The Nissan Patrol might be petrol only, but it's not quite as thirsty as you might think, and it offers a level of luxury and value that not even the 200 Series can compete with.
Pros Petrol V8 is smooth, refined and powerful Ride and handling balance is excellent for a large SUV Interior is cavernous and comfortable for family buyers
Cons Exterior is big, and that might be an issue, especially in town No diesel engine might put some buyers off Updated infotainment system didn't make it to Australia for the update
For the extra money, the 2020 Nissan Patrol gets new frontal styling – a sportier look for the Ti and a more premium look for the Ti-L, says Nissan – plus refreshed rear styling, along with improved LED headlights and taillights, recalibrated suspension, and three new colour choices (white, gold, and blue) for a total of six. Both grades now receive power folding mirrors and improved climate-control cooling, while the base-spec Patrol Ti receives a range of Nissan's Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Nissan Intelligent Mobility safety features.
Nissan has given the Patrol a freshen-up for MY2020 with new styling front and rear, tweaks to the suspension tune, and the inclusion of new safety features on both Ti and Ti-L models. While midlife style updates often don’t do the original vehicle design justice, the new-look Patrol works well, giving the vehicle a sharper and more integrated overall look that slightly minimises the once bulbous appearance of this undeniably big eight-seat wagon.
For 2021 Significant exterior and interior update.Completely revised powertrain lineup, including a newly available hybrid.New range-topping Calligraphy trim.
Pros Abundant standard features for the money Generous warranty coverage Smooth operation of advanced driver aids Quick acceleration from available turbocharged 2.5-liter engine
Cons Overly soft suspension tuning dilutes driver enjoyment 10.25-inch touchscreen can be a bit slow to respond
The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe makes premium gains with hybrid and turbo-4 power and a Palisade-like interior.
Pros Larger standard and available touchscreens Hybrid models Potent powertrains Revised transmission Luxe Calligraphy edition
Cons Moderate base-engine power Middling fuel economy (except Hybrid) Busy body
The Santa Fe receives a visual freshening for 2021 that includes bolder front-end styling and improvements to its interior. Three new powertrains are offered: A 2.5-liter four-cylinder replaces the standard 2.4-liter unit, a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder replaces the optional turbocharged 2.0-liter, and a hybrid variant powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder and an electric motor joins the lineup.
Pros Relative bargain compared to rivals, relaxed demeanor, nicely-equipped cabin.
Cons Nonhybrid models could be more fuel efficient, tight rear seat headroom, no third-row option.
