Nissan’s Legendary Safari SUV Is Coming Back After Nearly Two Decades

Nearly 20 years after disappearing from showrooms, Nissan's legendary Safari SUV is preparing for a comeback. The automaker has confirmed that sales of the Patrol will begin in Japan in 2027, marking the return of a nameplate that has deep roots in the company's history.

The Patrol first debuted in 1951, but when the third generation arrived in 1980, Nissan marketed the rugged SUV in its home market under the Safari badge. Production for Japan ended in 2007, although the model continued to evolve overseas and remained one of the brand’s most recognizable off-road vehicles.

Now Nissan is bringing the full-size SUV back to Japanese buyers under its original Patrol name. The Japanese-market version is expected to make its public debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon in January. So far, the company has not revealed whether the domestic model will receive any significant changes, but major differences from the global version appear unlikely.

The current Patrol is offered with a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 producing 316 horsepower. Buyers can also opt for a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 rated at 425 hp, while the high-performance Patrol Nismo pushes output to 495 hp. All three powertrains could remain available when the SUV returns to Japan.

Every engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel-drive system featuring multiple terrain modes. The latest Patrol measures 210.6 inches long, 79.9 inches wide, and 76.4 inches tall, while riding on a 121.1-inch wheelbase.

Japanese media reports suggest pricing could start at around 10 million yen, which converts to approximately $69,000 at current exchange rates.

Off-road capability remains one of the Patrol’s biggest selling points. The SUV comes equipped with a two-speed transfer case, an electronically locking rear differential, adaptive air suspension, and Nissan’s e-Damper system, which continuously adjusts damping force based on road conditions.

For serious trail enthusiasts, Nissan also offers the Patrol Pro-4X. This version adds wider fender flares, more durable bumpers, extra underbody protection, and off-road tires designed to tackle tougher terrain.

The Patrol's return reflects a broader trend among Japanese automakers, which have recently begun reintroducing models that had long been sold exclusively outside the country. Nissan recently brought the Kicks crossover back to its home market, and now one of its most storied SUVs is set to follow.