2026 Nissan Patrol PRO-4X

Exterior design

The Nissan Patrol PRO-4X is a mammoth by almost any measure. At 5,350 mm long with its pintle hook, 2,350 mm wide including the mirrors and 1,945 mm tall, it occupies serious road space, stretching beyond many full-size SUVs and luxury sedans. Most sedans and crossovers almost seem to bow in respect. Size does matter, especially when it gives the Patrol this much presence.

The dual-tone exterior adds visual drama, while the dark three-slot grille, inspired by Nissan’s Hardbody heritage, prominent Nissan badge and signature double-C-shaped LED headlights create an unmistakable face. A redesigned front bumper with a substantial skid plate and striking Lava Red tow hooks immediately announces the PRO-4X’s off-road intent. Its 20-inch machine-cut alloy wheels are wrapped in chunky all-terrain tyres, while black wheel-arch cladding, roof rails and side steps reinforce its rugged stance.

At the rear, vertical LED lamps, a slim light strip, roof spoiler, substantial bumper, tow equipment and a discreet exhaust outlet complete the purposeful look. It should appeal to off-road enthusiasts, large families and luxury-SUV buyers alike, combining genuine toughness with the kind of imposing presence that almost every customer can appreciate.

Interior design

Inside, the eight-seat Patrol PRO-4X is a veritable playground of space, with three genuinely usable rows and a commanding driving position that provides an excellent view of the road. Soft-touch surfaces cover much of the dashboard and doors, while Lava Red stitching and PRO-4X detailing add character.

The quilted leather-appointed seats look suitably premium and provide generous cushioning, with ample legroom in the first two rows. Ahead of the driver is a 28.6-inch Monolith Display, formed by two 14.3-inch screens, while the chunky steering wheel features clearly labelled, easy-to-read controls.

Google built-in integrates Google Assistant, Google Maps and apps from Google Play, while tri-zone climate control and biometric cooling help keep the large cabin comfortable. The 12-speaker Klipsch premium audio system produces powerful, clear sound and feels particularly well suited to the Patrol’s enormous cabin.

Voice control is useful in principle, although changing radio stations through spoken commands proved frustratingly slow. This became one of the more noticeable irritations during our drive.

Cargo capacity has increased by up to 30 per cent compared with the previous-generation Patrol, and folding the third row creates a broad, practical load floor.

Performance and capability

The Patrol PRO-4X pairs a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 producing 425 hp and 700 Nm with a nine-speed automatic and four-wheel drive. Despite its size and weight, it accelerates with impressive urgency, while the smooth, measured gearbox suits its relaxed character.

The commanding driving position offers excellent visibility, although its dimensions require care in tight spaces. High-speed stability is reassuringly good, and while some body roll is inevitable, the Patrol holds its line through corners surprisingly well. Ride comfort is excellent, the cabin remains quiet and the adaptive air suspension works with e-Damper technology to balance control with comfort.

Its off-road hardware includes all-terrain tyres, underbody protection, a locking rear differential and six drive modes: Standard, Eco, Sport, Sand, Mud and Rock. The air suspension can also raise the body for additional ground clearance.

Our drive covered unpaved parking areas and light trails rather than serious off-roading. Even so, the PRO-4X felt assured over ruts and uneven surfaces, though a tougher desert test would be needed to assess its full capability.

Fuel economy was less impressive, with the trip computer averaging well under 8 km/l during our drive. The 97-litre tank should provide a reasonable range, although filling it will not be inexpensive.

First-drive verdict

The 2026 Nissan Patrol PRO-4X was, is and will probably remain the ship of the desert. As Nissan continues to refine it, the PRO-4X makes as convincing a case as any variant for being the rugged sweet spot of the Patrol range. It combines enormous space, strong performance, excellent ride comfort and unmistakable road presence with meaningful off-road hardware.

There is some body roll, fuel economy is unlikely to impress, and while the infotainment system is intuitive, the voice controls lack responsiveness. The AED 362,900 starting price is also substantial. Nevertheless, I can confidently say that I am an even greater fan of the Patrol now than I was before, and I look forward to taking it out for a comprehensive road-test review.