The Nissan Patrol Y60, renowned for its legendary off-road prowess and unyielding reliability, has carved an indelible mark in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts across Europe and Australia. First introduced in the late 1980s, this iconic SUV has continuously evolved, remaining a popular choice for adventurers, off-road enthusiasts, and families seeking a robust, go-anywhere vehicle. In this article, we delve into the specifics of the Nissan Patrol Y60 models sold in Europe and Australia, exploring their engine types, fuel consumption, towing capability, departure and arrival angles, gearbox, and, most importantly, their unparalleled off-road capabilities.


Petrol Engines:

In addition to the 4.2-liter inline-six petrol engine, the Nissan Patrol Y60 offered another compelling option – the 3.0-liter inline-six petrol engine. This powerplant provided a different driving experience with its characteristics. The 3.0-liter petrol engine delivered approximately 160 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. Although slightly less torque compared to the 4.2-liter engine, the 3.0-liter variant compensated with smoother power delivery and improved revving capabilities, making it a favorite for those seeking a more refined and responsive on-road performance.


Diesel Engines:

Apart from the 4.2-liter inline-six diesel engine, the Nissan Patrol Y60 also offered a 2.8-liter inline-six diesel engine, catering to the needs of fuel-conscious adventurers. The 2.8-liter diesel engine delivered approximately 113 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. Despite the slightly lower power output, this engine excelled in fuel efficiency, granting the Patrol Y60 an even greater range for long journeys and reducing the number of refueling stops in remote locations. The 2.8-liter diesel engine showcased Nissan's commitment to providing a diverse range of options, allowing drivers to choose the powerplant that best suited their specific requirements.


Fuel Consumption:

With the addition of the 2.8-liter diesel and 3.0-liter petrol engines to the lineup, the Nissan Patrol Y60 provided a range of fuel consumption figures to cater to different driving preferences. The 3.0-liter petrol engine achieved an average fuel consumption of approximately 12-14 miles per gallon (MPG), offering a fair balance between power and efficiency. On the other hand, the 2.8-liter diesel engine outshone its petrol counterparts with an impressive fuel efficiency of around 15-17 MPG, making it the go-to choice for those prioritizing economical and environmentally-conscious travel.


Gearbox:

The transmission is a critical component in off-road vehicles, and Nissan ensured that the Patrol Y60 came equipped with a reliable and robust gearbox. Most models featured a 5-speed manual transmission, providing drivers with full control over gear selection and enabling precise maneuvering on rugged terrains. This manual gearbox not only added to the driving experience but also contributed to the overall durability and simplicity of the vehicle.


Towing Capability:

Both the 2.8-liter diesel and 3.0-liter petrol engines contributed admirably to the towing capabilities of the Nissan Patrol Y60. When properly equipped, the Patrol Y60 equipped with the 2.8-liter diesel engine could tow up to 7,700 lbs (approximately 3,500 kg), aligning with the capabilities of its petrol-powered counterparts. This ensured that no matter the engine choice, drivers could confidently haul heavy loads and equipment, making the Y60 an ideal companion for adventurers seeking to take their home-on-wheels or equipment to distant locales.


Departure and Arrival Angle:

Off-roading often demands the ability to overcome steep inclines and descents without scraping the undercarriage or bumpers. The Nissan Patrol Y60 excelled in this aspect, thanks to its commendable departure and arrival angles. With an impressive departure angle of around 30 degrees and an arrival angle of approximately 39 degrees, the Y60 could easily surmount obstacles, ensuring no terrain was too challenging for this rugged adventurer.


Off-Road Capability:

With the 2.8-liter diesel and 3.0-liter petrol engines available in the Nissan Patrol Y60 lineup, the off-road capabilities of this legendary vehicle were further enhanced. The 2.8-liter diesel engine's torque-rich nature complemented the Y60's already impressive off-road prowess, allowing for improved low-end grunt, especially when tackling steep inclines and challenging obstacles. On the other hand, the 3.0-liter petrol engine's smooth power delivery contributed to precise control during off-road maneuvers, providing drivers with the finesse needed to navigate rough terrains with confidence.


The Nissan Patrol Y60, regardless of the engine choice, retained its remarkable off-road DNA, boasting the same ladder-frame chassis, four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case, and solid axles that made it a legend in the off-road world. The combination of these features, along with limited-slip differentials and a reliable suspension setup, ensured that the Y60 could handle the most demanding off-road conditions with ease and grace.


The Patrol Y60 boasted a reliable suspension setup, featuring solid axles both front and rear. This contributed to increased wheel articulation, allowing the vehicle to maintain tire contact with uneven surfaces for enhanced traction. Its limited-slip differentials further improved grip on slippery and rocky surfaces, ensuring maximum control in challenging conditions.


The Nissan Patrol Y60, with its diverse range of petrol and diesel engine choices, remained an unrivaled off-road icon. The 2.8-liter diesel engine excelled in fuel efficiency, catering to the needs of environmentally-conscious adventurers, while the 3.0-liter petrol engine provided a refined on-road experience. Both engines, when paired with the Y60's exceptional towing capability, departure and arrival angles, gearbox, and off-road capabilities, solidified the Patrol Y60's status as the ultimate choice for those seeking to venture into uncharted territories and embrace the spirit of exploration and adventure.


The Nissan Patrol Y60 picture was taken by OSX

An article about the history of Nissan Patrol can be found here.