Restyling Nissan Terrano 2 became a long-awaited update for the popular crossover, which won the love of Russian motorists thanks to its reliability, cross-country ability and affordable price. The updated version, presented in 2017, received not only cosmetic changes, but also a number of technical improvements aimed at improving comfort and safety. However, not all innovations turned out to be unequivocally positive - some owners note both advantages and controversial issues.
In this article we will look at what exactly has changed in restyled Terrano 2 in comparison with the pre-restyling version, we will analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the model, and also give practical recommendations on choosing between the old and new modifications. We will pay special attention to those aspects that are often overlooked in reviews - for example, changes in the suspension, electronics and real feedback from owners after several years of use.
External changes: what's new in the design?
The most noticeable changes in Nissan Terrano 2 after restyling we touched the front part of the body. Designers have completely redesigned front bumper, adding more aggressive lines and integrated fog lights with chrome surrounds. The radiator grille has become wider and has a new structure with horizontal slats, which visually makes the car more massive. The headlights have retained the same shape, but their internal filling has been modernized - they are now equipped with LED running lights even in basic configurations.
The rear part of the body has changed less radically: the shape of the bumper has been updated, LED taillights have been added (in top versions) and the registration plate has been moved to the bumper instead of the trunk door. The wheel arches and side moldings remain the same, but there are new alloy wheel options - sizes now available 16" And 17" with original designs. The color palette has expanded with the addition of shades "Bronze metallic" And "Blue Sapphire", which were previously unavailable.
- 🔹 Front bumper — more voluminous, with integrated PTF and chrome inserts.
- 🔹 Radiator grille — wider, with horizontal slats and logo Nissan in the center.
- 🔹 Tail lights — LED in top trim levels, the diffuser pattern has been changed.
- 🔹 Wheels - new designs for
16"And17"sizes.
Interestingly, despite the visual changes, the dimensions of the car remained the same: length - 4330 mm, width - 1822 mm, height - 1670 mm. The clearance also has not changed and is 205 mm, which preserves the high off-road qualities of the model. However, some owners note that the new bumper has become more vulnerable to damage when parking due to protruding elements.
- I like dorestayla more
- Too aggressive
- Too similar to Renault Duster
- Doesn't matter
- Another option
Technical updates: engines, transmission, suspension
Under the hood Nissan Terrano 2 the changes affected the restyled versions mainly engine settings and transmissions. Basic petrol engine 1.6 l (114 hp) remained the same, but engineers improved the injection system and electronic throttle control, which reduced fuel consumption by 0.3–0.5 l/100 km in a mixed cycle. More powerful 2.0 l (143 hp) also received optimized ECU settings, improving responsiveness at low speeds.
The most significant innovation is the appearance robotic gearbox Easy-R paired with engine 1.6 l. This transmission, developed on the basis of a manual transmission, offers an automatic mode and the option of manual shifting without a clutch. However, reviews about it are contradictory: on the one hand, it is cheaper than a classic machine gun, on the other hand, many complain about delays when switching and jerks when starting on an incline. The alternative remains proven 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic (only for 2.0 l).
| Characteristics | Dorestyle (until 2017) | Restyling (since 2017) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine 1.6 l, power | 114 hp | 114 hp (injection optimized) |
| Engine 2.0 l, power | 143 hp | 143 hp (improved responsiveness) |
| Transmission for 1.6 l | Manual 5MT / Automatic 4AT | Mechanics 5MT / Robot Easy-R |
| Suspension (front/rear) | MacPherson / Semi-independent | MacPherson strut (silent blocks reinforced) / Semi-independent (shock absorbers upgraded) |
| Fuel consumption 1.6 l (combined cycle) | 7.8–8.2 l/100 km | 7.3–7.8 l/100 km |
In the suspension, the changes affected mainly details: front struts McPherson received reinforced silent blocks, and the rear semi-independent suspension received upgraded shock absorbers with modified damping characteristics. This was supposed to improve handling at high speeds, but in practice the difference is only felt when driving on rough roads. The steering remains unchanged - rack and pinion mechanism with hydraulic booster, which some owners consider too “empty” on the highway.
⚠️ Attention: When choosing the version with robot Easy-R Keep in mind that its lifespan greatly depends on your driving style. During aggressive driving, clutch failure may occur after60–80 thousand km, and replacing the clutch assembly will cost40–50 thousand rubles.
Interior and equipment: comfort vs. savings
Interior Nissan Terrano 2 after restyling, it underwent minimal changes, which caused criticism from car owners. Major updates affected finishing materials: The plastic on the instrument panel has become softer to the touch, and the seams on the seat upholstery have become neater. However, the basic ergonomics and layout remain the same, which cannot be called an advantage - many controls (for example, climate control buttons) are located inconveniently.
Among the positive changes:
- 🎛️ Multimedia system - appeared in top versions
7" touch screenwith support Apple CarPlay And Android Auto (previously there was only5 inchwithout sensor). - 🔊 Audio system - improved speakers (now
6 columnsinstead of4in the database), added USB port on the rear console. - 🪑 Seats — lateral support has become more pronounced, and in versions with leather trim a heating function has appeared for rear passengers.
At the same time, savings on small details are striking: for example, in the basic configurations there is still no steering wheel reach adjustment, and the armrest for the driver appeared only in the top. Rear seats fold in proportion 60:40, but the trunk floor remains uneven, which is inconvenient when transporting large cargo. Trunk volume has not changed - 475 l (up to 1636 l with seats folded).
When inspecting the interior of the restyled Terrano 2, pay attention to the gaps between the panels - in the first batches after the update, there were cases of uneven plastic joints near the air ducts.
Security: what has been added and what is missing?
In terms of security Nissan Terrano 2 after restyling it received several important updates, but it is still far from reaching the level of its European competitors. Standard equipment on all trim levels now includes:
- 🚨 Electronic Stability Control (ESC) — previously installed only in top versions.
- 🚗 Tire pressure sensors (TPMS) — now show the current pressure on the on-board computer display.
- 👁️ Rear view camera — with dynamic marking lines (in versions with a multimedia system).
However passive safety remained at the same level: the body did not pass crash tests according to modern standards (for example, Euro NCAP), and the airbags are still only frontal (total 2 pcs.). Side curtains and a knee airbag for the driver are available only in the maximum configuration "Tekna", which raises questions about the manufacturer’s policy.
Deserves special attention lighting: appeared in restyled versions LED running lights, but the main headlights remained halogen even in the top. Bi-xenon or full LEDs are not provided in any configuration. This is surprising given that competitors (e.g. Hyundai Creta or Kia Seltos) offer LED optics already in medium versions.
⚠️ Attention: When buying a used restyled Terrano 2 check the system operation ESC — in the first batches of 2017–2018, there were cases of false alarms when driving on gravel or snow. Updating the ECU firmware solves the problem.
Comparison with pre-restyle: is it worth overpaying?
The main question that worries buyers: are the changes in the restyled version justified by the additional costs? Average price difference between pre-restyle and updated Terrano 2 on the secondary market is 150–250 thousand rubles (depending on mileage and equipment). Let's look at what exactly you are paying for:
- ✅ Pros of restyling:
- 🔋 More modern multimedia system with support for smartphones.
- 🛡️ Extended set of security systems (ESC, TPMS in the database).
- 💡 LED running lights and rear optics in the top.
- ⚙️ Optimized engine settings (lower fuel consumption).
- ❌ Disadvantages of restyling:
- 💰 Robotic gearbox Easy-R unreliable and expensive to repair.
- 🎨 Minimal changes in the interior (still cheap plastic).
- 🚗 Lack of full-fledged LED headlights even in the top-end configuration.
- 📉 Decline in the reliability of some components (for example, climate control electronics).
If your priority is reliability and simplicity, then the pre-restyling version with a manual transmission or a classic automatic transmission may be a more profitable choice. However, if you care modern options (for example, support Apple CarPlay or rear view camera), then restyling is worth considering. The main thing is to avoid versions with a robot Easy-R, if you plan to operate the car in a city with frequent traffic jams.
☑️ What to check when buying a restyled Terrano 2
Owner reviews: real operating experience
To form an objective opinion about the restyled Nissan Terrano 2, we analyzed reviews from owners from the forums (Drive2, Drom.ru) and social networks. Here are the key observations:
👍 Pros according to reviews:
- 🛣️ Patency — ground clearance
205 mmand all-wheel drive All Mode 4x4-i allow you to confidently drive on dirt roads and snow.- 💰 Low cost of maintenance — spare parts are cheaper than European crossovers (many components are unified with Renault Duster).
- 🔧 Easy to repair — even in the regions it is easy to find services familiar with this model.
👎 Cons according to reviews:
- 🔊 Interior noise - at higher speeds
90 km/hYou can hear wind noise and noise from the wheels.- ⚡ Electrical problems — frequent complaints about malfunctions of parking sensors and instrument lighting.
- 🛑 Brake system - after
50–60 thousand kmVibration may occur when braking (disc resurfacing is required).
It’s interesting that owners of pre-restyling and restyling often argue about reliability. The former claim that “the old version is more reliable,” while the latter praise improved ergonomics and efficiency. However, objective data suggests that restyled versions more often suffer from problems with the Easy-R robot and electronics, while the pre-restyle version is more “indestructible” in terms of mechanics.
What do they say about the Easy-R robot?
According to reviews, the main problems with Easy-R appear after 50–70 thousand km: jerks when switching, gear freezing, clutch wear. Some owners recommend reflashing the ECU to soften the switching algorithms, but this does not guarantee durability.
Which Terrano 2 to choose: purchasing recommendations
If you decide to buy Nissan Terrano 2, here is a checklist for choosing between pre-restyling and restyling:
- Budget up to 1 million rubles: consider the pre-restyling versions of 2015–2016 with a manual transmission or a classic automatic. They are cheaper to maintain and less problematic.
- Budget 1–1.3 million rubles: you can take a closer look at the 2018–2019 restyling, but only with
2.0 lengine and automatic. Avoid the robot Easy-R! - All wheel drive required: both versions are equipped with the system All Mode 4x4-i, but the restyling has improved control electronics. For off-road use, dorestyle is better - simpler and more reliable.
- Comfort is important: restyling wins in multimedia and sound insulation (albeit not by much). If you drive mostly around the city, take the updated version with
1.6 land mechanics.
When inspecting a used car, be sure to check:
- 🔋 Battery condition - in restyled versions it is often discharged due to the increased amount of electronics.
- 🛞 Wear of ball joints and silent blocks - the life of the front suspension rarely exceeds
60 thousand km. - 💡 The operation of LED running lights - they often burn out due to moisture getting into the block.
The optimal choice for most buyers is the restyled Terrano 2 with a 2.0 l engine and 4-AT in the Comfort package. This version combines reliability, a sufficient level of equipment and minimal risks of problems with the transmission.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Terrano 2 restyling
🔧 Which engine is more reliable: 1.6 l or 2.0 l?
Engine 2.0 l (F4R) is considered more reliable and durable - with proper maintenance, its service life reaches 300–400 thousand km. 1.6 l (H4M) more economical, but sensitive to the quality of oil and fuel. If you drive mostly on the highway or are often loaded, take 2.0 l. Suitable for the city 1.6 l, but with a manual transmission.
🚗 Is it possible to install LED headlights instead of halogen ones?
Technically possible, but there are some nuances:
- 🔦 In restyled versions, the headlights are designed for halogen, so for legal installation of LEDs you will need certified kit with light beam corrector.
- 📜 Independent replacement without making changes to the PTS can lead to problems when passing technical inspection.
- 💡 The recommended option is to install high-quality halogen lamps with increased brightness (for example, Philips X-tremeVision).
⚡ Why do running lights often come on in restyling?
The problem is related to the design of the running light unit - moisture gets into it through loose joints. Over time, this leads to oxidation of the contacts and burnout of the LEDs. Solution:
- Check the tightness of the headlight unit seals.
- If necessary, process contacts WD-40 or special lubricant.
- The service may offer installation of additional protection (for example, silicone covers for connectors).
🛠️ How much does Terrano 2 maintenance cost per year?
The average cost of maintenance (excluding unforeseen repairs) is:
| Type of work | Cost (RUB) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance (oil change, filters) | 8 000–12 000 | Every 15,000 km |
| Replacing brake pads (front) | 5 000–8 000 | Every 30–40 thousand km |
| Replacing spark plugs | 3 000–5 000 | Every 30,000 km |
| Suspension diagnostics | 2 000–4 000 | Every 20,000 km |
Total: 20,000–35,000 rubles per year with moderate use. For versions with all-wheel drive, add more 5,000–10,000 rub. for servicing the transfer case and rear gearbox.
🔄 Is it possible to disable the ESC system?
Yes, the stability control can be turned off using a button on the center console (usually labeled ESP OFF). However, keep in mind:
- 🚗 Disable ESC It is recommended only when driving off-road (mud, snow, sand), where the system may interfere.
- ⚠️ Disabled on the asphalt ESC increases the risk of skidding, especially on wet roads.
- 🔄 In some versions, the system automatically turns on the next time you start the engine.