June 2000 Volume 81 Number 6 "serving the protectors"
Motoring
By Jim Barnett

New Patrol Engine a Hi-tech Highlight

hen the going gets tough, Nissan’s new GU Series II Patrol is one of the best in the business. It may look much the same as its predecessor, but its new, high-tech, four-cylinder intercooled turbo-diesel engine is a highlight.

Released last April and code-named ZD30, the new 3.0-litre direct injection engine features double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and a high-pressure injection pump. Nissan claims its new M-Fire combustion system substantially reduces nitrogen oxide emissions and black exhaust smoke.

The new oil burner churns out 116kW of power at 3,600rpm and 354Nm of torque at 2,000rpm. This equates to 22 per cent more power and 40 per cent more torque than the superseded 2.8-litre, six-cylinder turbo-diesel.

The 3.0-litre produces slightly more power and torque than the 4.2-litre turbo-diesel, and similar torque to the big 4.5-litre petrol engine. These are the only three engines available. The two larger engines have been carried over unchanged from the previous model.

Patrol offers an optional automatic transmission. Although the new engine is available in base DX guise, the auto-diesel combination is only available in the mid-range ST at a $2,800 premium.

Patrol sports a new grille and three new colours. Inside, the front seats and headrests are more comfortable, with new fabrics on DX and ST. Height adjustment and lumbar support have been introduced to the driver’s seat on ST, while DX comes with rear headrests and driver’s footrest.

Safety is enhanced with a driver’s airbag now standard on both DX and ST. A front-passenger airbag and ABS are optional on ST, while side-impact airbags are standard on Ti models. Keyless remote entry with “lights flash” recognition is a feature on ST and Ti.

Patrol’s interior is excellent. Although its seating is designed for seven, the ST really has six individual seats which all offer a recline function, headrest and lap-sash seat belt.

The latest ST diesel auto impressed during a recent Police Journal test drive. This big off-road machine’s new engine was smooth and powerful. The four-speed auto is well matched and offers smooth up and down shifts. The transmission masks any turbo-lag, enabling this heavy vehicle to accelerate from traffic lights with surprising speed.

Probably due to its direct injection, the engine sounds a little rattly at idle when one listens to it from outside the vehicle. But from inside, the engine is rarely heard except when pushed hard from standstill. It pulls very well, cruises effortlessly and has plenty of torque to shift Patrol’s two-and-a-quarter tonne up hills.

At 110km/h, the new diesel spins at 2,600rpm, but little engine, wind or road noise is heard from the cabin. Its size and weight considered, it corners well and has good steering and brake response. This vehicle handles both loose and rough surfaces with ease and, on dirt, inspires driver confidence.

It retains the same part-time four-wheel-drive system, with high-low transfer case and auto-locking front hubs. While not as sophisticated as some, it is simple to use and performs well. Its off-road performance is enhanced by good wheel articulation, generous ground clearance, approach and departure angles.

With low-range selected - and the auto locked in first gear - the vehicle confidently made its way up a very steep track during testing. On the descent, the auto’s engine braking ability was good, although light brake applications were necessary to maintain the required speed.

The introduction of an auto diesel is bound to give Patrol wider appeal. For the sceptics, the new engine out-guns the old 2.8-litre and should be cheaper to run register.

Prices range from $44,790 (DX manual diesel). The popular ST diesel begins at $48,990 and is one of the best value 4x4s available.

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