MANY 4x4s are getting softer but not the Nissan Patrol. For the latest version that goes on sale at the end of October, Nissan has stayed true to the principles that created the first Patrol over 50 years ago. There's a new look outside and in, plus greater power and torque. But the Patrol is still as tough and unstoppable as ever. And at prices starting from £24,500, no other new car offers as much metal for the money.

The Patrol has never been one for pottering up pavements - it's as common in Chelsea as affordable housing. No, the Patrol is built for storming across sand dunes and marching up mountains. And the new Patrol certainly has the looks to match its abilities.

Even a camel would move over when faced with the Patrol's imposing nose with its extra helping of chrome and raised bonnet centre influenced by Nissan's enormous Titan pickup. There's a more streamlined look for the front bumper which in SVE form now houses deeply recessed fog lights. Yet the bumper design maintains the acute approach angle needed for serious off-road driving.