, which assists with cornering stability, overtaking, and off-road driving.

According to Nissan Australia spokespeople, the new Patrol will arrive on Aussie shores in early 2012.

Other techy features include:
- Hill Start Assist
- Hill Descent Control
- 4-piston opposed brake calliper setup
- Lane Departure Warning and Prevention
- Intelligent Cruise control
- Distance Control Assist
- Forward Collision Warning System
- Vehicle Dynamic Control
- Traction Control
- Brake Limited Slip Differential
- Intelligent Brake Assist
- 6 air bags