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In the glittering metropolis of Dubai and across the sun-baked dunes of the UAE, one vehicle has long reigned supreme: the Nissan Patrol. For 2024, this venerable titan of the desert receives a much-needed tech upgrade, but does it still have what it takes to rule the roads of the Emirates? Let’s dive into what makes the latest Patrol a continued favourite among Emirati families and off-road enthusiasts alike.

The Heart of a Lion: V8 Power Unleashed

Under the expansive bonnet of the 2024 Nissan Patrol lies its beating heart – a naturally aspirated 5.6-liter V8 engine. In a world increasingly dominated by downsized turbocharged engines, the Patrol’s V8 stands as a defiant roar of tradition. Delivering 298kW of power and a meaty 560Nm of torque, this powerplant ensures the Patrol has more than enough muscle to conquer both city streets and treacherous dunes.

The engine’s character is perfectly suited to the UAE’s driving conditions. Whether you’re cruising along Sheikh Zayed Road or powering up the steep inclines of Jebel Jais, the V8’s linear power delivery and abundant torque make every journey effortless. The soundtrack isn’t half bad either – a deep, resonant growl that’s music to any petrolhead’s ears.

Tech Upgrade: Bringing the Desert King into the Digital Age

For 2024, Nissan has finally addressed one of the Patrol’s few weaknesses: its outdated infotainment system. The new 10.1-inch touchscreen is a welcome addition, bringing the Patrol’s interior firmly into the modern era. With wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now standard, connecting your smartphone is a breeze – perfect for navigating Dubai’s ever-changing road network or streaming your favorite Arabic pop tunes.

The addition of a wireless charging pad and USB-C ports further enhances the Patrol’s tech credentials. However, it’s worth noting that this upgrade comes at the cost of the previously available surround-view camera system – a feature that many Dubai drivers found useful when maneuvering this behemoth in tight urban spaces.

Comfort Fit for a Sheikh

Step inside the 2024 Patrol, and you’re greeted by an interior that could rival many luxury sedans. Plush leather seats, wood trim, and ample space in all three rows make this SUV a mobile majlis. The Patrol’s ride quality is exemplary, soaking up the worst of Dubai’s speed bumps and uneven desert tracks with equal aplomb.

For those long drives to Liwa or weekends in Ras Al Khaimah, the Patrol offers exceptional comfort. The second row is particularly spacious, while the third row, though slightly less accommodating, is still usable for adults on shorter trips.

Off-Road Prowess: From Mall to Moreeb Dune

While many Patrols in the UAE may never see more challenging terrain than a mall parking lot, this SUV’s off-road capabilities are legendary. With 323mm of ground clearance in the Warrior variant, intelligent 4WD system, and robust underbody protection, the Patrol is ready to tackle the most challenging desert expeditions.

During our test drive in the dunes outside Abu Dhabi, the Patrol’s off-road prowess was nothing short of impressive. It climbed steep sandy inclines with ease, its V8 engine providing the necessary grunt to power through soft sand. The intelligent 4WD system constantly adjusts power distribution, ensuring optimal traction in even the most challenging conditions.

Fuel Economy: The Price of Power

If there’s one area where the Patrol shows its age, it’s in fuel economy. With a claimed consumption of 14.4L/100km, it’s certainly thirsty by modern standards. However, in a region where fuel prices are less of a concern, this may not be a deal-breaker for many buyers. Plus, the 140-liter fuel tank ensures you won’t be making too many stops at the petrol station on those long desert drives.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The 2024 Patrol comes equipped with a suite of modern safety features, including adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, and lane departure warning. While it lacks some of the more advanced driver assistance features found in newer competitors, it still provides a good level of safety for family transport.

Verdict: Still King of the Desert?

The 2024 Nissan Patrol may be showing its age in some areas, but it remains a compelling option for UAE buyers. Its combination of powerful V8 engine, exceptional comfort, and genuine off-road ability is hard to beat. The new infotainment system addresses one of its major weaknesses, bringing it up to date in terms of connectivity.

For families needing a spacious, comfortable SUV that can handle both school runs and weekend desert adventures, the Patrol remains an excellent choice. Its legendary reliability and strong resale value in the UAE market are additional points in its favor.

While newer competitors may offer more advanced tech or better fuel economy, few can match the Patrol’s blend of luxury, capability, and presence. In the UAE, where tradition and capability are highly valued, the Nissan Patrol looks set to retain its crown as the king of the desert for some time to come.

Whether you’re a long-time Patrol fan or considering one for the first time, the 2024 model offers enough improvements to warrant a closer look. Just be prepared for some envious glances as you cruise down Jumeirah Beach Road in this automotive icon of the Emirates.