Nissan Terrano is a popular crossover that has won the trust of car enthusiasts due to its reliability and cross-country ability. However, when choosing this car on the secondary market or when purchasing a new version, many are faced with the question: which engine is better? Not only dynamics and fuel consumption, but also durability, maintenance costs and even driving comfort depend on the type and characteristics of the power unit.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the engines that were installed on Nissan Terrano different generations - from gasoline to diesel, including their technical parameters, advantages and disadvantages. You will find out which engine is suitable for city use and which one is better to choose for off-road use. We'll also look at common service issues and considerations to help you make an informed choice.
History of Nissan Terrano engines: from R20 to modern engines
First generation Nissan Terrano (1986–2005) was equipped primarily with diesel engines of the series RD and gasoline KA. These motors were known for their simplicity and maintainability, but were inferior to modern analogues in efficiency and environmental friendliness. For example, diesel RD28T with turbocharging developed 115 hp. and featured high torque, making it ideal for off-road use.
Second generation (2013–2022), created on the basis Renault Duster, received more modern engines from the alliance Renault-Nissan. Gasoline ones have already appeared here HR16DE And MR20DE, as well as diesel K9K. These motors met the standards Euro 5 And Euro 6, which allowed the car to remain competitive in the European market.
Interestingly, in some countries (for example, India) Terrano equipped with unique engines such as 1.5 dCi with a power of 85 hp, which was not supplied to Russia. This is worth considering when purchasing a used car from abroad.
📊 Which engine do you prefer in a crossover?- Gasoline (reliability and simplicity)
- Diesel (efficiency and traction)
- Hybrid (environmentally friendly)
- I don't know, I haven't decided yet
Nissan Terrano gasoline engines: characteristics and features
Gasoline engines Nissan Terrano The second generation is represented by two main options: HR16DE (1.6 l) and MR20DE (2.0 l). Both units are naturally aspirated, without turbocharging, which simplifies their design and reduces maintenance costs. Let's take a closer look at them.
1.6 HR16DE: basic version for the city
- 🔹 Volume: 1598 cm³
- 🔹 Power: 114 hp at 6000 rpm
- 🔹 Torque: 156 Nm at 4000 rpm
- 🔹 Fuel consumption: 7.5–9.2 l/100 km (city/highway)
This engine is ideal for urban use due to its efficiency and fairly high reliability. It is equipped with a variable valve timing system CVTC, which improves dynamics at low speeds. However, for heavy off-road conditions or towing a trailer, its power may not be enough.
2.0 MR20DE: optimal balance of power and efficiency
- 🔹 Volume: 1997 cm³
- 🔹 Power: 143 hp at 6000 rpm
- 🔹 Torque: 195 Nm at 4400 rpm
- 🔹 Fuel consumption: 8.3–10.1 l/100 km (city/highway)
MR20DE - a more powerful and high-torque motor that copes better with loads. It also has a system CVTC, but due to the larger displacement it provides better acceleration dynamics. This engine is often chosen by those who plan to operate Terrano on the highway or in light off-road conditions.
⚠️ Attention: Gasoline engines HR16DE And MR20DE sensitive to fuel quality. Using gasoline with a lower octane number AI-95 can lead to detonation and premature wear of the piston group.
Parameter
HR16DE (1.6)
MR20DE (2.0)
Maximum power
114 hp
143 hp
Torque
156 Nm
195 Nm
Fuel consumption (combined)
8.1 l/100 km
9.0 l/100 km
Recommended fuel
AI-95
AI-95
Lifetime before major overhaul
250–300 thousand km
300–350 thousand km
Upon purchase Nissan Terrano With a gasoline engine, be sure to check the condition of the timing belt. On motors HR16DE And MR20DE it requires replacement every 90–100 thousand km, and its breakage leads to bending of the valves.
Nissan Terrano diesel engines: efficiency and traction
Diesel versions Nissan Terrano equipped with a motor K9K 1.5 liter capacity, which is known for its efficiency and high torque. This engine was offered in two power options: 90 hp And 110 hp (turbocharged). Let's take a closer look at them.
1.5 dCi (K9K): ideal for long journeys
- 🔹 Volume: 1461 cm³
- 🔹 Power: 90 or 110 hp (depending on version)
- 🔹 Torque: 200–240 Nm
- 🔹 Fuel consumption: 4.5–5.5 l/100 km (combined cycle)
Diesel K9K - one of the most economical engines in the line Terrano. Its high low-end torque makes it great for off-roading and towing. However, this engine is more demanding on the quality of fuel and oil, and also has a higher maintenance cost compared to gasoline counterparts.
Version on 110 hp equipped with a turbocharger, which improves dynamics, but requires more frequent oil changes (every 10–15 thousand km) and the use of low-sulfur fuel.
⚠️ Attention: Diesel engines K9K sensitive to overheating. When operating in hot climates or in traffic jams, be sure to monitor the condition of the cooling system and the level of antifreeze.
What is the Common Rail system in diesel engines?
System Common Rail is a modern fuel injection technology in diesel engines, where fuel is supplied under high pressure (up to 2000 bar) into a common rail (rail) and then distributed among the injectors. This allows for more accurate fuel metering and improves efficiency. However, such a system requires the use of high-quality diesel fuel and regular cleaning of injectors (every 60–80 thousand km).
Comparison of gasoline and diesel engines: what to choose?
The choice between petrol and diesel engines depends on your priorities. If you plan to drive mainly around the city and value ease of maintenance, then a gasoline HR16DE or MR20DE will be the best option. These engines are less demanding on fuel quality and have lower repair costs.
If efficiency, high torque and the ability to operate in difficult conditions (off-road, towing) are important to you, then a diesel K9K is the best choice. However, be prepared for higher fuel costs (diesel is more expensive than gasoline in some regions) and maintenance.
- ✅ Gasoline advantages: cheaper to repair, easier to operate, better for short trips.
- ❌ Gasoline cons: higher fuel consumption, lower torque.
- ✅ Diesel advantages: efficiency, high traction, durability with proper maintenance.
- ❌ Diesel cons: sensitivity to fuel, expensive repairs, risk of problems with the particulate filter.
For city use, gasoline is optimal. MR20DE, and for long trips and off-road - diesel K9K at 110 hp
Typical Nissan Terrano engine problems and how to avoid them
Like any car, Nissan Terrano has a number of typical problems associated with engines. Knowing these nuances will help you avoid costly repairs and extend the life of the power unit.
Gasoline engines: weak points
- 🔧 Timing chain problems: On motors HR16DE And MR20DE the chain can stretch to 150–200 thousand km, which leads to noise and the risk of teeth skipping.
- 🔧 Oil leaks: Leaks through the valve cover gasket and crankshaft seals are common.
- 🔧 Throttle valve contamination: Requires cleaning every 50–60 thousand km.
Diesel engines: which breaks down more often?
- 🔧 Turbine problems: In version
110 hp the turbine can fail at 150 thousand km during aggressive operation.
- 🔧 Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF): Requires regular regeneration, otherwise it becomes clogged and fails.
- 🔧 Injectors: They are sensitive to fuel quality and can become clogged after 100 thousand km.
To avoid these problems, follow these simple guidelines:
Change oil and filters every 10–15 thousand km (more often for a diesel engine)|
Use only high-quality fuel (AI-95 gasoline, low-sulfur diesel)|
Monitor the coolant level and radiator condition|
Carry out diagnostics of the turbine and particulate filter every 50 thousand km (for diesel) -->
Which engine is better for off-road?
If you plan to use Nissan Terrano in off-road conditions, the choice of engine depends on the nature of the obstacles. For light off-road conditions (dirt roads, snow, mud), a gasoline engine is suitable. MR20DE — it provides sufficient power and is easy to maintain. However, for serious off-road (deep mud, inclines, sand) it is better to choose a diesel K9K thanks to its high torque at low revs.
It is important to consider that a diesel engine is more sensitive to overheating, so when driving in deep fords or in hot climates, it is necessary to monitor the coolant temperature. Gasoline engines are more tolerant in this regard, but have a smaller traction reserve.
Critical point: the diesel K9K loses up to 30% of power at an altitude of more than 2000 meters above sea level due to thin air. Gasoline engines are less sensitive to this factor.
Maintenance and repair: cost and nuances
Maintenance cost Nissan Terrano depends on the engine type. Gasoline engines are cheaper: changing oil and filters will cost 3–5 thousand rubles, and major repairs will cost from 80 thousand rubles. Diesel engines require more frequent oil changes (every 10 thousand km) and specialized fluids, which increases costs by 20–30%.
Repair of a turbine or diesel particulate filter K9K can cost 50–100 thousand rubles, so it is important to monitor their condition. Gasoline engines are more predictable in this regard, but also require attention to the ignition system and fuel equipment.
- 💰 Maintenance cost (gasoline): 5–8 thousand rubles (every 15 thousand km).
- 💰 Maintenance cost (diesel): 8–12 thousand rubles (every 10 thousand km).
- 💰 Overhaul (gasoline): from 80 thousand rubles.
- 💰 Overhaul (diesel): from 120 thousand rubles.
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Nissan Terrano With mileage, be sure to check the service history. Diesel engines with a mileage of more than 150 thousand km without documentation of regular oil and filter changes are a risky purchase.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Terrano engines
What engine does the 2015 Nissan Terrano have?
In 2015 Nissan Terrano equipped with gasoline engines HR16DE (1.6 l, 114 hp) and MR20DE (2.0 l, 143 hp), as well as diesel K9K (1.5 l, 90 or 110 hp). The specific configuration depends on the market.
Is it possible to install HBO on a Nissan Terrano?
Yes, for gasoline engines HR16DE And MR20DE You can install gas cylinder equipment (GBO). However, this requires tuning the ECU and regularly checking the system for leaks. For diesel engines K9K HBO is not suitable.
Which engine is more reliable: HR16DE or MR20DE?
Both engines are considered reliable, but MR20DE has a longer resource (up to 350 thousand km versus 300 thousand km for HR16DE) thanks to a more robust cylinder block design. However HR16DE easier and cheaper to repair.
What should you do if your K9K diesel engine starts smoking?
Diesel engine smoking can be caused by several reasons:
- 🔹 Clogged injectors (needs cleaning or replacement).
- 🔹 Turbine wear (needs diagnostics).
- 🔹 Problems with the particulate filter (needs regeneration or replacement).
- 🔹 Oil leakage into the combustion chamber (check the condition of the piston rings).
It is recommended to contact a service for computer diagnostics.
What is the fuel consumption of the Nissan Terrano on the highway?
Fuel consumption on the highway depends on the engine:
- 🔹 HR16DE (1.6, petrol): 5.8–6.5 l/100 km.
- 🔹 MR20DE (2.0, petrol): 6.5–7.5 l/100 km.
- 🔹 K9K (1.5, diesel): 4.0–4.8 l/100 km.
Actual consumption may vary depending on driving style and vehicle load.