AFTER six years and over 10,000 vehicles, the Nissan Warrior by Premcar program is set to nearly double production in 2024, fuelled by the arrival of the updated Nissan Patrol Warrior.
Based on the recently facelifted MY24 Patrol – which introduces updates including a new infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Hema maps app (with included 30-day free trial), wireless device charging, dual-zone climate control, camera-based rear-view mirror, and centre console cool box – the Premcar-enhanced offering continues to provide the Patrol with the go-anywhere ability already enjoyed by several thousand Australian buyers.
The changes to the Patrol Warrior (from $104,160 plus on-road costs) continue as per the previous model, with comprehensive alterations to wheels, suspension, exhaust, front and rear bumpers and interior styling.
All Warrior models are tested and developed locally with re-engineering taking place at Premcar’s state-of-the-art 6500 square metre facility in Epping, Victoria.
“The MY24 Patrol Warrior by Premcar is a triumph of Australian ingenuity,” said Premcar engineering director Bernie Quinn.
“The Patrol Warrior is tailor-made for Australian conditions and has been extensively trialled and tested over some of the toughest terrain this country has to offer to ensure it doesn’t just live up to the badge but sets a new benchmark for it.
“And the MY24 updates further that Australian-made story, through partnering with another Australian-based company, Directed Technologies, for these cabin technology updates.
As is the case with the donor Patrol, the head unit (infotainment system) and fascia are produced locally and fitted to the vehicle as part of the pre-delivery process (or as part of the re-manufacturing process for Warrior models). Prixcar handles the installation for regular Nissan Patrol models at the port of entry.
Premcar sold some 2717 Warrior models in 2023 and is anticipating that number to double in 2024, primarily off the back of new Patrol sales.
The testing of Premcar Warrior models is done entirely in Australia, utilising what the manufacturer describes as “arduous terrain and conditions” to “prove-out the package”.
The vehicles are homologated and approved through the Premcar secondary-stage manufacturing process with strict processes and attention to detail enabling Premcar to match Nissan warranty on all Warrior enhancements.
All Warrior-branded vehicles are put through a comprehensive test regime with a range of performance and durability validations for Australian conditions. Development includes on- and off-road testing in remote areas of Australia, including Mount Disappointment (VIC), Big Desert (VIC), Arkaroola (SA), and the areas surrounding Lake Eyre (SA).
Premcar says Big Desert is its major testing ground of choice with the harsh environment emblematic of some of the toughest conditions in Australia, while the diversity of the surfaces, undulations and tracks packs in all of what this country has to offer.
The 2024 Nissan Patrol Warrior by Premcar is based on the Nissan Patrol Ti and continues to offer Nissan’s proven 5.6-litre V8 petrol engine producing 298kW of power and 560Nm of torque. It is paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission and dual range four-wheel drive system with electronic selection and a helical rear limited slip differential.
Other highlights of the Warrior include a unique wheel, tyre and suspension package, the latter offering an additional 50mm of body lift (29mm from suspension and 21mm from wheel/tyre package), retuned Hydraulic Body Motion Control system, new front and rear progressive rate springs, and progressive rate rear bump stops.
The Patrol Warrior by Premcar further offers a redesigned tow bar which accommodates the model’s larger spare wheel, a 129kg GVW upgrade, 2.5mm thick steel red bash plate, black exterior highlights and decals, and a bi-modal exhaust.
Changes to the model afford a 40mm wider track than the donor model, 40.0-degree approach angle and 23.3-degree departure angle.
The model is available in four paint colours including Black Obsidian, Brilliant Silver, Gun Metallic, and Moonstone White.
2024 Nissan Patrol pricing*:
Ti (a) |
$87,900 |
|
Ti-L (a) |
$100,600 |
|
Warrior (a) |
$104,160 |
New variant |
*Pricing excludes on-road costs.