Nissan’s flagship SUV, the Patrol (Safari), which disappeared from the Japanese market in 2007, is scheduled to make a comeback in Japan in May 2027. The new Patrol, which will be making its return after nearly 20 years, is attracting attention as a full-fledged off-road SUV that will directly challenge the Toyota Land Cruiser 300.
In this article, we will provide detailed information for those considering purchasing the new Patrol that will help them decide whether or not they should wait.
New Patrol to be released in 2027: Basic specifications
Release date and market launch background
Nissan plans to fully redesign the new Patrol overseas in September 2024, with a release in Japan scheduled for May 2027. The reintroduction to the Japanese market is a strategic decision in response to the growing popularity of SUVs and the expansion of the premium SUV market.
Body size: Overwhelming presence
The new Patrol’s body size is significantly larger than its rival, the Land Cruiser 300.
Body size of the new Patrol
- Overall length: 5,350mm (400mm longer than the Land Cruiser 300)
- Overall width: 2,030mm (50mm wider than the Land Cruiser 300)
- Overall height: 1,945-1,955mm
- Wheelbase: 3,075mm (225mm larger than the Land Cruiser 300)
- Minimum ground clearance: 244-253mm
- Vehicle weight: Approximately 2,680 kg
Of particular note is the large body, measuring 5,350mm in length and 2,030mm in width. This is 400mm longer and 225mm longer than the Land Cruiser 300, providing ample interior space even with a three-row, eight-seat layout.
The All-New Patrol: 5 Reasons It’s Worth the Wait
Patrol NISMO
1. GT-R-derived V6 twin-turbo engine
The biggest attraction of the new Patrol is its extensive powertrain.
Engine lineup
- V8 3.8L naturally aspirated engine : 316ps/39.4kgm
- V6 3.5L twin-turbo engine : 425ps/71.4kgm (700Nm)
- V6 3.5L twin turbo (NISMO) : 502ps (495hp) / 71.4kgm
In particular, the V6 3.5L twin-turbo engine is a high-performance unit that applies technology cultivated in the Nissan GT-R, and delivers an overwhelming 425 horsepower. All vehicles are equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission, achieving smooth and powerful acceleration.
Comparison with the Land Cruiser 300
- Land Cruiser 300 3.5L gasoline turbo: 415ps/66.3kgm
- Patrol 3.5L Twin Turbo: 425ps/71.4kgm (+10ps/+5.1kgm)
The Patrol boasts specifications that exceed those of the Land Cruiser 300, and has exceptional power performance for a full-fledged off-road SUV.
2. The existence of the high-performance model “Patrol NISMO”
The new Patrol will also be available as a high-performance model tuned by NISMO.
Patrol NISMO Features
- V6 3.5L twin turbo tuned to 502ps (495hp)
- Dedicated exhaust system for a more impressive sound
- Body size: Overall length 5,295mm (+90mm), overall width 2,070mm (+40mm)
- 22-inch forged aluminum wheels
- Red brake calipers
- Sports suspension + specially tuned electric power steering
- Exclusive exterior and interior design
- Exclusive body color “NISMO Stealth Gray”
- Ground clearance: 195mm (-49mm compared to the base model)
The NISMO model is unique in that it maintains off-road performance while also allowing for sporty on-road driving. It far exceeds the power output of the Land Cruiser 300 GR SPORT.
3. Advanced interior equipped with the latest technology
The interior of the new Patrol is packed with the latest equipment befitting a premium SUV.
Main equipment
- Large 14.3-inch digital meter
- 14.3-inch infotainment display
- Built-in Google (supports Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play)
- 12.8-inch dual display for rear seats
- 12-speaker Klipsch premium audio system
- 8-way massage seat
- Panoramic roof
- Biometric cooling technology (infrared sensors scan passenger body temperature to optimize air conditioning)
- Zero Gravity Seat (equipped with support technology developed exclusively in Japan)
In particular, the built-in Google app is a groundbreaking feature that lets you use Google services directly without connecting a smartphone. The large 14.3-inch touchscreen makes it extremely easy to use.
4. Full-scale off-road performance and six drive modes
Despite its large body, the new Patrol offers serious off-road driving capabilities.
Off-road performance
- Approach angle: 32 degrees
- Departure angle: 25.5 degrees
- Ramp breakover angle: 24.5 degrees
- Minimum ground clearance: 244-253mm
- Rear locking differential
- Adaptive air suspension (height adjustment function)
Six drive modes
- STANDARD
- ECO (Fuel efficiency)
- SPORT (sports driving)
- SAND
- MUD (muddy land)
- ROCK (rocky area)
By making full use of these drive modes, you can handle any road condition, from paved roads to rough roads.
5. Spacious interior space with three rows of seats and eight seats
Taking advantage of its long wheelbase of 3,075mm (225mm longer than the Land Cruiser 300), the new Patrol has a spacious layout with three rows of seats for eight people.
Seat Function
- 1st row: Zero Gravity seats (with 8-way massage function)
- Second row: Slide function for easy access to the third row, can slide far back
- Third row: Ensuring ample space for adults to sit comfortably
While the Land Cruiser 300’s third-row seats are only used for auxiliary purposes, the Patrol’s third row is designed as a full-fledged living space. The fact that all seats are comfortable is a major attraction, even on long-distance family drives.
New Patrol vs. Land Cruiser 300: A thorough comparison
Its biggest rival in the Japanese market is, of course, the Toyota Land Cruiser 300. Let’s compare the two in detail.
Land Cruiser 300
Body size comparison
| item | Patrol | Land Cruiser 300 | difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| full length | 5,350mm | 4,950mm | +400mm |
| Overall width | 2,030mm | 1,980mm | +50mm |
| Overall height | 1,945mm | 1,925mm | +20mm |
| Wheelbase | 3,075mm | 2,850mm | +225mm |
| minimum ground clearance | 244-253mm | 244mm | Almost equal |
| Vehicle weight | Approximately 2,680 kg | Approximately 2,360kg | +320kg |
The Patrol exceeds the Land Cruiser 300 in all dimensions, with the difference in overall length and wheelbase being particularly noticeable.
Powertrain comparison
Patrol
- V8 3.8L NA: 316ps/39.4kgm
- V6 3.5L Turbo: 425ps/71.4kgm
- V6 3.5L Turbo (NISMO): 502ps/71.4kgm
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic
Land Cruiser 300
- V6 3.3L diesel turbo: 309ps/71.4kgm
- V6 3.5L gasoline turbo: 415ps/66.3kgm
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
The Patrol has a maximum output that exceeds that of the Land Cruiser 300, and the NISMO model has an even greater advantage. On the other hand, the Land Cruiser 300 has an advantage in that it has a diesel engine option.
Fuel efficiency comparison
Patrol
- V6 3.5L turbo: Approximately 7.7km/L (EPA value, US standard)
Land Cruiser 300
- V6 3.5L gasoline turbo: 7.9-8.0km/L (WLTC mode)
- V6 3.3L Diesel Turbo: 9.7km/L (WLTC mode)
In terms of fuel economy, the Land Cruiser 300 with its diesel engine has the advantage. However, the figures for the gasoline engines are almost the same.
Equipment and function comparison
Patrol Advantage
- Two 14.3-inch large displays (meter + infotainment)
- Built-in Google
- 12.8-inch dual display for rear seats
- Biometric Cooling Technology
- 8-way massage seat
- Six drive modes
- More interior space (especially the third row)
Advantages of the Land Cruiser 300
- Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (Advanced safety equipment)
- Toyota Teammate (including Advanced Drive)
- Diesel engine options
- Lightweight body (approximately 320 kg lighter)
- Extensive track record and reliability
- Extensive dealer network
Price comparison (estimated)
Patrol (estimated price)
- Base grade (V8 3.8L): 6-7 million yen
- Mid-grade (V6 3.5L): 8-9 million yen
- High-grade (V6 3.5L): 9 million to 9.8 million yen
- NISMO grade: 11-12 million yen
*Price in the UAE (United Arab Emirates) is 239,900-322,900 UAE dirhams (approximately 9.8 million to 13.2 million yen)
Land Cruiser 300 (current price)
- GX (3.3L diesel): 5.1 million yen
- AX (3.3L diesel): 6 million yen
- VX (3.5L gasoline): 7.3 million yen
- ZX (3.5L gasoline): 8 million yen
- GR SPORT (3.5L gasoline): 7.7 million yen
Considering the equipment included, the Patrol is expected to cost around 1.7 to 2.5 million yen more than a comparable grade Land Cruiser 300. However, the current Land Cruiser 300 has an extremely long delivery time and is sometimes traded at a premium price, so the actual price difference may be narrowing.
Characteristics of people who should wait for the new Patrol
The new Patrol is well worth the wait if you:
1. Those seeking overwhelming power
Those seeking exceptionally high power output for a full-fledged off-road SUV, from 425 hp (standard model) to 502 hp (NISMO model). The NISMO model in particular is ideal for those who want both off-road performance and sporty on-road driving.
2. People who value the latest technology
Those who want the latest infotainment equipment, such as Google built-in, a large 14.3-inch display, and dual rear-seat displays. Seamless integration is possible, especially for Android users.
3. People who need a large indoor space
This is a three-row, eight-seater vehicle for those who want ample space in all seats. It is also suitable for those who feel the third row of the Land Cruiser 300 is too cramped, or for those who prioritize rear seat comfort on long drives.
4. Those who seek differentiation and rarity
For those who want to make a different choice in a city filled with Land Cruiser 300s. The Patrol, which is making its comeback in Japan for the first time in about 20 years, is a rare car.
5. Nissan brand supporters
Nissan fans who have been waiting for Nissan’s flagship SUV. People who are attracted to the engine technology derived from the GT-R and NISMO tuning.
Characteristics of people who shouldn’t wait for the new Patrol
On the other hand, if you fall into the following categories, you may be better off choosing the current Land Cruiser 300 or another SUV:
1. People who need a car immediately
We’ll have to wait about a year and a half from now (the end of 2025) until the scheduled release date of May 2027. Furthermore, considering the delivery time after release, it’s likely that we won’t actually be able to get our hands on it until late 2027 or 2028.
2. Those who prioritize fuel efficiency
The Patrol’s fuel economy of approximately 7.7km/L (V6 3.5L turbo) is approximately 2km/L less than the Land Cruiser 300 diesel (9.7km/L). It is not suitable for those who drive a lot per year or who prioritize running costs.
Estimated annual fuel costs (if driving 10,000 km per year)
- Patrol (7.7km/L, regular gasoline priced at 170 yen/L): Approx. 220,780 yen
- Land Cruiser 300 Diesel (9.7km/L, assuming diesel 150 yen/L): Approximately 154,639 yen
- Annual difference: Approximately 66,141 yen
3. Those who want easy handling
With a length of 5,350mm and a width of 2,030mm, the large body can be difficult to maneuver on narrow Japanese roads and in parking lots. This is especially important for those who frequently drive in urban areas or who frequently use multi-story parking garages.
Parking lot size constraints
- General restrictions for multi-story parking garages: total length 5,000 mm, total width 1,850 mm, total height 2,000-2,100 mm
- The Patrol exceeds the limit in both length and width, so it cannot fit into many multi-story parking lots.
4. Those who want to keep maintenance costs down
The Patrol is a large SUV, so maintenance costs are high.
Main maintenance costs (annual estimate)
- Automobile tax (3.5L engine): 66,500 yen
- Weight tax (vehicle weight over 2.5t): Approximately 24,600 yen (49,200 yen for 2 years)
- Compulsory automobile liability insurance: Approximately 11,500 yen (23,000 yen for 2 years)
- Optional insurance: 100,000-150,000 yen (varies depending on age and grade)
- Fuel costs: Approximately 220,000 yen (10,000 km per year)
- Maintenance costs: Approximately 200,000 yen (tire changes, oil changes, etc.)
- Vehicle inspection fee: Approximately 300,000 yen (every two years, varies depending on maintenance)
Total annual maintenance costs: Approximately 600,000-650,000 yen
In addition, large 22-inch tires are expensive, costing around 70,000 to 100,000 yen each, so replacing four tires will cost 300,000 to 400,000 yen.
5. Those who require a diesel engine
The Patrol does not have a diesel engine option, so those looking for fuel efficiency, powerful torque from low revolutions, and the benefits of diesel prices should choose the Land Cruiser 300 diesel model.
6. Those who place the highest priority on track record and reliability
The Land Cruiser is a reliable SUV with a history of over 70 years and a proven track record around the world. The new Patrol was only fully redesigned in 2024, so its long-term reliability is still unknown.
Strategies for different buying periods: When should you buy?
Pattern 1: Purchased immediately after release in May 2027
merit
- Get the latest models before anyone else
- The period of greatest scarcity
- Potential for high resale value
Disadvantages
- Risk of initial defects
- Possibility of long delivery times (orders flood in immediately after release)
- There is little room for price negotiation
- Possibly limited option settings
Recommendation level : ★★★☆☆
Pattern 2: Purchase between the end of 2027 and 2028
merit
- You can purchase a model after the initial defects have been fixed.
- You can refer to actual user reviews
- Delivery times become stable
- Extensive option settings
Disadvantages
- You’ll have to wait at least six months after release
- The scarcity has decreased since the release
Recommendation level : ★★★★★ (best balance)
Pattern 3: Purchase after 2028 (used or new)
merit
- As they begin to circulate in the used car market, the number of options increases.
- There is room for price negotiation
- Long-term reliability data is accumulated
- Possibility to choose annually improved models
Disadvantages
- The freshness of a new car is lost
- If it’s popular, the used price may not drop.
Recommendation level : ★★★☆☆
Option 4: Buy a Land Cruiser 300 now
merit
- Available immediately (delivery time aside)
- Proven track record and reliability
- Diesel engine options
- Extensive dealer network
Disadvantages
- You’ll have to give up the appeal of patrol
- Currently, delivery times are extended to 1-2 years
- There are also some transactions at premium prices
Recommended : ★★★☆☆ (only if urgent)
Five points to note when purchasing the new Patrol
1. Secure parking
It is essential to secure a parking space that can accommodate the large body, which is 5,350 mm in length and 2,030 mm in width.
Additional Info
- Size of your home parking space (recommended: width 2.5m or more, length 6m or more)
- Nearby parking lots (multi-story parking lots are almost impossible)
- Parking lot at work
- Parking lots at commercial facilities you frequently visit
It can be difficult to secure a monthly parking space, especially if you live in an urban area. We recommend that you inquire with a real estate company or parking lot management company in advance.
2. Fuel economy and running costs
If you drive a lot of miles per year, your fuel costs will be higher.
Fuel cost estimates based on annual mileage (V6 3.5L turbo, 7.7km/L, regular 170 yen/L)
- 5,000km per year: Approximately 110,390 yen
- 10,000km per year: Approximately 220,780 yen
- 15,000km per year: Approximately 331,170 yen
- 20,000km per year: Approximately 441,560 yen
For those who drive more than 15,000km per year, the Land Cruiser 300 with its diesel engine is more advantageous in terms of running costs.
3. Resale value
This is the first time the Patrol has been back in the Japanese market in about 20 years, so its resale value is unknown.
Factors that affect resale value
- Sales volume (the rarer the better)
- Nissan brand market evaluation
- Trends of competing vehicles (Land Cruiser 300)
- Initial quality and long-term reliability
- Popularity in overseas markets
The Land Cruiser boasts a high resale value worldwide, but the Patrol is also popular in the Middle East and other regions, so it is thought that a certain level of resale value can be expected.
4. Dealer network and maintenance
Nissan has an extensive dealer network, but there may be only a limited number of repair shops that can handle large SUVs like the Patrol.
Additional Info
- Your nearest Nissan dealer (especially one that specializes in high-performance cars)
- Availability of lifts and pits for large vehicles
- Maintenance system for NISMO models
- Regular maintenance costs
Especially if you are considering a NISMO model, we recommend that you check in advance whether the dealer is NISMO certified.
5. Insurance premiums
Large SUVs also tend to be more expensive to insure.
Factors that affect insurance premiums
- Vehicle price (high at 9-12 million yen)
- Vehicle weight (over 2,680 kg)
- Repair costs (parts and labor costs are high)
- Theft risk
- Driver’s age and grade
In particular, for young people and those with low insurance grades, annual premiums may exceed 200,000 to 300,000 yen. We recommend getting quotes from multiple insurance companies and comparing them.
Should I consider switching from a Land Cruiser 300?
Another important decision point for those who already own a Land Cruiser 300 is whether they should switch to the new Patrol.
Who should consider switching?
1. Those seeking higher output
- Land Cruiser 300: 415ps → Patrol: 425ps (+10ps)
- NISMO model: 502ps (+87ps)
2. People who are attracted to the latest equipment and technology
- Google Built-in
- 14.3-inch large display x 2
- Biometric Cooling Technology
3. Those who need more indoor space
- Wheelbase: +225mm
- Improved comfort for third-row seats
4. Those seeking rarity and differentiation
- The Land Cruiser 300 is so popular that we want to differentiate it.
- Finding value in the rarity of patrols
People who should not transfer
1. Those who are satisfied with the reliability of the Land Cruiser 300
- There is no problem with the Land Cruiser 300 I already own.
- Want to avoid the risk of initial defects in new cars
2. People who prioritize fuel efficiency (especially diesel model owners)
- Land Cruiser 300 Diesel: 9.7km/L
- Patrol: 7.7km/L (-2.0km/L)
3. Those who find switching costs a burden
- Switching from a Land Cruiser 300 to a Patrol costs several million yen
- The Land Cruiser 300 has a high resale value, but the outlay is high.
4. Those waiting for delivery of the Land Cruiser 300
- If you’ve waited a long time to get your hands on a Land Cruiser 300, you should enjoy it first.
Competitive comparison: Should you consider other options?
In addition to the new Patrol, there are other attractive options in the premium large SUV market.
Lexus LX600
Price : 12.5-13 million yen
merit
- The luxury and reliability of the Lexus brand
- Shared platform with Land Cruiser 300
- Well-equipped and high-quality interior
Disadvantages
- Even more expensive than the Patrol (approximately 3-4 million yen difference)
- Long delivery time
Comparison results : For those with a budget who value the value of the Lexus brand
Mazda CX-80
Price : 4.6-6.3 million yen
merit
- About half the price of a patrol
- 3-row seating for 7 people
- High-quality driving performance from a straight-six engine
- Easy to handle size
Disadvantages
- Off-road performance is inferior to the Patrol
- Small body size
- Brand power is not as strong as Patrol
Comparison result : For those who want a 3-row SUV at a reasonable price
BMW X7 / Mercedes-Benz GLS
Price : 12-20 million yen
merit
- German premium brand status
- Refined driving performance
- Advanced Equipment
Disadvantages
- Off-road performance is inferior to the Patrol
- High maintenance costs
- Long delivery time
Comparison result : For those who prioritize on-road riding and prefer European brands
Range Rover / Range Rover Sport
Price : 15-25 million yen
merit
- Both off-road and on-road
- The appeal of British premium brands
- Luxurious interior
Disadvantages
- Extremely expensive
- Concerns about reliability (reputation for high failure rate)
- High maintenance costs
Comparison : For those on a budget who prefer British brands
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. How long will it take to deliver the new Patrol?
A. It is scheduled to be released in May 2027, but the delivery date after release has not yet been determined. If it proves popular, there may be a one- to two-year wait, just like with the Land Cruiser 300. Early reservations are recommended.
Q2. Are there any differences between the Japanese and overseas models?
A: Details have not been announced, but it has been revealed that the car will feature equipment unique to Japan (such as zero gravity seats). It is also expected that there will be differences in compliance with safety standards and whether it will be available with left-hand or right-hand drive.
Q3. Can I buy NISMO models in Japan?
A. Yes, the NISMO model is scheduled to be introduced in Japan. The price is expected to be around 11-12 million yen, and it may be produced in limited quantities.
Q4. When can I test drive the car?
A. Test drive vehicles are expected to be available at Nissan dealerships nationwide from around spring 2027. The official start date for test drives will likely be announced one to two months before the release.
Q5. Which is better compared to the Land Cruiser 300?
A: It depends on the application.
- Patrol is suitable for : those who prioritize power, the latest equipment, need spacious interior space, and seek rarity
- The Land Cruiser 300 is suitable for : People who prioritize fuel efficiency (diesel), a proven track record and reliability, and easy handling
Q6. What about buying a used previous model (Y62)?
A. The previous model (2010-2024 model) was not released in Japan, so it is only available as a parallel import. Prices range from 6 million to 12 million yen, but many are left-hand drive, and there are concerns about parts availability and maintenance. It would be wise to wait for the new model.
Q7. Are there any plans for electrification (hybrid/EV)?
A. At this time, there are no plans to offer a hybrid or EV version of the new Patrol. However, there is a possibility that an electrified model may be added in the future.
Q8. Are there a wide variety of custom parts available?
A. We expect there will be few custom parts available immediately after the release, but considering the popularity in the Middle East, we expect the number of parts available will gradually increase, mainly from overseas. Custom parts for the Japanese market will change depending on the number of units sold.
Summary: Should you wait for the new Patrol?
In conclusion, whether you should wait for the new Patrol or not depends on your priorities and lifestyle .
People who should “wait” for the new Patrol (Recommended: ★★★★★)
- Those seeking overwhelming power and the latest technology
- Those who need a spacious interior (especially the third row)
- Those who value rarity and differentiation
- Those who are attracted to the Nissan brand and NISMO
- Those who can afford to wait until 2027
- Those who have a parking environment that can accommodate large bodies
- Those who can afford the high maintenance costs
People who “shouldn’t wait” for the new Patrol (recommended alternatives such as the Land Cruiser 300)
- If you need a car immediately
- Those who prioritize fuel efficiency (especially diesel)
- Those looking for easy handling
- Those who want to reduce maintenance costs
- Those who place the utmost importance on track record and reliability
- Those who mainly use the vehicle in urban areas and have limited parking space
Final Recommendations
The new Patrol is a very attractive new option for a full-fledged off-road SUV in the Japanese market . In particular, it has unique appeal that the Land Cruiser 300 does not have, such as a V6 twin-turbo engine derived from the GT-R, built-in Google, and the existence of a NISMO model.
On the other hand, with a length of over 5.3m and a width of over 2m, its large body may be difficult to handle on Japanese roads. Also, as this is the first time it has been brought back to Japan in about 20 years, its long-term reliability and resale value are still unknowns.
Overall rating: ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5)
The new Patrol is an attractive SUV that’s worth waiting for. However, it’s not for everyone, and is best suited to those who understand the disadvantages of large SUVs and can make the most of their benefits.
There’s about a year and a half until the car goes on sale in May 2027. More detailed information will likely be released during that time. We strongly recommend taking a test drive just before the car goes on sale and seeing the actual car before making your final decision.
