The Nissan Patrol Super Safari is a car that, at first glance, seems so popular and well-known that reviewing it might feel redundant. But, I decided to delve into its details to show you how simple yet effective this car is, especially for those who want a no-nonsense, rugged off-road vehicle. So, let’s dive into the details of the Nissan Patrol Super Safari VTC 4800.
Design and Features:-
Starting at the front, the Patrol has a shiny chrome grille with the classic Nissan badge. Below, there’s a big bumper ready for off-roading, with a skid plate. The open vents help cool the 4.8-liter V6 engine. The headlights are simple halogen, including the turn signals and fog lights. There’s also a towing hook for pulling other vehicles or yourself if needed.
Profile and Wheels:-
On the sides, the Patrol has 17-inch alloy rims in black and chrome. The fender arches are gray, adding to its tough look. The gap in the suspension shows it has lots of travel. The sideboards are fixed, simple, and useful. Decals on the sides say “Super Safari” and “4800 VTC,” hinting at its powerful engine. The side mirrors can be adjusted with a button but not folded in automatically, adding to its old-school charm. The antenna is manually adjustable, which is quite nostalgic.
Design:-
At the back, the simple design continues with halogen taillights. The bumper is big and gray, with another towing hook. The “Super Safari” and “Nissan Patrol” badges are clear, and the spare wheel is on the rear door for easy access. This setup is much simpler than modern underbody mounts. The boot door opens in two parts, and inside, the third row of seats folds down by hand, giving you decent cargo space.
Interior Overview:-
Inside, the Patrol feels like a trip back in time. The dashboard is hard plastic with some soft-touch material. The steering wheel is large and covered in leather, with buttons for cruise control and media. The driver’s display is all analog, with traditional dials for the odometer, rev counter, and speedometer. There’s a single button to switch between trip information.
Air Conditioning and Infotainment:-
The air conditioning is basic but works well, with three dials to control temperature, fan speed, and airflow direction. It’s a single-zone system in the front, with separate controls for the rear passengers. The infotainment screen is small and simple but includes Bluetooth, USB, aux input, and wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The audio system is basic, meaning fewer distractions while driving.
Storage and Comfort:-
There are lots of storage spaces, with large door bins and several small pockets throughout the cabin. The center armrest has a cooled box for drinks, activated by a button. The car has two fuel tanks: a main 93-liter tank and a secondary 40-liter tank, giving extra range for long trips. The seats are tan leather, broad, and comfortable for long journeys. The driver and front passenger seats are electronically adjustable, with manual lumbar support for the driver.
Second and Third Row:-
The second row of seats is comfortable but sits low, which might reduce thigh support. They can slide forward to give more space for the third-row passengers. The third row is best for short trips or occasional use, as it’s quite low and not very spacious. There are cup holders and air conditioning vents for both rows, making it more comfortable for passengers.
Off-Road Performance:-
The Patrol Super Safari is made for off-roading. It has a 4.8-liter six-cylinder engine that makes 280 horsepower and 451 Nm of torque. It comes with a five-speed automatic transmission. The car has two gear levers: one for shifting gears and another for switching between two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, and low range. It also has a differential lock for tough terrains.
Driving Experience:-
Driving the Patrol on regular roads can be a bit of a workout, especially with its hydraulic steering. The steering needs several turns from lock to lock, making it tricky to maneuver. However, visibility is excellent due to the large windows and high driving position. It feels like driving a bus, giving you a commanding view of the road.
Nissan Patrol Super Safari is a tough, simple, and durable vehicle that is great for off-roading. Its straightforward design and lack of modern features give it a nostalgic feel. Despite its simplicity, it offers enough comfort and modern touches to be practical for daily use and long trips. If you love off-roading and want a car that takes you back in time, the Patrol Super Safari is worth considering.
Variants and Specifications
Feature | Nissan Patrol Super Safari |
---|---|
Engine | 4.8L V6 |
Power | 280 HP |
Torque | 451 Nm |
Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
Drive Type | 4WD |
Ground Clearance | High |
Wheel Size | 17-inch |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 93L + 40L (sub-tank) |
Seating Capacity | 7 |
Air Conditioning | Dual-zone |
Infotainment | Basic with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay |
Safety | Basic features |
Off-Road Capabilities | Excellent |
Interior Comfort | Good |
Cargo Space | Moderate with third row folded |