For more than 60 years, the Nissan Patrol has been part of New Zealand's four-wheel-driving landscape. From farm tracks and forestry roads to remote touring routes and towing duties, generations of Patrols have earned a reputation for durability, capability, and long-distance comfort.
Now, one chapter is coming to a close.
Nissan has confirmed production of the current Y62 Patrol will end in August 2026, marking the end of the V8-powered Patrol and the final opportunity for New Zealand buyers to secure a brand-new example before the arrival of the next-generation Y63 later this year.
The outgoing Y62 is powered by Nissan's 5.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol V8, producing 298kW and 560Nm. While much of the large SUV market has shifted towards downsized turbocharged engines and hybrid powertrains, the Patrol has remained one of the last vehicles available in New Zealand offering traditional V8 power in a full-size off-road wagon.
Introduced locally in 2013, the Y62 represented a significant shift for the Patrol nameplate. While earlier generations built their reputation through rugged simplicity and heavy-duty off-road credentials, the Y62 moved further into the premium SUV segment. Features such as fully independent suspension, Hydraulic Body Motion Control, and Nissan's Intelligent Rear View Mirror helped position it as both a capable touring vehicle and a comfortable family wagon.
Despite the increased refinement, the Patrol retained the attributes that have made it popular with New Zealand buyers. Strong towing performance, impressive off-road capability, and effortless highway cruising have seen the Y62 develop a loyal following among families, tourers, and towing enthusiasts alike.
According to Nissan, the Patrol's story in New Zealand stretches back to the 1960s when the second-generation G60 Datsun Patrol first arrived on local shores. Across five generations since then, the model has become one of the most recognisable names in the four-wheel-drive market.
"The Patrol has long been part of New Zealand's off-road landscape, and the Y62 has played a defining role in continuing that legacy," says Nissan Oceania Managing Director Steve Milette.
"Its 5.6-litre V8 is part of what has made this generation so beloved by enthusiasts, families and adventurers alike."
For many buyers, the V8 itself will be the biggest draw. In a market increasingly dominated by smaller turbocharged engines, the Patrol's large-capacity naturally aspirated V8 delivers its performance with a character that is becoming increasingly rare. Combined with the vehicle's size, towing ability, and reputation for durability, it is easy to see why many enthusiasts believe the Y62 could become a future classic.
That rarity will only increase when the all-new Y63 Patrol arrives in New Zealand later this year. Already revealed internationally, the next-generation model replaces the long-running V8 with a new 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 powertrain, bringing the Patrol into line with modern emissions and efficiency requirements while ushering in a new era for the nameplate.
For those wanting a new Patrol with eight cylinders under the bonnet, the clock is now ticking.
Nissan says stock of the Y62 remains available through dealerships nationwide, although availability will vary depending on grade and dealer inventory. Once those vehicles are sold, the V8 Patrol chapter will officially come to an end.
Whether you're a long-time Patrol enthusiast, a towing-focused buyer, or simply someone who appreciates a large-capacity naturally aspirated engine, this represents the final opportunity to purchase a new V8 Patrol from a New Zealand showroom.
After more than a decade in local showrooms and more than six decades of Patrol history in New Zealand, the Y62's run-out marks the end of one of the last great V8-powered off-road wagons. See ya mate!
Check out this epic clip Nissan Australia put together.
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