The Philippines seems to be in love with big SUVs. We can tell by the long waiting lists and reservations at dealerships for several popular SUV models. When the Land Cruiser 300 was launched, it too became a big seller… and the queues are still long. The same goes for the Prado as well as the Lexus counterparts like the LX and GX.

If you noticed, all of those are from Toyota (and Lexus). Sure there are other models from other brands like the Land Rover Defender, GAC GS8 even the Jetour T2 that are proving to be quite popular, but by and large it is Toyota that sets the standard for long lines for SUV models.

This time it’s Nissan’s turn. The launch of the all-new Nissan Patrol is just around the corner. And even before the launch, they’ve already got quite the waiting list.

As of today, we’ve been told that Nissan has at least 200+ customers for the seventh-generation Patrol. Those are not just names on paper: those are reservations at dealerships even though customers may not even be aware of the price yet.

We’ve also learned that the initial batch of around 40 units may already be spoken for, but more are on the way in the coming months.

What’s interesting is that Nissan has designated the Philippines as the second market after the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC – Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar) in the world to get the Patrol. That makes sense, as Nissan Philippines is currently the strongest market of the brand in the SE Asia region.

But why the demand? What are customers looking forward to in the new Patrol?

While details can’t be given out yet, the Patrol has been a mainstay SUV of Nissan since 1951. The vehicle evolved from a utilitarian 4x4 with a leaning towards satisfying military contracts to a luxurious 4x4 fit for VIPs and even heads of state.

The new seventh-generation model builds on that heritage with new engine options (including a 3.5L V6 twin turbo), new tech, new 9-speed automatic, new ADAS features, and luxurious appointments. And of course, the legendary capability that Patrol is known for.

Perhaps it is because the previous generation (Y62) has been in the market for quite a long time so customers have been clamoring for something truly new. Perhaps it is also because election season usually spurs on spending on these kinds of vehicles. Whichever the case, the Patrol is bound for a strong reception once Nissan takes the wraps off the vehicle in the local market next week.