Mitsubishi Pajero or Nissan Patrol: comparison of legendary SUVs

Choice between Mitsubishi Pajero And Nissan Patrol is not just buying a car, but choosing a philosophy. Both SUVs have a rich history, cult status and an army of loyal fans. But which is better for your needs: Japanese reliability Pajero with its legendary frame or powerful Patrol with American roots and impeccable cross-country ability?

These machines were created for different tasks: Pajero - for those who value the balance between comfort and off-road capabilities, and Patrol - for those who are ready to sacrifice efficiency for the sake of absolute reliability in extreme conditions. In this article we will look at technical specifications, secondary market prices, fuel consumption, reliability and even subjective sensations from control - so you can make informed choices.

Let's not hide: both cars have been out of production for a long time (the last Pajero rolled off the assembly line in 2021, Patrol Y62 - in 2023), but their popularity in the secondary market is only growing. Why? Because new crossovers cannot offer the same level of reliability and maintainability. Let's figure out which of these two legends is right for you.

1. History of models: from rallies to city streets

Mitsubishi Pajero debuted in 1982 and immediately gained a reputation as one of the most off-road SUVs in the world. His fame strengthened after his victories in Paris-Dakar rally (12 victories!), and the third generation (1999–2006) became a real icon among off-road enthusiasts. The last, fourth generation (Pajero IV, 2006–2021) lost its frame structure in favor of a monocoque body, which caused controversy among fans, but made the car more comfortable for the city.

Nissan Patrol, in turn, appeared back in 1951 as a licensed copy of the American Willys Jeep. But he gained real fame in the 1980s with the release Patrol Y60 — a frame monster with an indestructible suspension. Modern Patrol Y62 (2010–2023) is already a luxury SUV with an engine VK56VD 5.6 and an automatic transmission, which can easily pull 3.5 tons and overcome deep fords.

• 🏆 Pajero: 12 victories in Dakar, legendary engine reliability 6G72/6G74, cult status in Russia.
• 🛡️ Patrol: frame construction in all generations, engine VK56 with a resource of 500+ thousand km, a favorite of the Middle East.
• 🔄 Both: discontinued, but remain in demand on the secondary market (prices from 1.5 to 10 million ₽).

2. Technical characteristics: engines, transmissions, suspensions

Main difference Pajero And Patrol - approach to design. Pajero IV (2006–2021) was built on a monocoque body with subframes, which gave an advantage in handling on asphalt, but a disadvantage in maintainability after serious deformations. Patrol Y62 remained faithful to the frame architecture, which makes it more durable in extreme conditions, but less comfortable at high speeds.

The picture for the engines is this:

Parameter	Mitsubishi Pajero 3.8 (6G75)	Nissan Patrol 5.6 (VK56VD)
Volume, l	3.8	5.6
Power, hp	250	405
Torque, Nm	329	560
Consumption in the city, l/100 km	16–18	22–25
Engine life, thousand km	300–400	500+

Critical point: the Patrol VK56VD engine requires high-quality fuel (not lower than AI-95) and regular oil changes (every 7–8 thousand km), otherwise the risk of oil burns after 150 thousand km increases significantly. At the same time 6G75 from Pajero less picky, but its weak point is the variable valve timing system (MIVEC), which can fail after 200 thousand km.

• ⚙️ Pajero: box INVECS-II (5 automatic transmission) - reliable, but outdated; four-wheel drive Super Select 4WD with center differential lock.
• ⚙️ Patrol: 7-speed automatic JR710E - durable, but sensitive to overheating; transfer case with reduction gear and rear differential lock.
• 🔧 Both: require regular maintenance of the transfer case and axles (oil every 60 thousand km!).

3. Cross-country ability: who copes better with off-road conditions?

On paper Patrol Y62 looks like a winner: higher ground clearance (273 mm versus 225 mm for Pajero), protected crankcases, more powerful engine and frame construction. But in practice it all depends on the conditions:

• 🏜️ Sand/mud: Patrol wins due to greater weight (2.6 t versus 2.1 t for Pajero) and a powerful motor.
• 🪨 Rocks/mountain paths: Pajero with him Super Select 4WD and a short wheelbase make it more maneuverable on narrow serpentines.
• 🌊 Brody: y Patrol fording depth 700 mm (versus 500 mm for Pajero), but the electronics may fail during deep diving.

Important nuance: Pajero IV lost rear differential lock (unlike Pajero III), which reduces its capabilities on difficult off-road conditions. But he has a system ASTC (active stabilization), which helps on slippery surfaces. Patrol in this regard, it’s simpler: the mechanical locking of the rear differential and the lowering make it more predictable in the mud.

⚠️ Attention: On Patrol Y62 with factory tires 275/60 R20 It is not recommended to cross fords with a depth of more than 50 cm - the engine electronics and automatic transmission are located low, the risk of water hammer is high!

How to check the real cross-country ability before purchasing?

1. Look at the condition of the crankcase protection - if it is bent or missing, the car has been actively “tormented”.

2. Carry out a test drive on a primer: there should be no slipping during a sharp start (checking the blockages).

3. Pay attention to play in the steering - this is a sign of wear on the rods and tips after off-road driving.

4. Comfort and handling: city vs highway

Here Pajero IV definitely ahead. Despite his age, he offers:

• 🪑 Softer suspension (spring front, multi-link rear).
• 🎛️ Better sound insulation (compared to Patrol Y62, which rattles like a bucket with nuts on bumps).
• 🚗 Smaller turning radius (5.9 m versus 6.4 m for Patrol).

Patrol Y62, in turn, behaves like a truck on the highway: the steering wheel is tight, there is noticeable roll in corners, and the braking distance is longer due to the heavy weight. But it is more stable at high speeds (up to 160 km/h) thanks to the frame design. In the city, both cars are gluttonous, but Patrol with its 5.6-liter engine it breaks all records: consumption in a traffic jam can reach 28–30 l/100 km!

Around the cabin:

• 🛋️ Pajero: leather trim, climate control, electric seats (in top versions).
• 🏜️ Patrol: harder plastic, but there is an option Cool Box (refrigerator between the front seats) and heating in all rows.

Serviceability of electronics (windows, mirrors, seats) | Condition of leather/fabric on seats (cracks, abrasions) | Operation of climate control (especially on Patrol - weak point)|Noises when driving (creaks, knocks)|Smell in the cabin (a sign of flooding or mold)-->

5. Reliability and maintainability: which is cheaper to maintain?

Both cars are known for their survivability, but there are nuances:

Mitsubishi Pajero:

• ✅ Pros: simple engines 6G72/6G74/6G75, cheap spare parts (many components are unified with L200 And Outlander).
• ❌ Cons: body corrosion (especially arches and sills), problems with MIVEC after 200 thousand km, expensive automatic transmission (repair from 150 thousand ₽).

Nissan Patrol:

• ✅ Pros: engine VK56 runs 500+ thousand km, the frame structure can withstand serious loads.
• ❌ Cons: expensive maintenance (oil in the distributor - 5 l, price ~3 thousand ₽), weak wheel bearings (change every 100 thousand km), problems with electronics (especially ABS sensors).

Critical Information: Parts for Patrol Y62 in Russia prices began to rise by 30–50% after Nissan left the market. For example, an original radiator now costs 80–100 thousand rubles (versus 30–40 thousand rubles in 2021).

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Pajero III (1999–2006) be sure to check the condition of the frame - it is prone to rust in the places where the tie rods are attached. The repair will cost 50–80 thousand rubles!

Knot	Pajero (average cost of repair)	Patrol (average cost of repair)
Replacing the timing chain	25–35 thousand ₽	40–60 thousand ₽ (requires removal of the front panel)
Automatic transmission repair	120–180 thousand ₽	200–300 thousand ₽ (7-speed gearbox is more complicated)
Replacing the wheel bearing	8–12 thousand ₽	15–20 thousand ₽ (due to greater weight, wear is faster)

6. Prices on the secondary market: what is more profitable to buy in 2026?

The cost depends on the generation, mileage and condition. Here are the current prices (according to Auto.ru And Drom.ru for May 2026):

• 💰 Pajero III (1999–2006): 800 thousand – 1.8 million rubles (the most popular for off-road).
• 💰 Pajero IV (2006–2021): 1.5–3.5 million ₽ (top versions with leather and all-wheel drive).
• 💰 Patrol Y61 (1997–2010): 1–2 million ₽ (frame, simple, but obsolete).
• 💰 Patrol Y62 (2010–2023): 2.5–10 million rubles (prices rise due to shortage).

What to choose?

• 🔧 Off-road: Pajero III or Patrol Y61 - cheaper to repair, easier to tune.
• 🏙️ For the city: Pajero IV - more comfortable, more economical (relatively speaking), easier to park.
• 💪 For harsh conditions: Patrol Y62 - if you are willing to pay for fuel and maintenance.

⚠️ Attention: There are a lot of “drowned” and broken people on the market Patrol Y62 from the UAE. Before purchasing, check the VIN history (services CarVertical or AutoDNA) and inspect the car on a lift!

7. Owner reviews: real operating experience

We analyzed reviews on the forums (4x4club.ru, drive2.ru, patrol4x4.ru) and highlighted the key points:

Mitsubishi Pajero:

• ✅ "Engine 6G74 It runs 400 thousand km without capital, if you use good oil."
• ✅ "Super Select 4WD is the best system for snow and ice."
• ❌ "The body rots even with regular anti-corrosion treatment."
• ❌ "The suspension starts knocking after 150 thousand km (bushings, struts)."

Nissan Patrol:

• ✅ "VK56 pulls like a locomotive, overtaking is a pleasure."
• ✅ "The frame and axles can withstand any load, even with a 3.5 t trailer."
• ❌ "Highway consumption of 18–20 l/100 km is the norm, not the exception."
• ❌ "Electronics are capricious: sensors, airbags, climate control can malfunction."

Fun fact: in the Middle East Patrol It is used as a taxi and a police car - this indicates its reliability in extreme climates. In Russia Pajero often chosen for family trips and light off-roading.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Pajero and Patrol

🔧 Which engine is more reliable: 6G75 (Pajero) or VK56 (Patrol)?

6G75 easier to repair and less picky about fuel, but its resource is limited to 350–400 thousand km. VK56 runs longer (500+ thousand km), but requires expensive maintenance (for example, replacing the timing chain every 150 thousand km). If your budget is limited, take it Pajero. If you need an “eternal” car - Patrol.

💰 How much does it cost to maintain Patrol Y62 per year?

With a mileage of 20 thousand km/year:

• Fuel: ~250 thousand ₽ (22 l/100 km × 45 ₽/l).
• Insurance (CASCO): 80–120 thousand rubles (depending on the region).
• Maintenance: 50–70 thousand ₽ (oil, filter, diagnostics).
• Reserve for repairs: 50–100 thousand rubles (hubs, brakes, electronics).

Total: 430–590 thousand rubles per year. For comparison, Pajero IV will cost 250–350 thousand rubles.

🛠️ Is it possible to put gas on Pajero or Patrol?

Technically yes, but:

• On Pajero with 6G75 The 4th generation gas equipment is installed without problems, but ~10% of the power is lost.
• On Patrol with VK56 HBO is not recommended - the engine is sensitive to detonation, there is a risk of valve burnout.

Installation cost: 60–90 thousand rubles. Payback: ~3–4 years with a mileage of 30 thousand km/year.

🚙 Which car is easier to sell in 3-5 years?

Pajero III And Patrol Y61 They keep the price better, as they are in demand among off-road enthusiasts. Pajero IV And Patrol Y62 lose value due to high maintenance costs. Average loss over 3 years:

• Pajero III: 10–15% of the original price.
• Patrol Y62: 25–30% (due to expensive maintenance).

🔄 Is it possible to convert Pajero IV to a frame structure?

Technically possible, but economically impractical. Cost of work (body reinforcement, frame installation from Pajero Sport) - from 500 thousand ₽. Easier to buy Pajero III or Patrol Y61, which are initially frame.