Old-timer Nissan Patrol updated

As strange as it sounds, Nissan is currently selling two different models of its popular large SUV, the Patrol.

The older model, known as the Y61 Patrol, has remained in production despite the release of the newer Y62 model Patrol in February 2013.

The newer Patrol is only manufactured with a 5.6-litre V8 petrol engine for right-hand drive markets, forcing Nissan Australia to retain the Y61 model Patrol, equipped with a diesel engine, to compete with Toyota’s ever-popular LandCruiser.

Nissan is now hoping to give the aging Y61 model Patrols a shot in the arm, with the introduction of the Patrol ST Plus Special Edition.

As well as retaining all the features found in the Patrol ST, the Special Edition gains leather accented seats, front power adjustable seats, satellite-navigation, reversing camera and custom floor mats.

Nissan has set a RRP of $58,690 for the manual and $62,090 for the automatic on the Patrol ST Plus Special Edition. This means the manual is $1300 and the automatic is $1700 more expensive than their Patrol ST counterparts. Maximum towing capacity remains at 2500-3200kg for the old Y61 model, depending on transmission, versus the more powerful Y62 Patrol's 3500kg.

Furthermore, the Nissan Patrol Cab Chassis DX also benefits from a few tweaks, with the addition of anti-lock brakes and the existing dual-mass flywheel clutch being replaced by a single-mass unit. The price of the Patrol Cab Chassis remains unchanged.

The changes to the Y61 Patrol range could be a response to declining sales of the older Patrol since the Y62 arrived, despite the newer Patrol's low level of acceptance in the market.