75 Years of Nissan Patrol
75 Years Strong - The Evolution of the Nissan Patrol
Celebrating a legendary 4×4 — and the Patrols Raslarr proudly outfits.
2026 marks a milestone for one of the most iconic 4×4 vehicles on the planet — 75 years of Nissan Patrol. From its beginnings as a rugged utility wagon to its modern role as a luxury off-road SUV, the Patrol has earned its place in the hearts of adventurers, hard-working tradies, and off-road enthusiasts worldwide. At Raslarr Engineering, we’re proud to honour that legacy — and to have outfitted many Patrols with premium bar work to match their grit and capability.
A Legacy Born in 1951
The story of the Patrol begins in 1951, when Nissan introduced a no-nonsense, four-wheel-drive utility vehicle intended for tough terrain and demanding conditions.
Initially built as a short- or long-wheelbase utility wagon, the earliest Patrols were simple, rugged and ready for work — a textbook “go anywhere” vehicle.
Over the decades, the Patrol evolved generation after generation — adapting to the changing demands of off-road adventurers, families, farmers, tradies, and explorers. Each generation built on the last, adding more capability, comfort, and versatility.
Patrol Through the Years: A Brief Timeline
1951 – 1960 (4W60 / 1st Gen): The original Patrol laid the foundation — a rugged 4×4 wagon/utility built for tough terrain👇
1960–1980 (G60 Series / 2nd Gen): Expanded body styles and wheelbase options turned Patrol into a more versatile off-roader, exported outside Japan👇
1980's (160 MQ Series / 3rd Gen): The Patrol began to offer more comfort and practicality — blending off-road toughness with features suitable for everyday driving and family use👇
1987–1997 (GQ Series / Y60 / 4th Gen): Coil-spring suspension, improved engines and more refined drivetrains made Patrol a more comfortable, capable 4×4 — without losing its legendary durability👇
1997-2010 (GU Series / 5th Gen): Sleeker, more spacious bodies; stronger engines; modern suspension and driveline — turning Patrol into a true all-terrain SUV for families and adventurers alike👇
2010–present (Y62 Series / 6th Gen): The most advanced Patrol yet — offering powerful V8 engines, refined on-road comfort, full 4×4 capability, and contemporary amenities👇
Throughout 75 years, the Patrol has remained true to its roots: built for rugged terrain, reliable under stress, and adaptable to many roles.
Why the 75-Year Mark Matters to Raslarr
For a manufacturer like Raslarr Engineering — specialising in bar work such as bull bars, nudge-bars, rear bars, wheel carriers, rock sliders, side steps and off-road accessories — the Patrol’s longevity and reputation for toughness mean everything. Each generation of Patrol has carried its own character and demands. From old-school leaf-spring wagons to modern luxury off-road tourers, we’ve seen them all — and crafted bar work to match their needs.
The 75-year milestone is more than a birthday. It’s a celebration of decades of trust, endurance and the shared love of 4×4 adventure. It’s a badge of honour we’re proud to help uphold by offering robust, quality accessories that help keep Patrols safe and ready — whether for work, play, or adventure.
View the full range of our Nissan Patrol bar work here: https://www.raslarr.com.au/collections/nissan
Video: Check out our latest video of our V8 GU Nissan Patrol with our latest Dallas Bull Bar and V2 Rear Bar & Wheel Carrier
Looking Forward
75 years is a long road. But for the Patrol — and for off-road lovers everywhere — it’s just a milestone on a much bigger journey. As technology, design, and customer needs evolve, the Patrol continues to adapt — and so does Raslarr Engineering. We’ll be here to support the next generations with quality accessories, tough bar work, and the same passion that has powered 4×4 culture since 1951.
FAQ's
Q: When was the first Toyota LandCruiser released?
A: The first vehicle that would later evolve into the LandCruiser debuted in 1951, the same year the original Nissan Patrol rolled out — marking the start of one of the most enduring 4x4 legacies in automotive history, and Japan.
Build your Patrol the right way.
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