The Nissan Patrol Y61 (known as the GU series in Australia) is a true off-road legend. Launched in 1997 to succeed the Y60, it retains the rustic and indestructible architecture that made the model famous: a massive ladder frame and two rigid axles. Designed for the worst conditions (Australian Outback, Middle Eastern deserts, UN missions), it offers exceptional off-road capabilities. While its road handling is clumsy and its comfort rustic, it compensates with extraordinary structural robustness. Be careful, however: while the 6-cylinder engines (petrol and diesel) are renowned as indestructible, the 3.0 Di 4-cylinder diesel of the early years severely tarnished the model's reputation in Europe due to frequent engine failures. The model underwent several facelifts (notably in 2004) and co
The Nissan Patrol Y61 is a paradox. It is one of the most solid 4x4s ever built regarding its chassis and transmissions (excellent ADAC breakdown rate of 1.2/1000). However, in Europe, it was mostly sold with the 3.0 Di engine (2000-2006), infamous for its catastrophic failures. Verdict by use: - If you are looking for a Y61 in Europe, absolutely favor a post-2007 model (3.0 CRD) which is much more reliable, or a 3.0 Di that has already been made reliable (full NADS kit, supported by invoices). - If you have access to import markets (Oceania, Middle East), the 4.2 Diesel (TD42) and 4.8 Petrol (TB48DE) versions fully justify the Patrol's reputation for indestructibility and constitute an exceptional purchase for raid or extreme off-roading.