Car History: Nissan Patrol
Headquartered in Yokohama, Japan, Nissan Motor Corporation has been operating since 1911. It ranks among the top-notch automotive brands across the world. Nissan is renowned globally for its vast lineup of vehicles including sports cars, electric cars, and SUVs. Talking about Nissan’s lineup of SUVs, Nissan Patrol is one of the best in the game, serving the car community for over 70 years.
Let’s take a closer look at Nissan Patrol’s history which spans around its six generations released to date.
Nissan Patrol Generations
Nissan Patrol has evolved a great deal since its launch in 1951. This SUV has maintained its commanding presence in the automotive industry for over 70 years. That said, Nissan Patrol is also top in the list of popular used SUVs in the UAE. Among many impressive features of the Nissan Patrol, the SUV’s off-roading capability and durability are a treat for off-roaders.
Detailed below are the Nissan Patrol generations and their features.
Origin of Nissan: First Generation (1951 – 1960)
The 70 years legacy of Nissan Patrol started with the production of its first model, the 4W Series, in 1951. The 4W60 featured a 3.7-litre Nissan NAK engine mated to a four-speed manual transmission. The Nissan 4W60 was a look-alike of Willys Jeep.
In 1955, the old Nissan Patrol, 4W60 was upgraded to the 4W61 which had a 3.7-litre Nissan NB engine. Also, the front grille was changed, and chrome hood stripes and a one-piece windshield were added.
However, it wasn’t until the release of other variants, including 4W65 and 4W66 that these first-generation models wore the ‘Patrol’ badge on their bonnets.
Second Generation (1960 – 1980)
The successor of the old Nissan Patrol (4W Series) was the ‘60 series’. It was the first Patrol that was exported to Australia in the early 1960s. The 60 series of 4WD Nissan Patrol was manufactured in short, medium, and long wheelbase versions.
The long-wheelbase G60 was the first vehicle to cross the Simpson Desert in 1962, driven by geologist Reg Sprigg, accompanying his family.
In 1969, Nissan Patrol was assembled at the Indian Vehicle Factory, Jabalpur, as ‘Jonga’. It formerly became the weapon of choice by the Indian Army. Nissan ceased production of the 60 series in 1980, replacing it with the MQ Patrol.
Third Generation (1980 – 1993)
The MQ Patrol was released in 1980, under the 160 Series. The 160 series had a modern body style, a standard four-speed manual transmission and leaf-spring suspension.
For the first time, customers had a choice of engines such as the L28, SD33, and P40. The deluxe trims were available in different colours and certain ‘luxury’ features were also added like carpet or vinyl interiors, power-steering, and air-conditioning.
MQ Patrol was updated to MK Patrol in 1983. The revised parts included an upgraded front suspension, five-speed manual transmission, and rectangular headlights. The SD33 engine was upgraded to a turbocharged version delivering 81kW. This feature turned many heads all thanks to the ‘Turbo’ sticker pasted on Nissan Patrol’s rear panels.
The 160 Series facelifted to the 260 series in 1986. It came with many engine options including L28, RD28, RD28T, and SD33.
Fourth Generation (1987 – 1997)
The Nissan Patrol’s old model, MK Patrol was discontinued by the end of 1987 and replaced by the GQ Patrol (Y60). The GQ Patrol, with its coil-spring suspension, sold like hotcakes in the automotive market then.
The redesigning of MK Patrol to GQ Patrol meant more space, comfort, and inclusion of features such as a clock, radio, power steering, and tachometer. Most GQ models had a limited-slip rear differential lock.
The GQ models were way ahead of their predecessors in styling and performance. Many trim levels were offered, including DX, ST, RX, and Ti. The Ti trim was released in late 1989 with most features, having a high roof design with a sunroof.
Minor facelifts were observed in the form of GQ Series 2, showcasing a revised transmission and suspension, firmer brakes, bigger wheels, and new seats. Additionally, the side intrusion bars were a safety update in this series.
Fifth Generation (1997 – 2016)
The fifth Nissan Patrol generation, GU Patrol (Y61) was released in late 1997, boasting a sleek and rounded body. The seven-seater GU Patrol was a major improvement in Nissan Patrol history.
It was available in a wide range of engines. Besides that, the GU Patrol showcased improved NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) levels, greater refinement, and better aerodynamics.
In 2001, the Y61 Series 3 was launched with a 4.8-litre turbo six-cylinder engine, mated with a five-speed automatic transmission. The exteriors of Y61 Series 3 were greatly improved with a new grille, tail lights, bumpers, headlights, wheels, and body colour.
Over the years, the Y61 received minor tweaks. In 2012, the Series 8 Y61 was released sporting active brake limited slip and dynamic controls.
Sixth Generation (2010 – Present)
The sixth generation Nissan Patrol is known as the Y62 series. This luxury 4×4 vehicle is undoubtedly the most sophisticated among the Nissan Patrol generations.
The Y62 series Nissan Patrol features a seven-speed automatic transmission mated to its 5.6-litre V8 engine. It delivers 298 kW and a torque of 560 Nm. The features and performance ascend in the upper-level trims of the Y62 series of Nissan Patrol.
Nissan Patrol 2022
Nissan Patrol 2022 is a compelling package of sophistication and endurance, combined with ultimate comfort and off-roading capability. The vehicle has an intuitive navigation system and tech features such as premium in-vehicle infotainment, driver assist display and wireless connectivity. Also, the 2022 Nissan Patrol Super Safari model offers a powerful performance, continuing its legacy.
No matter how tough the terrain is, the All-Mode 4×4 system gives you a firm grip on and off the road. The Variable 4×4 Mode allows effortless switching between the drive modes.
Nissan Intelligent Mobility enhances connectivity, driveability, and safety while driving. This state-of-the-art system with its cruise control and drive assist moves you a step ahead in the future of cars.
Trims of Nissan Patrol 2022
The following trims are available in Nissan Patrol 2022. The difference between the trims lies in the features they offer, the wheel sizes, and the available engine options.
Nissan Patrol trims such as XE, SE T2, SE Platinum City, and SE Titanium feature a 4.0-litre V6 engine, while the rest have a 5.6-litre V8 engine.
- XE – Starting price is AED 206,000
- SE T2 – Starting price is AED 229,000
- SE Titanium – Starting price is AED 254,000
- SE Platinum City – Starting price is AED 281,000
- LE T1 – Starting price is AED 242,000
- LE T2 – Starting price is AED 285,000
- LE Titanium – Starting price is AED 314,500
- LE Platinum City – Starting price is AED 344,500
- Nismo – Starting price is AED 395,000
That’s all for Nissan Patrol history, its generations and features. Nissan Patrol is an ultimate marque of durability, performance, and comfort. If you want to switch to a Nissan model, you can explore these used Nissan cars for sale in the UAE.
- Used Nissan Patrol for sale in the UAE
- Used Nissan Altima for sale in the UAE
- Second-hand Nissan Pathfinder for sale in the UAE
Stay tuned to the UAE’s top auto blog for more information on the latest car launches.