So we got a 2017 Nissan Patrol Nismo

It’s been about a year since the Nismo version of the Patrol took the UAE by storm. A sporty version of a legendary body-on-frame offroader? It was never done before. But it’s proven to be a successful concept, to the point where numerous non-Nismo Patrol owners took to the aftermarket to turn their regular versions into Nismo lookalikes. Oddly enough, we never got the chance to drive one for whatever reason, so finally asked for one. We were given the car that appeared in the TV ads, complete with non-standard shabab tint.

The Patrol Nismo is quite the looker. While we weren’t particularly enamoured by it until now, we warmed up to it as we drove this one around, and it got 100% positive comments from everyone who saw it up close, including my wife who says our own Nissan Patrol LE now looks bland.

Inside, the sparkling white upholstery looks great, spicing up the Patrol’s already-premium interior, although the light leather show dirt rather easily and will require regular detailing.

The Patrol Nismo drives with a certain level of familiarity, but there are some key differences as well. Find out more in the full review soon.