The Patrol Y62, to give it its full in-house code name, is very different from every Nissan Patrol that preceded it. This Patrol has a big V8 engine that gives it exceptional performance. As well, its unusual and technically advanced suspension combines on-road handling impressively with off road ability. The Patrol has a luxurious and very roomy cabin with at least seven seats, and a sophisticated dual-range four-wheel drive system.
Pros Huge cabin; powerful engine; very capable off road.
Cons Heavy fuel use; needs plenty of parking room.
The Patrol does seem underdone with some of its controls and it is a big unit to thread around town. Yet it is a very good tow vehicle, with very good performance, pretty good stability and ride and the fuel consumption of a small V8 – if you don’t push it hard.
Pros Performance Relatively light on fuel Towing stability
Cons Outdated park brake Lack of digital speedometer Reduced towball download at GVM
A nip and tuck for this year isn't enough to ignore the wrinkles in the aging 2018 Infiniti QX80.
Pros Far more attractive than before V-8 is charming Beautiful interior upholstery Active safety features aren't expensive
Cons Traces roots back to 2010 and it shows No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto Still big and cumbersome despite tech Very poor fuel economy
As big as a luxury yacht and almost as opulent inside, the QX80 is Infiniti’s answer to the Cadillac Escalade. It’s built on a full-size truck frame and powered by a 400-hp 5.6-liter V-8 with a seven-speed automatic; rear-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional.
Pros Handsome visage, burly naturally aspirated V-8.
Cons Clumsy handling, heavy drinker, outdated and missing technology.
The 2018 QX80 receives a noticeable exterior makeover. New LED headlights, taillights and foglights complement redesigned front and rear bumpers and a rear tailgate. The QX80 also rides along restyled wheels wrapped in softer sidewall tires, which, along with a retuned suspension, are intended to improve ride comfort.
PROS Powerful V8 delivers strong acceleration and a high tow rating Capable and controlled handling for a big SUV Brakes deliver strong stopping power Easy to see out of
CONS Ride quality degrades with optional 22-inch wheels Third-row seat is difficult to access and a tight fit for adults Updated interior hasn't changed enough Engine is thirstier than most
