Nissan has repeatedly admitted to keeping models in production long after their prime in recent years

Nissan’s tendency to keep aging models in production is well-documented. The last-generation Frontier debuted in 2005 and remained on sale until 2021, while the GT-R, introduced in 2007, is still available as one of the oldest new cars in the U.S. market. Yet, another long-running Nissan makes the GT-R seem modern: the Y61-generation Patrol, now branded as the Patrol Safari to distinguish it from the newer model sold in the U.S. as the Armada.
To find a new Patrol Safari, you’ll need to visit the Middle East or certain South American countries, like Bolivia. Just as in 1997, when the Y61 debuted globally, the lineup still includes a two-door, five-seater and a four-door, seven-seat version. The 2025 Patrol Safari features some modernized styling cues, such as updated headlights, a revised grille, and flared wheel arches, but its core structure remains unchanged after more than 25 years. The latest brochure, last printed in 2020, lists just two paint options: White Pearl and Light Gold, creating a distinctive two-tone appearance.



Inside, the updates are minimal. The center stack has been refreshed, but the driver still gets a four-spoke steering wheel and an analog instrument cluster. Standard features in the Middle East include modern touches like front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, and Bluetooth connectivity. Leather upholstery and wood-look trim come standard, adding a touch of luxury.
Interestingly, the brochure highlights a “newly-designed pintle hook for towing disabled vehicles,” emphasizing the SUV’s rugged utility. Other off-road features include a front bumper-integrated tow hook and electric winch. In South America, the Patrol Safari is more basic, with 16-inch steel wheels, black plastic bumpers, and cloth seats as standard equipment.
Under the hood, the Patrol Safari is powered by a 4.8-liter straight-six engine producing 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. It comes with part-time four-wheel drive, a two-speed transfer case, and a five-speed manual transmission, while a five-speed automatic is available as an option. Unlike some off-roaders, such as the Mercedes-Benz G-Class or Jeep Wrangler, which evolve while retaining their roots, the Y61 Patrol has remained largely unchanged.


Pricing for the Patrol Safari in the Middle East isn’t officially listed, with Nissan’s website offering an “online quote” option. However, local classifieds show 2024 models with delivery mileage priced between AED230,000 and AED255,000 ($62,700–$69,500). For comparison, the current-generation Patrol starts at AED239,900 ($65,400) in the UAE. Pricing for Bolivia is also unavailable.
How much longer can the Y61 continue? It’s hard to say. Despite recurring rumors of its cancellation, this robust, no-nonsense SUV persists. It lacks hybrid technology or advanced driver aids but remains rugged, capable, and authentic—qualities that are still highly valued in certain markets.
For context, body-on-frame SUVs are extremely popular in the Middle East. In 2023, the Patrol was the second best-selling vehicle in the UAE, trailing only the Nissan Sunny sedan. Whether these sales figures combine the Y61 and current-generation models is unclear, but the Patrol’s dominance is evident.


The Y61 isn’t even the oldest SUV still on sale globally. Toyota’s 70-Series Land Cruiser, launched in 1984, remains available in Australia, while the Lada Niva turns 48 in 2025. Even the UAZ 469, introduced in 1971, is still sold new in some markets, with an electric variant now offered by a Czech company.
So, here’s to the Y61 Patrol—a testament to timeless design and durability. Long may it endure.