The Patriot delivers generous interior space and solid cross-country capability. With a new all-wheel drive option priced around 2–2.5 million rubles, compact rivals like the Renault Duster are outmatched in space, while cheaper options such as the Niva still fall short in off-road confidence. In terms of mileage, a true SUV emerges, offering advantages over the UAZ in multiple aspects.
And when it comes to long-term ownership, these models can prove to be more robust than the UAZ in many respects.
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
Toyota has long earned a reputation for strong resale value in the used market, and the Land Cruiser Prado stands out even more in this regard. For just over two million rubles, one can find a 120-series Prado from 2007–2008 with more than 200,000 kilometers on the odometer. High mileage isn’t a deal-breaker here; these vehicles typically hold up well in reliability.
The majority of Prados are equipped with a 4.0-liter petrol engine producing about 249 horsepower. This engine is eager and capable but not excessively demanding on maintenance. A common weak point on the Prado 120 is the transfer case actuator; buyers should verify the center differential lock.
The body position sensor tends to fail and can cause the body to default to the top position after around 100,000 kilometers. The paint is thin and the front end can quickly develop a matte finish.
The interior is assembled to a high standard, though materials may not be exceptionally durable, with leather and plastics both showing wear at higher mileage.
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
From an ideological standpoint, the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport is closest to the Patriot. This SUV, derived from a pickup, isn’t about prestige but about toughness and practicality. For the price of a new Patriot, buyers can often acquire a Pajero Sport (2014–2015) with about 140–150 thousand kilometers on the clock.
The typical configuration includes a 2.5-liter diesel engine delivering around 178 horsepower, with options for a manual gearbox.
Among the potential issues, the four-wheel-drive control unit may fail, though this isn’t widespread. For off-road enthusiasts, it’s wise to check ABS sensor performance. The steering shaft can produce knocks, and replacing the assembly won’t always resolve it. When steering, it helps to inspect the crank handle and the steering tip seals.
The Pajero Sport’s suspension is durable, though the front upper arm bushings may require attention around the 100,000-km mark, typically during lever replacement.
The paint on the door sills can wear through to metal quickly, and interior trim uses inexpensive hard plastics. The seating position isn’t perfect, and the steering wheel tilt is limited.
Nissan Pathfinder
The Pathfinder R51 is an SUV with a solid frame. Vehicles from 2013–2014 with 150–160 thousand kilometers can be competitively priced against a new UAZ.
Powertrains vary, with a 3.0-liter diesel producing about 231 horsepower or a 3.5-liter petrol V6 delivering around 249 horsepower. Diesel variants may omit the particulate filter, which can impact engine tuning. Replacing the diesel particulate filter is straightforward, but its failure can noticeably reduce power and raise fuel consumption.
Some examples feature a manual transmission, where clutch durability is around 140–150 thousand kilometers. In the suspension, ball bearings may require revision every 80–90 thousand kilometers, and some Pathfinders exhibit steering column play. These quirks are often considered part of the design rather than critical flaws.
The Pathfinder’s front fascia bears similarity to the Navara pickup.
The hard plastic interior can look dated after bumps, and decorative elements can lose their luster with use.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
American SUVs aren’t absent from this segment. A new Patriot price range can fetch a fourth-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee from 2012–2013 at slightly above 2 million rubles.
Many Grand Cherokees run a 3.0-liter diesel delivering about 245 horsepower. When inspecting these, it is essential to check the injection pump and EGR system, as older models were prone to issues in these areas. The air conditioning deserves a test run, and pre-facelift cars may show radiator leaks that are solvable with upgraded parts.
Automatic transmissions can be tricky to pair with a diesel engine, so regular oil changes every 40–50 thousand kilometers help extend life.
Chrome accents tend to peel in harsher climates, and the cabin’s finish may not endure as long as some rivals. Yet compared with many Japanese models, the interior of the American SUV can retain its usability over high mileage and time.
Chevrolet Tahoe
The third-generation Chevrolet Tahoe, aged around ten years with about 200,000 kilometers, can sit near the Patriot in price. It’s a sturdy machine built to endure.
The 5.3-liter V8 gasoline engine is known for longevity but can feel a bit heavy in terms of fuel economy. The engine has a robust profile, though the annual transport tax—especially in large cities—can be significant.
Automatic reliability is solid, with occasional shifting kicks that can be addressed by software updates. By about 140–150 thousand kilometers, wheel bearings and front hubs typically need attention. A slight play in the steering cross is common but not catastrophic. Some Tahoe trims include electric footrests that require regular maintenance; otherwise, they can sag or fail to operate.
Paint on bumpers and tailgates is prone to chipping, and signs of aging appear on the steering wheel and knobs as mileage climbs.
What do we take?
Finding a worthy alternative to the UAZ among classic SUVs isn’t difficult. Age matters, and even the most reliable models require some repair. The modern UAZ Patriot, while not perfect in terms of reliability, remains affordable to operate. In terms of fuel, it averages around 17–18 L/100 km.
The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport emerges as a strong option in the used market. It is newer within the sample, offers comparable off-road capability to the Patriot, and is likely to be more reliable as it ages.
That said, the final choice depends on personal preference and needs.
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