POWER, PERFORMANCE, PRECISION
New Nissan Patrol
Nissan has recently launched the seventh-generation Patrol in Abu Dhabi, marking a new chapter for the iconic nameplate. The latest Patrol introduces groundbreaking advancements – including a new design, a powerful V6 twin-turbo engine, a nine-speed automatic transmission, adaptive air suspension for enhanced all-terrain capability, plus intuitive technologies including NissanConnect 2.0, ProPILOT Assist, and a Klipsch premium audio system for an exceptional and comfortable driving experience.
As an icon built for adventure, the new Patrol’s premium design aesthetic elevates its road presence, with a captivating visual impact that bridges the brand’s heritage with a forward-thinking vision. The exterior styling enhances its distinctive silhouette while exuding a sense of strength and durability.
The signature V-motion grille is now wider and more integrated into the body. It is flanked by enhanced double C-shaped headlights featuring adaptive driving beam (ADB) technology. The rear façade complements the front grille with a full-width light bar, and the Patrol’s formidable stance is accentuated by available 22” alloy wheels.
The new Patrol is available in seven exterior colours, developed to enhance its dynamic appearance. Four vibrant two-tone options have been added to the colour palette, and a puddle light has been introduced that illuminates a motif featuring the iconic Nissan Patrol silhouette and the text “Since 1951”, signifying the SUV’s production history.
As the most potent Patrol to date, it sets new standards in performance. Its new 3.5-litre V6 twin-turbo engine, delivering an impressive 313 kW and 700 Nm of torque, marks a momentous shift from the outgoing V8 – with power increased by 7% and torque boosted by 25%, along with enhanced fuel efficiency. Also available is a 3.8-litre naturally aspirated V6 engine, producing 232 kW and 386 Nm of torque.
Power is transferred to the road via a nine-speed automatic transmission, and the dynamic suspension leverages e-damper technology to adjust damper settings automatically according to driving conditions. The adaptive air suspension system is standard, allowing for adjustable ride height and effortless on-road cruising and off-road performance. Six drive modes – standard, sand, rock, mud/rut, eco and sport – are available, and a new 4WD transfer mode interlock system, a first for Nissan, allows drivers to switch between modes seamlessly.
The new Patrol boasts an expansive cabin with a standard panoramic sunroof.
JAPANESE INTERIOR LUXURY
The refreshed interior features exquisitely quilted leather seats with detailing inspired by the traditional Japanese woodcraft, Kumiko. On selected trims, the seats feature massage functionality and eight-way adjustment, striking a perfect balance of cushioning and ergonomic support to deliver exceptional comfort.
An advanced infotainment system, anchored by a striking 28.6” horizontal Monolith display, features twin 14.3” displays that provide a comprehensive view of navigation, entertainment, and vehicle information. Rear-seat passengers are also catered for with optional dual 12.8” screens, supporting entertainment on the go via Miracast, HDMI, or USB inputs.
Complementing the visual experience is a 64-colour ambient lighting system with customisable live backgrounds, and the 12-speaker Klipsch Premium Audio surround sound system delivers an exceptional audio experience. This system delivers an immersive, crystal-clear soundscape that integrates seamlessly into the Patrol’s interior.
The Patrol also offers Biometric Cooling technology. When activated, an infrared sensor detects the body temperature of front-seat passengers and second-row occupants and adjusts airflow settings accordingly to provide an intuitive cooling experience. Enhancing the cabin’s appeal is class-leading roominess and increased cargo space, offering up to 30% more room than previous models.
LAST WORD
All-round safety is further assured with a comprehensive safety package featuring seven airbags and, for the very first time, knee airbags. The new Patrol will be available at Nissan’s partner network across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and the wider Middle East region starting in November and will most likely arrive in South Africa in early 2025.
STYLISH, COMPACT, AFFORDABLE
Chery Tiggo Cross
After its South African premiere at the recent 2024 Festival of Motoring in Gauteng, Chery South Africa has announced that the new Tiggo Cross is scheduled for local introduction before the end of the year, bringing a stylish new exterior design and fresh technology to the country’s highly competitive compact SUV segment.
Known as the Tiggo 4 overseas, the updated, feature-packed newcomer is set to slot in between the popular Tiggo 4 Pro and the strong-selling Tiggo 7 Pro in November 2024, further supplementing Chery’s already robust presence in this vital part of the market.
Set to be backed by Chery’s industry-leading 10-year/1-million-kilometre engine warranty as well as a comprehensive 5-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty (and roadside assistance for a full five years), the new Tiggo Cross has a modern exterior design that incorporates the brand’s latest family face courtesy of features such as a bold diamond-patterned grille and slim, attention-grabbing LED headlights.
Inside the new Tiggo Cross, customers can expect to find a similar blend of modern aesthetics and user-centred functionality, with the sophisticated and spacious cabin playing host to an impressive array of technological, convenience and safety features.
While Chery did not release any details, it is expected that the Tiggo Cross will come standard with a big 10.25” infotainment touchscreen with wireless and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a steering wheel with tilt and reach adjustment, and unlike other Chery vehicles, toggle switches to control the dual-zone air conditioning.
Piano key-style switches are also available under the touchscreen for volume, drive mode selection, the 360-degree camera (Ultimate only), and other functions. Its 380-litre boot is also spacious for a compact SUV, with an LED light inside, a space-saver spare wheel, and 60:40 split-folding rear seats for more room.
Chery has not yet released any powertrain or model trim line details, but it is expected that the Tiggo Cross will be powered by the brand’s well-known 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, delivering 108 kW of power and 210 Nm of torque. Overseas, the motor drives the front wheels through a CVT system, but whether this will be the case in South Africa remains to be seen.
MOST POWERFUL GT PONY YET
New Ford Mustang
Ford will soon be launching the new seventh-generation Mustang in South Africa, continuing the 60-year legacy of the American icon by delivering the looks, sound and appeal of the world’s best-selling sports coupe with even bolder styling, an advanced interior, enhanced performance and an engaging driving experience.
As the most exciting and visceral version yet, from its fighter jet-inspired digital cockpit to the advanced 5.0-litre V8 engine and its edgier yet timeless exterior design, the latest Mustang adds another exciting chapter to the legendary nameplate. Locally, the new Mustang will be launched in GT Fastback guise with the 5.0L V8 and 10-speed automatic transmission only, followed in the fourth quarter by the first-ever Mustang Dark Horse.
The seventh generation Mustang GT adds modern chiselled looks to its heritage-inspired design. The low, horizontal brow across the front emphasises overall frontal width, while the upper grille design shape is influenced by the original 1960s design. The Tri-Bar LED headlamps continue the Mustang’s classic lighting signature.
Its sleek roofline, broad sprinting stance and shortened rear overhang are also true to the authentic proportions of the first generation, while the widened rear haunches point to the power over the wheels in true Mustang style. The large, aggressive grille openings reflect the enhanced performance of the most powerful 5.0-litre Coyote V8 offered in a Mustang GT.
Aerodynamics are further optimised by adding new hood vents, a redesigned front splitter and a race-inspired rear diffuser for improved aerodynamic balance. The roofline is optimised for easier driver entry and exit, and an extended rear deck houses new crisp signature tri-bar lighting, a Mustang design hallmark.
The new Mustang has the most technologically advanced, driver-centric cockpit of any Mustang to date. The 12.4” digital instrument cluster displays different animated designs and new Drive Mode-dependent visuals. The default instrument gauge setting now has an ultra-modern, copper appearance theme shared with the Mustang Mach-E.
The digital instrument cluster can be configured to flow seamlessly into a 13.2” SYNC 4 centre stack behind a single piece of integrated glass angled toward the driver, and beyond the screen is a new flat-bottomed steering wheel. The full leather seats with Black Onyx trim incorporate heating and cooling functions, accent stitching and a unique upholstery perforation. A premium B&O sound system with 12 speakers, including a subwoofer, is standard.
The Mustang GT is powered by a fourth-generation naturally aspirated 5.0-litre Coyote V8 engine, and thanks to an innovative dual air intake box and dual throttle body design, it is now the most powerful GT model ever with peak power of 328 kW and maximum torque output of 540 Nm.
The roaring V8 is paired with Ford’s advanced 10-speed automatic transmission, which reconfigures its shift patterns to match the selected Drive Mode. These are Normal, Sport, Slippery, Drag, and Track, plus a customisable setting with up to six individual profiles. And for those who enjoy the sound of a revving V8, the Mustang now has Remote Rev, providing the ability to rev the engine remotely using the key fob.
Locally, the Mustang GT will come standard with the Performance Pack, with a host of track-focused features, including a front suspension tower brace, Torsen limited-slip differential, MagneRide active suspension, wider rear wheels and tyres, along with larger Brembo brakes. It also adds brake ducts for enhanced cooling, an auxiliary engine oil cooler, and an active valve performance exhaust system.
