Honda to Launch Full-Size SUV Based on Nissan Patrol

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. and Honda Motor Co. Ltd. signed a MOU (memorandum of understanding) in December last year, and started discussions and considerations towards a business integration between the brands via a joint venture. Both OEMs have agreed to introduce badge-engineered products, with the first model under this agreement being Honda’s version of the Nissan Patrol.

The Patrol is a globally renowned full-size SUV, which has always been favoured for its robust performance and off-road capabilities. This SUV is already on sell in several global markets including Australia, Middle East and some parts of Asia. In the United States, it is marketed as the Nissan Armada, while in Japan, it was sold as the Nissan Safari untill 2008.

Official Statement

Honda Global’s Director & Executive Vice President, Noriya Kaihara said that the company is focused on exploring Nissan’s larger vehicle offerings (like the Armada and Pathfinder) because Honda’s “motor and battery capacity can be adapted to the larger vehicle”. Furthermore, the Japanese automaker is considering Nissan as a means to reduce expenditures on the future software-defined vehicles (SDV).

Nissan Patrol Specs & Featues

Globally, the Nissan Patrol is available with two engine options – 3.8L V6 and 3.5L V6 Twin turbo. While the former is good for 316bhp and 386Nm, the latter delivers power worth 425bhp and 700Nm of torque. This full sized SUV measures 5,205mm in length, 2,030mm in width and 1,955mm in height with a wheelbase of 3,075mm.

As a premium SUV, it comes loaded with several advanced features including ProPILOT, Lane Keep Assist, a 3D around view monitor with moving object detection, massage seats with 4-way lumbar support, HUD, wireless charger, remote engine start, multi-colour interior illumination, a 12-speaker Klipsch premium audio system, a twin 14.3-inch monolith display and more.

Honda’s Plan For India

The Japanese automaker has planned five new models for the Indian market including a 7-seater SUV. The design and development of the new Honda 7-seater SUV will be carried out by the brand’s teams in Japan and Thailand. It could be offered with the Elevate’s 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine and City’s strong hybrid powertrain.

Honda Cars India is also working on a new PF2 platform, which will underpin the new three-row SUV and new-generation City sedan. While the 7-seater SUV will arrive towards end of 2027 or early 2028, the all-new City might launch in 2028. Additionally, aiming to challenge the Tata Nexon, Honda plans to introduce an all-new sub-4 metre SUV in early 2029. The company has also planned to electric SUVs including the Elevate-based EV to compete with the Hyundai Creta Electric and the upcoming Maruti e Vitara.

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