Nissan Patrol has become one of the longest-running continuous automotive nameplates as it celebrates its 70th anniversary in 2021.
Since its arrival in Australia, and through five major generational changes, Nissan has sold more than 238,000 Patrols locally.
Patrol has been a mainstay for off-roading enthusiasts, adventurous families and overland tourers since it was first released in 1951, collecting a cabinet of trophies and assisting a number of milestone explorations across the globe along the way.
Australia has played a significant role in the Patrol’s heritage, becoming one of the first international markets outside of Japan when it arrived locally in 1961 with the introduction of the second-generation G60 Datsun Patrol.
One year later, a Nissan Patrol was the first motorised vehicle to cross the Simpson Desert when geologist Reg Sprigg, his wife Griselda and children Marg and Doug, charted a path over more than 1100 sand dunes.
It has also scored more than 17 major Australian motoring awards from specialist 4×4 publications and mainstream media outlets, chalked up a record 15 consecutive Australian Off-Road Championships and has been the outright winner of the grueling Australasian Safari four times.
“The Patrol has been an integral part in the success of Nissan here in Australia and, over the same time, has opened many new pathways for Australians to explore this rugged country thanks to its renowned off-road abilities and dependability,” said Adam Paterson, the Managing Director of Nissan Motor Company Australia.
