Full review of Nissan Terrano technical specifications

Car Nissan Terrano occupies a unique niche in the market, offering a balance between urban comfort and off-road capabilities. Often confused with larger SUVs, this crossover is actually a customized version of Nissan Qashqai with reinforced suspension and increased ground clearance. It is these characteristics that make it a popular choice for families who often travel outside the city or live in regions with difficult road conditions.

When choosing a car, it is important to carefully study not only the figures stated by the manufacturer, but also the real capabilities of the body and power unit. Nissan Terrano the second generation, produced since 2013, has become a real hit thanks to its affordable price and platform reliability. In this article we will analyze in detail all the aspects that affect the operation of this SUV.

Dimensions and body structure

The first thing a potential owner pays attention to is its visual massiveness and actual dimensions. Body Nissan Terrano has a classic shape for its class, providing excellent visibility and a spacious interior. The length of the car is 4425 mm, width - 1835 mm, and height - 1635 mm. Such parameters allow him to feel confident both in dense city traffic and on narrow country roads.

The wheelbase is 2636 mm, which guarantees sufficient legroom for second-row passengers. However, the key characteristic for an SUV is ground clearance. Ground clearance is 210 mm when running, which is an excellent indicator for a crossover, allowing you to overcome snow drifts and dirt potholes without the risk of damaging the bottom. At the same time, the approach angle is 31 degrees, and the departure angle is 27 degrees, which is critically important when choosing a trajectory on difficult terrain.

The body design includes reinforced sills and protective stickers on the arches, which reduces the risk of damage to the paintwork when driving through the forest. Luggage compartment volume varies depending on the position of the rear seats. In the standard position it is 430 liters, and with the seats folded - 1630 liters, which allows you to transport large loads, such as furniture or sports equipment.

Power units and acceleration dynamics

In the engine range Nissan Terrano Both gasoline and diesel options are presented, each of which has its own operating characteristics. The main choice of buyers falls on a 2-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine. H4M 135 or 143 hp depending on the market and year of manufacture. This unit is characterized by its simplicity of design and high maintainability, which is a big plus for the owners.

For those who plan to frequently drive with a full load or tow a trailer, a diesel engine is available K9K volume 1.5 liters. Despite its smaller displacement, it produces a respectable 240 Nm of torque, providing more torquey performance at low revs. However, it is worth considering that the diesel version requires higher quality fuel and regular maintenance of the injection system.

Dynamic characteristics directly depend on the type of transmission chosen by the owner. Acceleration to 100 km/h for the petrol version with manual transmission takes about 11.5 seconds. The automatic transmission adds comfort in traffic jams, but slightly increases acceleration time. The maximum speed is electronically limited to 175-180 km/h, which is quite enough for confident overtaking on the highway.

• Gasoline engine H4M requires the use of AI-95 fuel to preserve valve life.
• Diesel engine K9K sensitive to the quality of diesel fuel and requires the installation of a pre-heater in cold weather.
• The injection system of a gasoline engine does not have direct injection, which reduces the risk of carbon deposits forming on the valves.

Transmission and all-wheel drive system

One of the main features Nissan Terrano is its all-wheel drive system. Unlike many competitors that use a plug-in drive via a clutch, it uses a time-tested multi-plate coupling design. It effectively distributes torque between the axles, sending up to 50% of the traction to the rear wheels when needed.

Owners can choose between a manual transmission and an automatic. Manual transmissions are typically offered with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, while automatic transmissions are only available on all-wheel drive versions. It is important to note that driving modes are switched using a button on the dashboard, which is convenient even while moving.

The system has several operating modes, including automatic, clutch lock and mud mode. In lock-up mode, the clutch operates in a rigid clutch, which allows it to overcome deep ruts and mud where a conventional crossover would get stuck. However, prolonged operation in this mode is not recommended due to the risk of transmission overheating.

⚠️ Attention: Do not attempt to use the clutch lock mode on dry pavement. This can lead to premature differential wear and transfer case failure.

Chassis and suspension

Suspension Nissan Terrano designed with a focus on comfort and bump absorption. An independent MacPherson-type suspension is installed at the front, and a semi-independent torsion beam at the rear. This design is classic for budget crossovers and ensures predictable behavior on the road.

Despite the simplicity of the rear suspension, the engineers managed to configure it so that it does not transmit unnecessary shocks to the cabin when driving over speed bumps. The shock absorbers have an extended stroke, which allows the wheels to remain in contact with the road even on very rough terrain. The springs are selected taking into account possible loads, so when fully loaded the car does not sag excessively.

The steering is equipped with an electric booster, which changes its force depending on the speed. At low speeds, the steering is light, which makes parking easier, and on the highway it becomes more informative. The braking system includes ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear, a compromise to reduce maintenance costs.

• The front stabilizer bar link is a consumable item and requires replacement when knocking noises occur.
• The rear shock absorbers have a service life of about 100,000 km if used carefully.
• The steering rack does not have a hydraulic booster, which simplifies the design and reduces the risk of leaks.

Interior configurations and equipment

Salon Nissan Terrano made of materials typical for its price segment. The plastic is hard, but of high quality, and does not creak when driving over uneven surfaces. The ergonomics of the instrument panel are designed so that all controls are within the driver's reach. The multimedia system supports smartphone connection and has a good resolution screen.

Depending on the configuration, the car can be equipped with climate control, heated front seats and windshield, as well as light and rain sensors. In top versions, a leather steering wheel and an automatic transmission with manual shift are available. It's worth noting, however, that headroom for tall rear seat passengers may be limited due to the shape of the roof.

Safety is ensured by a set of airbags (from 2 to 6 depending on the market), a stabilization system VDC and anti-lock braking system ABS. Child seat anchors ISOFIX present in both back row seats. A tire pressure monitoring system is also included as standard equipment in most markets.

Fuel consumption and efficiency

Economical Nissan Terrano - one of the key factors of its popularity. A 2.0 liter petrol engine consumes about 10-11 liters of fuel in the urban cycle. On the highway this figure drops to 7-7.5 liters, which makes the car beneficial for long trips. The diesel version consumes even less, about 6-6.5 liters in the combined cycle.

However, actual fuel consumption may differ significantly from the rated data depending on driving style and road conditions. Aggressive driving with frequent acceleration and braking can increase consumption to 13-14 liters in the city. It is also worth considering that turning on the air conditioner and operating the stove in winter add about 0.5-1 liter to the consumption.

The fuel tank capacity is 55 liters, which provides a range of up to 700 kilometers per fill-up during quiet driving. The fuel tank is anti-theft and equipped with a sensor that signals low fuel level when there is about 7-8 liters left. Using quality fuel is critical to the longevity of the injectors and fuel pump.

⚠️ Attention: Do not allow the fuel tank to become completely empty, as this may clog the fuel filter and overheat the fuel pump, which is cooled by the fuel.

Real reviews from owners about fuel consumption

Many owners note that during break-in the consumption was higher than stated, but after changing the oil and adapting the engine, the figures stabilized. Some people complain about high consumption when driving in traffic jams with the air conditioning running.

Service features and reliability

Reliability Nissan Terrano confirmed by years of operation in various climatic conditions. The main components and assemblies have a long service life, but require regular maintenance. It is recommended to change the oil in the engine every 10,000 km, and in the gearbox - every 60,000 km. Ignoring these deadlines can lead to costly repairs.

The car's suspension is not particularly durable on very bad roads, so owners should be attentive to knocking elements. Silent blocks of levers and steering tips may require replacement earlier than stated. However, the cost of spare parts and their availability on the market make repairs affordable for most car owners.

Body corrosion is the weak point of many cars, and Nissan Terrano no exception. The sills, arches and bottom are especially vulnerable. It is recommended to regularly wash the car in winter and apply an anti-corrosion coating to hidden cavities. The interior also requires maintenance: the carpet at the feet of the front passengers can get wet in heavy rain due to clogged drainage holes.

• The oil filter should be changed along with the oil, using only original or high-quality analogues.
• Spark plugs on a gasoline engine last up to 40,000 km, after which it is better to replace them.
• The timing belt on a diesel engine requires replacement every 120,000 km; on a gasoline engine, the chain is almost eternal.

Comparison with competitors

In the crossover market Nissan Terrano has direct competitors such as Renault Duster, Hyundai Creta And Skoda Karoq. Compared to Renault Duster, on whose platform it is based, Terrano offers a more modern design and improved interior equipment. However Duster may be cheaper to maintain and have a simpler suspension design.

Compared to Korean competitors such as Hyundai Creta, Nissan It wins in dynamics and controllability on the track, but loses in the level of noise insulation comfort. Skoda Karoq offers more cabin space and better materials, but costs significantly more and doesn't have the same off-road potential.

The choice between these cars depends on the buyer's priorities. If cross-country ability and reliability are important to you, then Nissan Terrano would be an excellent choice. If comfort and status are your priority, you may want to consider other options. It's important to test drive each vehicle before purchasing to see which one is best for you.

Which engine is more reliable: gasoline or diesel?

Both engines are reliable when properly maintained. The gasoline H4M is easier and cheaper to repair, but the K9K diesel is more economical and high-torque. The choice depends on your needs and budget.

Can I use Nissan Terrano for serious off-road?

The car is designed for light and medium off-road use. It is not designed for extreme rock crawling or deep swamps, but will handle forest roads, snow and mud with ease.

How often should the transmission oil be changed?

The manufacturer recommends changing the automatic transmission oil every 60,000 km. On a manual transmission, the interval can be increased, but replacement every 60-80 thousand km will extend the life of the transmission.

What is the fuel consumption in real conditions?

In the city the consumption is 10-12 liters, on the highway 7-8 liters. In winter and with aggressive driving, consumption can increase to 13-14 liters.