NISSAN gave a world premiere at the show to the new Patrol GR which will go on sale in the UK next March two months ahead of the Primera estate which fleets saw for the first time at this year's Fleet Motor Show at Silverstone. Powered by a new 2.8 litre, six cylinder, turbo diesel engine with an intercooler, power has been increased to 130 PS from the 113 PS of the out-going Patrol GR.

Exterior and interior styling changes have also taken place which see the vehicle remaining a seven-seater but with increased boot space. In addition off-road performance and comfort are boosted with the addition of a rear stabiliser bar which can be electrically disengaged - a European first.

Prices and specification have still to be finalised, although trim levels will be SLX and SE, but Nissan hopes to sell 800 new models next year and 1,000 in a full year. That compares with 350 models this year. A choice of three and five-door models will be available with manual but no automatic transmissions.