The Nissan Patrol V 5-door (Y61, facelift 2004) equipped with the 4.8-liter (251 hp) engine and automatic transmission represents a significant iteration of Nissan’s long-running, body-on-frame SUV. Produced from 2004 to 2016, this version of the Y61 Patrol was primarily aimed at markets outside of North America, where the Patrol was not officially sold during this period. It served as a robust and capable vehicle for families and those requiring serious off-road performance, blending practicality with a reputation for durability. This particular variant occupied a mid-to-high range position within the Y61 lineup, offering a balance between power, comfort, and capability, appealing to buyers who didn’t necessarily need the larger displacement engines offered in some trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Patrol |
| Generation | Patrol V 5-door (Y61, facelift 2004) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.8 (251 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 106.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 178.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 251 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 52.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 3600 rpm, 309.78 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | TB48DE |
| Engine displacement | 4759 cm3, 290.41 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 99.5 mm, 3.92 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 102 mm, 4.02 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.8 l, 7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt |
| Coolant | 12.5 l, 13.21 US qt | 11 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2350-2375 kg, 5180.86 – 5235.98 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 3080 kg, 6790.24 lbs. |
| Max load | 705-730 kg, 1554.26 – 1609.37 lbs. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 95 l, 25.1 US gal | 20.9 UK gal |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg, 220.46 lbs. |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg, 7716.18 lbs. |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg, 1653.47 lbs. |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg, 220.46 lbs. |
| Length | 5080 mm, 200 in. |
| Width | 1940 mm, 76.38 in. |
| Height | 1855 mm, 73.03 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2970 mm, 116.93 in. |
| Front track | 1605 mm, 63.19 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1625 mm, 63.98 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 215 mm, 8.46 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.2 m, 40.03 ft. |
| Approach angle | 37° |
| Departure angle | 31° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 27° |
| Climb angle | 38.7° |
| Wading depth | 700 mm, 27.56 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 275/70 R16; 275/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 16; 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Patrol variant is the TB48DE, a 4.8-liter inline-six cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, a staple of the Y61 Patrol, is known for its robustness and relatively simple design. It features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, employing a multi-port fuel injection system. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain contributes to reasonable power output for its displacement. The 9:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and the ability to run on lower octane fuels, important in many of the markets where the Patrol was sold. The automatic transmission is a 5-speed unit, designed to handle the engine’s torque and the vehicle’s substantial weight. While not known for being particularly fuel-efficient, the transmission provides smooth shifts and ease of use, particularly in off-road situations.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.8-liter engine paired with the automatic transmission delivers adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is respectable, but the Patrol’s weight (2350-2375 kg) is always noticeable. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for torque delivery rather than outright speed, making it well-suited for towing and off-road driving. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offers less driver engagement but greater convenience. Against higher-output variants, such as those with larger displacement engines, this 4.8L automatic feels less powerful, especially when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. However, it provides a more relaxed driving experience on the highway and in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Y61 Patrol, even in facelifted form, wasn’t typically lavishly equipped, focusing instead on functionality and durability. Standard features on the 4.8L automatic typically included air conditioning, power windows, power steering, and an AM/FM radio. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, woodgrain interior trim, and upgraded audio systems. The interior upholstery was generally cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Optional extras often included a sunroof, rear air conditioning, and a limited-slip differential.
Chassis & Braking
The Patrol’s chassis is a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing excellent strength and off-road capability. The suspension consists of coil springs and rigid axles front and rear, with transverse stabilizers to reduce body roll. Braking is handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, assisted by an ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The rear drums were sometimes found on lower trim levels. The robust suspension and braking system are designed to cope with the vehicle’s weight and the demands of off-road use. Ground clearance is a generous 215mm (8.46 inches), further enhancing its off-road prowess.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Patrol Y61, including the 4.8L automatic variant, was generally well-received in markets where it was sold. Critics praised its durability, off-road capability, and spacious interior. However, the engine was sometimes criticized for its relatively low fuel economy and lack of refinement compared to more modern SUVs. Compared to other trims in the Y61 lineup, the 4.8L automatic offered a good balance between performance and cost. The smaller engine options were more fuel-efficient but lacked the power for serious towing or off-roading, while the larger engines were more expensive and consumed more fuel.
Legacy
The TB48DE engine, when properly maintained, is known for its longevity. The Y61 Patrol, as a whole, has developed a strong reputation for reliability, and well-maintained examples continue to command reasonable prices in the used car market. The 4.8L automatic variant remains a popular choice for those seeking a capable and durable off-road vehicle. Parts availability is generally good, although some components may be becoming increasingly difficult to source as the vehicle ages. The Patrol Y61, and this variant in particular, represents a classic example of a rugged, no-nonsense SUV that prioritizes capability and durability over luxury and refinement.
