2024 Nissan Patrol Warrior Review: Infotainment Upgrades & V8 Thrills

What Makes the 2024 Nissan Patrol Warrior Stand Out

After analyzing this comprehensive review, I believe the 2024 Nissan Patrol Warrior addresses a critical pain point for Australian off-road enthusiasts: outdated technology. While retaining its iconic 5.6L V8 roar and Premcar's mechanical enhancements, this update finally brings the infotainment into the modern era. For buyers seeking a rugged, character-filled SUV before Nissan's next-generation model arrives, these changes offer tangible improvements despite some integration quirks. The collaboration between Nissan and Premcar represents a rare Australian manufacturing success story, with Victorian jobs supporting these conversions.

The Game-Changing Infotainment Upgrade

Nissan and Premcar have replaced the Patrol Warrior's outdated 8-inch display with a 10.1-inch unit featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This upgrade directly responds to years of owner feedback about the system being the vehicle's weakest link. The new unit includes high-definition reversing camera functionality, built-in satellite navigation, and digital radio - essential features missing in the previous iteration.

One standout feature is the integrated HEMA 4x4 mapping, though it's worth noting this only includes a 1-month subscription. After this trial period, owners must pay ongoing fees. While the Middle Eastern-market Patrols get Nissan's proprietary system, this aftermarket solution significantly improves functionality despite its placement lower in the dashboard. During testing, touch responsiveness proved quick and navigation reliable, though the screen position requires glancing down from the road.

Premcar's Mechanical Mastery

Beyond the tech updates, Premcar's transformation of the base Patrol creates a uniquely Australian off-roader. The Melbourne-based engineering firm installs specially developed springs that deliver a 50mm lift, enhancing approach and departure angles. The triple-rate rear springs particularly impress, reducing the axle bounce common in standard Patrols while maintaining on-road comfort.

The Warrior package includes:

Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires on unique 18-inch alloys
Black fender flares and red front bash plate
Re-engineered hydraulic body motion control system
Dual off-road recovery points
️ 48kg payload increase
Borla exhaust system that activates based on driving conditions

The exhaust deserves special mention. When parameters align (throttle position, RPM, and speed), it unleashes the V8's full symphony. In manual mode, it remains constantly open and even provides rev-matching downshifts. Premcar completes these comprehensive modifications in just 24 hours per vehicle, leveraging former Ford Performance Vehicle suppliers to support local jobs.

On and Off-Road Performance Insights

The 5.6L naturally aspirated V8 remains unchanged, delivering 298kW of characterful power increasingly rare in modern SUVs. It's paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission that, while not the fastest-shifting, complements the engine's personality. During testing, fuel consumption averaged 16-17L/100km - a significant consideration given current fuel prices.

Off-Road Capability:

Sand, snow, rock, and on-road drive modes adjust gear behavior and suspension
Hydraulic body motion control enhances stability on uneven terrain
Triple-rate springs absorb corrugations effectively
Light steering eases low-speed maneuvering despite the vehicle's size

On-Road Behavior:

Insulated cabin minimizes road and wind noise
Steering feels vague at highway speeds
Significant body roll in corners due to high center of gravity
Parking requires patience (5.17m length, 2.2m width)

The interior updates extend beyond infotainment. Premcar replaced woodgrain trim with Alcantara accents, added Warrior-branded elements, and included practical features like a center console cooler box and wireless charger. The digital rearview mirror enhances visibility when the cargo area is loaded.

Key Considerations Before Purchasing

Pros:

Unreplicable V8 character with the Borla exhaust enhancement
True dual-discipline capability for touring and off-roading
Local Australian engineering supporting jobs and regional needs
Spacious, comfortable cabin with improved materials
Substantial payload and towing capacity

Cons:

Poor fuel economy (16-17L/100km)
Awkward infotainment positioning requires looking down
Cumbersome urban maneuverability
Upcoming next-generation model due within 12 months
HEMA 4x4 maps require subscription after first month

Critical Question: Is this update worth $114,100 before on-roads? If the infotainment was your primary hesitation with the 2023 model, yes. If not, the remaining shortcomings remain largely unchanged.

Warrior Checklist: Test Drive Essentials

Test the exhaust - Find an open road and activate the Borla system by accelerating through mid-RPM ranges
Evaluate screen placement - Simulate navigation use while driving to assess glance-down safety
Measure your garage - Confirm clearance for the Warrior's dimensions (L: 5170mm W: 2200mm)
Calculate running costs - Budget for $200+ weekly fuel at current prices and 15,000km/year
Negotiate HEMA subscription - Ask dealers about extended mapping trial periods

For serious off-roaders, consider pairing the Warrior with:

Front Runner roof racks (for additional gear storage)
Bushranger X-Jack (complements hydraulic suspension system)
Maxtrax recovery boards (despite dual recovery points)
UltraGauge OBDII monitor (to track real-time fuel consumption)

Final Verdict: A Worthy Update with Caveats

The 2024 Patrol Warrior successfully addresses its most glaring weakness with the infotainment upgrade, though integration could be better executed. Premcar's mechanical enhancements create Australia's most capable production Patrol, balancing off-road prowess with surprising on-road comfort. While heavy on fuel and challenging in urban settings, few vehicles offer this combination of V8 character and genuine outback capability. With an all-new model imminent, this represents the ultimate expression of the Y62 Patrol platform.

Which aspect - the V8 sound, infotainment upgrade, or off-road enhancements - would most influence your purchase decision? Share your priorities below!