The 2026 Nissan Patrol Y63, unveiled in Abu Dhabi in September 2024 and set to hit Australian showrooms in late 2026, is a bold leap forward for Nissan’s iconic 4WD. With a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 (317kW/700Nm), a tech-packed cabin, and refined handling, it aims to dethrone the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series. Priced at an estimated $100,000–$120,000 AUD (up 10–15% from the Y62’s $88,900–$105,160), it’s a premium option for Outback adventurers and suburban families. But despite its upgrades, the Y63 has drawbacks that might make you think twice. Drawing from Chasing Cars’ test in Dubai’s 43°C heat, web insights (e.g., Drive, CarExpert), and X chatter, here are the top 5 reasons to avoid the 2026 Nissan Patrol Y63 in Australia, plus a buyer’s guide to help you decide if it’s worth the hype—or if you should stick with the Y62 or a rival.
Top 5 Reasons to Avoid the Nissan Patrol Y63
1. Loss of the Beloved V8’s Soul
The Y63 ditches the Y62’s 5.6L V8 (298kW/560Nm) for a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 (317kW/700Nm), gaining 19kW and 140Nm for better low-end grunt and a ~6.5s 0–100km/h sprint (per CarExpert). But the V8’s throaty roar, a hallmark of the Patrol’s character, is gone, replaced by a “sterile” V6 sound, as some X users lament. The V8’s high-revving charm resonated with Aussie off-roaders, and Nissan’s own execs, like Andrew Humberstone, tout the Y62 as “the one to keep” for its V8 legacy. While the V6 is torquier and paired with a smoother 9-speed auto, it lacks the emotional pull that made the Patrol a legend.
Why Avoid? If you love the V8’s raw character, the Y63 feels like a downgrade, despite the numbers.
2. Disappointing Fuel Economy and Range
Nissan claims a 24% efficiency gain, but real-world tests show the Y63’s V6 achieves 10L/100km highway and 15L/100km urban—only a 12% improvement over the Y62’s 14.4L/100km, per Chasing Cars. The 97L fuel tank (down 30% from 140L) limits range to ~650–970km, a pain for Outback tourers crossing vast distances like the Gibb River Road. The Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series (8.9L/100km, 110L tank) offers better efficiency and range, as does the Ford Everest (8.5L/100km).
Why Avoid? Thirstier than diesel rivals and a smaller tank make the Y63 less practical for long-haul adventures.
3. Steep Price Hike Reduces Value
The Y63’s estimated $100,000–$120,000 AUD price (Ti to Platinum trims) reflects a 10–15% increase over the Y62 ($88,900–$105,160), with a potential Nismo variant pushing ~$130,000, per Drive. While US pricing for the Armada (Y63 equivalent) starts at ~$89,500 AUD, Australian taxes and specs could inflate costs. The Y62 offers V8 power for less, and the Ford Everest ($67,990–$77,000) undercuts the Y63 significantly. Even the LandCruiser 300 ($97,990–$146,910) feels pricier but justifies it with diesel efficiency.
Why Avoid? The Y63’s premium price feels steep when rivals offer better value or the Y62 delivers similar capability cheaper.
4. Cramped Third Row and Limited Boot Space
The Y63 boasts a 30% wider rear section (5,205mm long, 2,030mm wide), but the third row remains kid-only, with limited legroom compared to car-based SUVs like the Mazda CX-90 (1,000L boot). The 800L boot (5-seat mode) shrinks to ~300L with all seats up, trailing the LandCruiser 300 (1,100L/400L). Families needing space for camping gear or school runs in Brisbane will find it lacking. X posts note the “cramped” third row as a dealbreaker for large families.
Why Avoid? If you need true 8-seat practicality, the Y63 falls short of rivals.
5. Air Suspension Limits Aftermarket Upgrades
The Y63’s standard air suspension (70mm height adjustment) enhances ride quality and off-road clearance, but it’s a headache for Australia’s aftermarket crowd. As BAW Auto notes, air suspension (like the RAM 1500’s) restricts suspension lifts and GVM upgrades, crucial for heavy-duty outback builds. The 3,500kg GVM matches the Y62 but limits payload for overlanders compared to rivals like the LandCruiser 300.
Why Avoid? Serious off-roaders modding their rigs for the Simpson Desert will find the Y63’s air suspension restrictive.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Nissan Patrol Y63 | Toyota LandCruiser 300 | Ford Everest Sport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (AUD) | $100,000–$120,000 (est.) | $97,990–$146,910 | $67,990–$77,000 |
| Engine | 3.5L twin-turbo V6 (317kW/700Nm) | 3.3L twin-turbo diesel V6 (227kW/700Nm) | 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel (184kW/600Nm) |
| Fuel Economy | 10–15L/100km | 8.9L/100km | 8.5L/100km |
| Boot Space | 800L (5-seat) / 300L (8-seat) | 1,100L / 400L | 898L / 259L |
| Towing | 3,500kg | 3,500kg | 3,500kg |
The Y63 excels in power but lags in efficiency, space, and value.
Buyer’s Guide: Who Should Skip It?
- V8 Purists: The Y62’s 5.6L V8 offers iconic sound and proven reliability for less—grab it before production ends in 2026.
- Long-Distance Tourers: Diesel rivals like the LandCruiser 300 or Everest offer better fuel economy and range for Outback treks.
- Budget Buyers: The Ford Everest or Y62 provide similar off-road capability at a lower price.
- Large Families: The CX-90 or LandCruiser 300 have roomier third rows and bigger boots.
- Consider If: You want cutting-edge tech, a plush cabin, and V6 torque for urban and off-road use. Check Nissan Australia or carsguide.com.au for 2026 updates.
- X Posts: Sentiment on Nismo and V6 performance
