The Nissan Patrol, known as the Armada in the North American market, embarked on its Y62 generation journey back in 2010, and remarkably, this full-size sport utility vehicle continues its presence in the automotive landscape as we move into 2025. While its successor, the Y63 generation, has already made its debut and is currently available in North America, the preceding Y62 model perseveres in the Australian market, slated for at least one more model year. In a noteworthy move before the complete generational transition, this enduring iteration of the Patrol is receiving a final set of updates, signifying its continued relevance and appeal in the Australian automotive sphere.
Before delving into the specifics of the recent enhancements, it is crucial to acknowledge the elements that remain steadfast in this final rendition of the Y62 Patrol. Notably, the Australian-specification model retains its robust V-8 engine, a characteristic that has long been associated with its power and capability. This naturally aspirated 5.6-liter engine continues to deliver a substantial output of 400 horsepower and a torque figure of 560 Newton-meters, ensuring ample performance for a variety of driving conditions. Enthusiasts may recall that Nissan had previously offered a high-performance Nismo variant of this generation of its flagship SUV in the Middle East, where the engine's power was elevated to an impressive 428 horsepower, showcasing the inherent potential of this powertrain. The 2025 Australian Patrol continues to be equipped with the familiar and reliable seven-speed automatic transmission, coupled with a capable and traditional four-wheel-drive system, reinforcing its off-road credentials and versatility.
While the automotive world increasingly embraces turbocharging technologies, it is important to note that the naturally aspirated engine configuration is not entirely a relic of the past within the Patrol/Armada lineage in 2025. As previously mentioned, the latest Y63 generation SUV, while featuring a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 as its primary engine offering, is also available in the Middle East with a naturally aspirated base engine. This entry-level option is a 3.8-liter V-6, which produces 316 horsepower and 386 Newton-meters of torque. This output represents a noticeable step down in power and torque compared to both the outgoing Y62 model's V-8 and the new generation's twin-turbo V-6, highlighting the distinct performance characteristics across different markets and generations.
For its concluding act in the Australian market, the aging Y62 Patrol, while perhaps considered "archaic" by some in comparison to newer models, is being modernized with the integration of contemporary technological features. The most significant upgrade is the inclusion of a large 12.3-inch infotainment system. This updated system boasts built-in satellite navigation, providing enhanced route guidance capabilities, as well as seamless wireless connectivity for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing for convenient integration of smartphone applications and services. Complementing this infotainment upgrade is a new seven-inch digital driver's display. This modern instrument cluster offers a wealth of vehicle information and includes a dedicated off-road monitor, providing drivers with crucial data and insights when venturing off the beaten path. Furthermore, the 2025 Patrol in Australia now features a wireless charging pad, offering a convenient and clutter-free solution for charging smartphones.
The Australian market is not anticipated to receive the next-generation Y63 Patrol until approximately the middle of the following year. By that time, the Y62 generation will have been in production for an impressive sixteen years, a testament to its enduring design and appeal. Interestingly, this extended lifecycle is not entirely unprecedented for the Nissan Patrol. The preceding Y61 generation, the fifth iteration of this iconic SUV, was sold from 1997 until 2023. This remarkable production run means that the fifth-generation Patrol was available to consumers for a staggering 26 years, underscoring the model's long-standing heritage and consistent demand across various global markets. The longevity of both the Y62 and its predecessor highlights Nissan's commitment to this robust and capable SUV lineage.