The end of an era has arrived for Nissan fans in New Zealand. The final examples of the V8-powered Nissan Patrol Y62 have reached dealerships, marking the closing chapter for one of the country’s longest-serving and most recognisable large SUVs.
Nissan New Zealand has confirmed that no additional shipments of the petrol-powered Patrol are planned, making the vehicles currently available in showrooms the last opportunity for buyers to own a factory V8 Patrol before the next-generation model arrives. The Patrol is currently sold exclusively in Ti-L specification, priced from NZ$116,990 excluding on-road costs, according to Nissan New Zealand’s official Patrol pricing page.
Nissan New Zealand Managing Director Harsha Padmanabhan said the Patrol has built an incredible reputation for power and pulling strength. He noted that many owners use the SUV to tow farm equipment during the week, before switching to boats, caravans or leisure gear on weekends.
How the Y62 Changed the Patrol Formula
When Nissan unveiled the Y62 Patrol globally in 2010, it represented one of the biggest transformations in the model’s history. Earlier Patrol generations, particularly the Y61, were known for rugged live-axle underpinnings and a more traditional off-road focus. The Y62 moved in a different direction, adopting independent suspension, a more refined driving experience and a significantly more luxurious cabin.
The change initially divided some traditional Patrol enthusiasts, but the model eventually carved out its own identity. It became a large seven-seat SUV capable of combining long-distance comfort with genuine off-road capability, helping it attract both family buyers and towing-focused customers.
More than 15 years after its debut, the Y62 remains one of the oldest mainstream SUV platforms still sold anywhere in the world. Nissan continued updating the vehicle throughout its life cycle, including technology and infotainment upgrades introduced to New Zealand-spec models during 2025.
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One of the Last Naturally Aspirated V8 SUVs
A major reason behind the Patrol’s enduring appeal has been its refusal to follow industry trends. While competitors increasingly adopted turbocharged six-cylinder engines, hybrid systems and electrified powertrains, Nissan continued offering a naturally aspirated 5.6-litre petrol V8.
The engine delivers 298kW of power and 560Nm of torque through a seven-speed automatic transmission. Combined with a 3500kg braked towing capacity, those figures helped make the Patrol a popular choice among caravan owners, boating enthusiasts and rural buyers across New Zealand.
Throughout much of its life, the Patrol competed directly against Toyota’s LandCruiser range, including both the 200 Series and current 300 Series. It was also frequently considered alongside vehicles such as the Land Rover Defender and Ineos Grenadier, while often offering buyers a lower entry price than several rivals.
The Patrol experienced renewed interest during the first half of the 2020s as demand increased for vehicles capable of towing caravans, campers and outdoor recreation equipment. Its position as one of the last relatively attainable V8-powered family SUVs further strengthened its appeal. Interest in rugged vehicles and automotive culture has also remained strong, similar to the enthusiasm surrounding Japan’s iconic car scene featured in Forza Horizon 6, where classic off-roaders and performance vehicles continue to attract dedicated fans.
The Y63 Patrol Is Next
Nissan’s focus now shifts to the all-new Y63 Patrol, which made its global debut in 2024 and is expected to arrive in New Zealand showrooms during 2027.
The next-generation SUV replaces the long-serving V8 with a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V6 producing approximately 317kW and 700Nm. It also introduces a completely new platform, adaptive air suspension, a nine-speed automatic transmission, upgraded digital technology and a more premium interior design.
Importantly for existing Patrol owners, towing capacity is expected to remain unchanged at 3500kg despite the move away from V8 power.
As the final Y62 models leave dealer forecourts, the Patrol’s place in Nissan history appears secure. While the upcoming Y63 promises more technology and performance, the outgoing Y62 will likely be remembered as one of the last mainstream SUVs to pair traditional V8 power with genuine towing capability and everyday practicality.
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