Nissan has a long history of producing 4×4 vehicles, starting with the 4W Series in 1951. This Jeep-like SUV was exclusive to the Japanese market and is considered the first Patrol by Nissan. The 60 Series, introduced in 1960, was the first Nissan-badged vehicle sold in the U.S. through Datsun dealerships. This second-generation Patrol came in three wheelbases and various body styles, but U.S. imports ceased in 1969.
In 1980, Nissan launched the 160 Series Patrol, marking the first new Patrol in 20 years. This model featured a modern but boxy body design, with the long-wheelbase version offering an optional automatic transmission. The Y60 Patrol, released in 1987, was reminiscent of an early Nissan Pathfinder but slightly larger. It introduced coil springs and electric windows, becoming particularly popular in Australia where a rebadged version was sold by Ford as the Maverick.
The Y61 Patrol, introduced in 1997, focused on refinement and comfort, aligning with the trend seen in off-road vehicles from Land Rover and Toyota during that era. This model remained in production until 2023. In 2003, Nissan launched the TA60 Armada, manufactured in the U.S. with a wagon body on a Nissan Titan platform. It was a robust SUV capable of towing up to 9100 pounds and was initially named the Pathfinder Armada.
The JA60 Patrol, sharing the same platform as the TA60 Armada, debuted in 2004 and later became the most expensive Infiniti model by 2007. The Y62 Patrol, introduced in 2010, marked the return of the Patrol to the U.S. market after over 40 years. It was offered as an Infiniti QX56 initially and later as a Nissan Armada (Z62), featuring V-8 power and hydraulic anti-roll control.
In 2024, Nissan introduced the Y63 family, including the QX80 and the new Nissan Armada (Z63) with a twin-turbo V-6 engine. The Patrol version of the Y63 family also offers a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V-6 engine, catering to different preferences in the market. The continuous evolution of the Nissan 4×4 family showcases the brand’s commitment to providing versatile and capable vehicles for off-road enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
