New Generation Y63 Nissan Patrol unveiled

V8 NISSAN Patrol lovers will be dismayed to learn the 5.6-litre V8 petrol engine in the current 14-year-old Y62 model has been consigned to history after the new-gen Y63 series Patrol was announced at a global reveal in Abu Dhabi, UAE this week running only V6 petrol power.

 

The seventh generation Patrol sits on a new platform that is 35mm longer (5205mm), 35mm wider (2030mm) and rides on the same 3075mm wheelbase as the outgoing model.

 

Replacing the big alloy lump under the bonnet is a choice of two petrol V6s: a 3.5-litre twin turbo and 3.8-litre naturally aspirated spec’ with nary an electric assist motor and associated battery to be seen.

 

Not confirmed but highly likely the only choice for Down Under is the 3.5-litre twin turbo that is good for 317kW and 700Nm output, a significant increase over the old bent-eight naturally aspirated VK56 K1 unit that put out 298kW and 560Nm.

 

Countering this is the additional weight of the new Y63 accentuated by its extensive standard equipment across luxury, safety and capability.

 

The 3.8-litre naturally-aspirated petrol V6, tipped as unlikely for Australia, produces 236kW and 386Nm.

 

The new model’s arrival in a few years spells an end to one of the big attractions of the current model – its fruity, rumbling exhaust note, often enhanced by an aftermarket muffler system, coupled with an easy, loping power delivery that makes the Y62 a favourite with off-road enthusiasts, around Australia lappers and people who tow trailers and vans.

 

Many buyers couldn’t ignore the price pitched at thousands of dollars less than Patrol’s main competitor, Toyota’s LandCruiser 300 Series with the Y62 listed from $88,900 and the 300 Series from $96,991, both excluding on roads.

 

At the international launch, Nissan signalled its intention to take Patrol upmarket to compete in loftier territory potentially with the likes of Range Rover and other premium off roaders. 

 

This was evident from the design, features and specification of the displayed new model and reinforced by Nissan executives at the rostrum, the model scoring a host of new technologies under the stylish skin to excite potential buyers. 

 

Does it all mean a $290,000 (Range Rover’s entry price) Patrol?

 

Hardly, but a big price jump is to be expected, probably mirroring the 300 Series schedule … and line up.

 

Given its likely operating environment and intended uses, the new Patrol’s engine cooling has been upgraded, replacing the twin belt-driven cooling fans with twin electric units in association with what Nissan says is the largest cooling system yet fitted to a Nissan product.

 

Power goes full time to all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission with high and low range and rear diff’ lock.

 

Steering is hydraulic with a lane-centring function, but off-road specs were not available at the launch. Nissan said improvements have been made to approach and departure angles with the air suspension further improving off-road capability.

 

Multiple terrain modes provide: Rock, Sand, Mud, Standard, Eco and Sport. A supple and level (Range Rover-esque) ride is virtually guaranteed with air suspension providing up to 70mm ride height variation as standard equipment coupled with a wading depth of 700mm.

 

Among the more desirable features is NissanConnect suite of functions, an infrared biometric climate control system covering all three seat rows and dual 14.3-inch touchscreens combining for an expansive 28.6-inch display in the dash.

 

Also adding to luxury are pneumatic massage seats and head-up display, while the new infotainment system has a suite of Google features including: Google Maps (displayed on the HUD) and Google Assistant with cloud-based voice recognition for speech interpretation.

 

The new model gains paddle shifters and a number of cameras to improve visibility including front and rear cross-traffic alert that pairs with a front-mounted camera and is capable of seeing around intersections.

 

Information gleaned from the Patrol launch tells us the big SUV’s mass has increased (undisclosed), but the GVM hasn’t, translating into a lower payload. But braked towing capacity is expected to remain at 3500kg.

 

New Patrol will be available in a seven-colour palette including Forest Green, Pearl White, Mineral Black, Grey, Grand Blue and Silver metallic finishes.

 

At the new Patrol launch, Makoto Uchida, president and CEO, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., said: “The all-new Patrol is a prime example of the exciting and empowering models we are delivering under our global business plan, ‘The Arc’.

 

“The seventh generation is a bold leap forward, blending unparalleled performance, cutting-edge technology and a commanding presence to redefine what an SUV can be.

 

“With its history of more than 70 years, the Patrol perfectly embodies our corporate purpose of ‘Driving innovation to enrich people's lives’.” 

 

Potential buyers will have to wait a long time for their new Patrol as orders will be taken from late 2026 for 2027 delivery. This may be due to the Aussie spec’ Patrol being the first globally with right-hand drive as left hook markets dominate for the model.

 

In the meantime, there’s always the trusty old Y62 Patrol with old school V8 power.