Considered as a fixture in the streets and off-road trails of UAE, the Nissan Patrol is one of the most iconic SUVs in the world. Known for its superior off-road capabilities, proven reliability, and strong pedigree, the Patrol is one of the best options available for SUV lovers. Models both new and old have strong demand and can cost a pretty penny if sold in excellent condition. This article will take a closer look at the history of the Nissan Patrol.
The Nissan Patrol was first produced in 1951. Just like its longtime rival, the Toyota Land Cruiser, the Patrol was produced to fulfill Japan’s demand for all-terrain vehicles. Remember that during that period, Japan was still rebuilding from the aftermath of World War II, so creating heavy-duty vehicles that can be driven in almost all driving conditions was a must. The first-generation Patrol, inspired by the Jeep, was equipped with the best specs of its day. It was also available in both short-wheelbase and long-wheelbase variants, an option that stayed on for nearly all Patrol models.
The second-generation Nissan Patrol, also known as the 60, was in production from 1960 to 1969. It was the first Patrol model to be imported outside Japan, most notably in Australia and the United States. The 60 Patrol is notable as the first and only car (until the 1980s) to be sold as a Nissan in the United States (all of them were sold under the Datsun brand until the name was phased out). This Patrol was perhaps best-known as the first production car to drive across the Simpson Desert in Australia in 1962. This feat solidified the Patrol’s reputation as a very capable and reliable all-terrain car.
The third-generation Nissan Patrol, also known as the 160, took on the body form that defined contemporary SUVs. Tall and muscular, there were multiple body and wheelbase options available for buyers. Regardless of body type, all these cars were equipped with a heavy-duty suspension, 4-wheel drive, and powerful diesel and petrol engines. This car was produced from 1980 to 1989, but this car remained in production in some countries for as late as 2002. A lot of these cars were used as emergency vehicles, and a lot more are being customized by enthusiasts for all-terrain driving.
The fourth-generation Nissan Patrol, also known as the Y60, was first produced in 1987. It was the first Patrol to be equipped with a coil spring suspension, power steering, and synchromesh in reverse gear. This car has proven popular wherever it was sold. The fifth-generation Nissan Patrol, also known as the Y61, was released in 1997. Improvements in the drivetrain and engines made this car a formidable force in stock form, and a favorite by tuners. The Y61 model remains on sale in some countries to this day.
The sixth-generation Patrol (Y62), released in 2010, is the model currently in production. The current Patrol remains as capable and awe-inspiring as the models that preceded it albeit in a more elegant outer shell. It remains committed to uncompromised all-terrain performance, best exemplified by the technology and drive modes that it packs within it.
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