Driven in the UAE: 2021 Nissan Patrol Super Safari

Driven in the UAE: 2021 Nissan Patrol Super Safari

Introduced towards the end of 1951, the Nissan 4W60 — later named Patrol — had a relatively slow start. But over the decades, helped by the much improved G60, the MQ, and the GQ iterations, the Patrol nameplate established itself as a badge to be reckoned with among off-road enthusiasts. However, it was the fifth-generation Y61 version that truly cemented its now legendary status as a go anywhere, do anything utility vehicle. While it was popular in markets such as Australia and South America too, in the Middle East, the Nissan Patrol almost became an integral part of the landscape. This was especially so here in the UAE. The Y61 Patrol Safari was so popular among the country’s off-roading enthusiasts that it was safe at the time to assume that it would only evolve at a pace similar to that of the Mercedes Gelandewagen. It seemed too good to be altered, and was etched into the collective psyche of the region’s dune-bashers. However, as rival brands started churning out capable SUVs loaded with luxury trappings that appealed as much to the affluent city driver as it did to the daring explorer, the Safari started looking archaic. The modern, comfortable, luxurious,