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More than a status symbol: The Nissan Patrol

Before it became a status symbol and icon of luxury, the Nissan Patrol had humble beginnings.

Jerome Tresvalles
More than a status symbol: The Nissan Patrol

Whenever we see a Nissan Patrol on the road, there’s a certain reverence that comes with the sight—not necessarily because someone important is riding in it, but because the Patrol has become an object of aspiration for many Filipinos, a kind of north star for our dreams and goals.

As far as luxury SUVs are concerned, the Nissan Patrol stands among the elite in its class, deftly blending opulence and capability into one imposing package. Back in the 1950s, however, the Patrol was a far cry from the status symbol we know today.

To fully appreciate what the Nissan Patrol is all about, we need to look back at its humble beginnings and trace how it evolved into the luxurious SUV we see now.

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First-Generation Nissan Patrol

The Nissan Patrol started out in life with the 4W60 Series. Nissan designed it as a rugged, utilitarian vehicle for the masses—and it quickly proved its mettle, becoming the first vehicle to conquer Mount Fuji. Soon, the 4W60 ventured beyond Japan, tackling the harsh Australian outback and the unforgiving dunes of the Middle East.

Nine years later, the second-generation Patrol 60 arrived, carrying forward the same ethos of toughness and simplicity. It cemented its legendary status by becoming the first motor vehicle to cross Australia’s Simpson Desert, completing the grueling 12-day trek through some of the harshest terrain on Earth.

In its third generation, the Patrol developed a more family-friendly disposition, now offering creature comforts such as air conditioning, while also introducing diesel engine options and automatic transmissions. Despite this shift toward comfort, this generation remains as tough as its predecessors. How so? In 1987, the Nissan Patrol Fanta Limon became the first diesel vehicle to achieve a top-10 finish in the Paris-Dakar Rally.

Nissan Patrol Y61

The next generation of the Patrol is the Y60, and the beginning of a radical shift for the Patrol nameplate. The fourth-generation Patrol, the Y60, arrived in 1987, bringing a new level of sophistication without sacrificing the ruggedness the name had earned. Its advanced coil-spring suspension offered superior off-road articulation, while power steering and more refined interiors made long-distance travel far more comfortable. Yet, the Y60 was no stranger to challenge—the Patrol excelled in international rallies and expeditions, proving that comfort and capability could coexist.

In 1997, the fifth-generation Y61 Patrol was built on this foundation, introducing even more powerful engines and enhanced four-wheel-drive systems. Technological upgrades like electronic fuel injection, advanced diesel options, and modern braking systems made it both reliable and resilient. Design-wise, the Y61 generation heralded the start of the body shape that would dictate the next two generations. In addition, further improvements in NVH insulation and seating comfort meant that the Y61 was stepping further into premium categories.

Then came the sixth-generation Y62 Patrol in 2010, a vehicle that truly blended luxury and brute strength. With a fully independent suspension, cutting-edge safety systems, and a V8 gasoline engine producing remarkable torque, it could conquer the harshest terrain while pampering its occupants with leather-trimmed cabins, advanced infotainment, and climate control. Even at this level of refinement, the Y62 remained a force of nature off-road, embodying decades of Nissan’s engineering know-how and its relentless pursuit of durability.

Y63 Nissan Patrol Exterior
Y63 Nissan Patrol ADAS
Y63 Nissan Patrol Rear

Which then brings us to the present day, where we now have the Y63 Nissan Patrol, the most advanced and sophisticated iteration of the Patrol yet. From its humble beginnings as the rugged 4W60, the Nissan Patrol has evolved into a benchmark of off-road capability and comfort, a journey epitomized by the all-new seventh-generation Y63 Patrol. Gone are the simple, utilitarian interiors of the past, replaced by a technologically advanced cabin featuring a sweeping 28.6-inch digital display, wireless connectivity, and ProPILOT driver-assist systems. 

Nissan V35DDTT Engine

Its beating heart is the V35DDTT, a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission that delivers effortless power and torque, while an upgraded ladder-frame chassis and adaptive air suspension with e-dampers ensure both comfort on highways and confidence on the most challenging trails.

Nissan Patrol Dashboard

Despite the advancements, the Y63 remains true to the Patrol’s legacy of toughness. Off-road enthusiasts will find locking rear differentials, multiple terrain modes, and a two-speed transfer case, supported by advanced visibility and camera systems that make navigating obstacles second nature. From conquering Mount Fuji in the 4W60 to mastering dunes, deserts, and rallies in modern times, the Patrol has continuously pushed the envelope of engineering and innovation. Today, the Y63 is not just a luxury SUV; most importantly, it’s not just a status symbol; it’s the culmination of decades of Nissan’s pursuit of toughness, innovation, and adventure.

Y63 Nissan Patrol Front Quarter

If you want to experience the Y63 Nissan Patrol for yourself, check it out on the Nissan Car Guide and get in touch with official Nissan sales agents today.

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