Next Generation: Introducing the Ford Maverick SUV Redefined

Ford has reaffirmed its commitment to passenger cars in Europe by partnering with Renault to develop two electric vehicles based on the French brand’s platform. This move comes after recent speculation of secret talks between Ford and Nissan regarding potential collaboration in the North American market.

Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Ford has joined forces with Nissan. In the late 1980s, Ford Australia and Nissan Australia formed a manufacturing partnership, resulting in the production of several models throughout the 1990s. These included a Nissan Pintara rebranded as a Ford and a Ford Falcon ute sold as a Nissan.

One of the most popular models from this collaboration was the Ford Maverick, essentially a badge-engineered Nissan Patrol. While the Maverick name was also used on a rebadged Nissan Terrano II in some overseas markets during the same period.

Looking ahead, with Nissan planning to launch the next generation of the Patrol in 2026, there is speculation about a potential new Maverick based on Ford’s latest SUV design language in the US. While Ford already has the F-150-based Expedition in the US market, a new SUV based on the Patrol could provide competition for the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series.

The new Y63 Patrol from Nissan features a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine, similar to the one used in the Ford Expedition. This marks a significant departure from the original off-road Maverick, which offered a choice of two 4.2-litre six-cylinder engines without turbocharging.

While there’s no concrete evidence of a partnership between Nissan and Ford for a Patrol SUV at this stage, the potential for collaboration raises interesting possibilities for both brands.

Would you like to see a new-generation Ford Maverick off-roader make a comeback in the Australian market? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

For more information on the Nissan Patrol, visit the Nissan Patrol showroom for a detailed exploration of this iconic SUV.