NISSAN'S Patrol has long been seen as the no-frills big 4WD. Lacking the full-time four-wheel drive or high-tech multi-valve engines of its Toyota counterpart, the Patrol has nevertheless earned credibility as an honest, practical 4WD that is very capable off-road and no less handy around town than a LandCruiser. A mild facelift in March 2000 added side airbags to the TI, making the top-of-the-line Patrol edge ever closer to its Toyota counterpart.

The TI's 4.5-litre six is still thirsty.