Patrol Top 4x4 in Australia for 2008

[canucksafari]

I see the Patrol made top 4x4 in Australia acording to 4wdaction. Seem to be more of a vote against independent suspsensions and the high cost for cup-holders in the 200 Series. Still nothing definite on a new model Patrol. Seems most expect them to follow Toyota on the suspension and cup holders - that is where the money is. Maybe rising fuel costs might send both manufacturers back to basics - I hope.

[BiG BoB]

Toyota do have the IFS/Cup holder option in the 100/200 series, the 70/78 series vehicles are for people who want live axles, and a minimum number of cupholders (and maximum amount of ability)

I'm fearful that the current Pathfinder / Navara family of Nissans will evolve into / replace the Patrols.

Sean

[canucksafari]

It sure is looking that way Sean. It will be a sad day when Nissan does this. They will cease to be considered a serious 4x4 maker when this happens. I don't see the 70/78 disappearing because they have quite the market for them around the world from developing countries to mines. In fact, you can buy new 70 series in Canada but they are strictly for off-road use and are mainly purchased by underground mines. I think they retail for around $100 Gs. Interstingly, I have been told that many of the 15 year old grey market Safaris from Japan are ending up in the North for mining and mineral exploration.

[BiG BoB]

Yeah, Nissan got a bit of help with their sales due to some safety regulations here, for a little while atleast..

A lot of mine sites brought in a requirement that 4wd's have airbags fitted, which 7x series cruisers dont (and according to toyota never will) have.

Nissan's started increasing in numbers, however Toyota seem to have successfully lobby'd to have the ban on Hilux's on mine sites overturned with their latest model. Previously Hilux's were known as "Rollux's" and were banned by many of the major mining companies....

Sean

[The BN Guy]

While I would prefer a Patrol, I'd still would accept a Hi-Lux as a gift!

[mauricio_28]

I'm fearful that the current Pathfinder / Navara family of Nissans will evolve into / replace the Patrols.

Sean

As I live in a market where the Navara is sold whereas the Patrol is not, I would welcome the move to make the Navara even more like the Patrol.