The new Y63 generation Nissan Patrol, the first new model for the off-road SUV nameplate in 14 years, was unveiled overnight in an event in Abu Dhabi. And Chasing Cars was in attendance to see the new behemoth in the metal.
The reveal confirms that the iconic 5.6-litre V8 engine in the current Y62 will be put to pasture when the existing model is phased out, replaced by a choice of V6 engines to be offered on the global menu.
The widely speculated 3.5-litre turbo-turbocharged petrol V6 is confirmed as the premium engine option, outputting 317kW and 700Nm. This is the exclusive engine fitted to versions of the Y63 slated for the Australia market.
A naturally aspirated 3.8-litre V6 producing 236kW and 386Nm of torque will be available in some markets for lower-grade Y63 variants. It is highly unlikely to be offered Down Under (but never say never).
Elsewhere, the Y63 Patrol maintains a familiar formula, though the new generation adopts a Jatco-sourced nine-speed torque converter auto paired with the familiar full-time 4×4 system.
The Y63 rides on a new platform underpinning a 35mm longer (5202mm) and 35mm wider (2030mm) vehicle. Air suspension is now standard, capable of providing 70mm of ride height adjustment. The Y63 sits on the same wheelbase (3075mm) as the current Y62.
Outside, the demonstration vehicles – one wearing Platinum variant nomenclature – reveal a vastly more contemporary and upmarket design. Clearly Nissan is keen to position some version of the Y63 in a more premium space.
It’s a similar story inside, where higher grades will benefit from dual 14.3-inch digital displays. Display vehicles at the event also showed dual 12.3-inch media screens for row-two occupants.
Vehicles present in Abu Dhabi clearly suggest that Nissan is keen to chase the likes of Range Rover when it comes to offering levels of luxury and opulence in the top end of the Y63 lineup.
The Y63 will make its showroom debut in the Middle East this year. However, Aussies will have a much longer wait for the newcomer to come to market.
While Australia will become the first right-hand-drive market to offer the Y63 Patrol, production for Aussie versions isn’t slated until 2026, when orders will open. It’s forecast that local deliveries mightn’t occur until 2027.
Needless to say, final Australian specification and pricing is yet to be finalised.
Nissan Australia says that it will continue to offer the Y62 generation while demand, production and supply allows.
