Nissan Terrano - a name that many associate with reliability, simplicity and off-road capabilities. Over more than 30 years of existence, the model has experienced several reincarnations: from the modest compact SUV based on Datsun to full frame SUV, competing with Toyota Land Cruiser Prado And Mitsubishi Pajero. But not everyone knows that completely different cars were hidden under the same name - from budget crossovers to serious all-terrain vehicles.

In this article we will look at all generations of Nissan Terrano, their technical features, pros and cons, and also tell you which models should be considered for purchase today. You will find out what was different Terrano I from Terrano IIwhy Terrano R500 became a cult in Russia, and what constitutes modern Terrano based on Dacia Duster. We will also give advice on choosing a used model and reveal unique facts about rare modifications that are almost never found on the secondary market.

1. Nissan Terrano I (WD21, 1986–2005): humble beginnings

First generation Nissan Terrano debuted in 1986 and was the result of collaboration with Ford - was his twin Ford Maverick. It was compact SUV based on Nissan Sunny (B12), but with all-wheel drive and increased ground clearance. The car was positioned as an affordable alternative Suzuki Vitara And Toyota RAV4, which had just appeared then.

Main Features Terrano WD21:

  • 🔧 Platform: unified with Nissan Sunny And Nissan Pickup (D21).
  • 🛢️ Engines: gasoline 1.6–2.4 l (up to 130 hp) and diesel 2.7 TD (95 hp).
  • 🔄 Drive: plug-in all-wheel drive with transfer case (partial differential lock).
  • 📏 Dimensions: length 4.1 m, ground clearance 200 mm.

The model was successful in Europe and Japan, but was rarely seen in Russia. Main disadvantages - poor corrosion resistance and modest off-road capabilities compared to frame competitors. However Terrano I remembered as the first step Nissan in the compact SUV segment.

⚠️ Attention: When buying used Terrano WD21 Be sure to check the condition of the side members and sills - they rot even with low mileage. Diesel versions with engine 2.7 TD often suffer from problems with injection pump after 200,000 km.
📊 Which generation of Terrano do you like best?
  • First (WD21)
  • Second (R20/R50)
  • Third (based on Duster)
  • None

2. Nissan Terrano II (R20/R50, 1993–2006): a legend without frames

The second generation, known as Terrano II (or Mistral in some countries), became a real breakthrough. Unlike its predecessor, it was full-fledged SUV with a monocoque body, but without a frame - a solution that was then considered revolutionary. The car was built on a platform Nissan Primera, but received reinforced suspension and all-wheel drive.

Key Features Terrano R20/R50:

  • 🚗 Design: angular shapes, short overhangs, high ground clearance (210 mm).
  • 🔥 Engines: gasoline 2.0 (125 hp), 2.4 (135 hp), 2.7 V6 (170 hp); diesels 2.7 TD And 3.0 TD.
  • 🔄 Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive with center differential.
  • 🏆 Features: version Terrano II Long with extended base (+20 cm).

In Russia Terrano R500 (as he was often called) became a cult thanks to simplicity of design, maintainability and good off-road qualities. However, the lack of a frame limited the strength of the body under severe loads. The model was produced until 2006, and in some countries (for example, India) it was produced under the name Nissan Mistral even longer.

Modification Engine Power Drive Flow (mixed)
Terrano II 2.0 SR20DE 125 hp Full 11.5 l/100 km
Terrano II 2.7 TD TD27 95 hp Full 9.8 l/100 km
Terrano II Long 3.0 TD TD27T 125 hp Full 12.0 l/100 km
⚠️ Attention: During operation Terrano R500 with diesel engine TD27 Avoid prolonged idling - this leads to coking of the piston rings. Petrol versions with 2.4 the engine is prone to overheating when towing.
💡

If you are planning to buy a Terrano II for off-road use, pay attention to versions with a manual transmission and a rear differential lock - they are much more reliable than automatic ones.

3. Nissan Terrano Regulus (1997–2004): luxury SUV for Japan

Few people know, but in the late 1990s Nissan released premium version of Terrano called Terrano Regulus. This model was intended exclusively for the Japanese market and was positioned as luxury SUV with improved finishing and equipment.

Differences Terrano Regulus from standard Terrano II:

  • 💎 Exterior: chrome elements, different bumpers, LED taillights (a rarity for that time).
  • 🛋️ Interior: leather trim, electric seats, climate control, premium audio system.
  • 🔧 Technique: only petrol engines 2.4 And 3.0 V6, automatic transmission.
  • 🚫 Features: did not have full off-road potential - rather, it was an SUV.

Today Terrano Regulus - very rare even in Japan. In Russia, these cars are practically never found, but sometimes they come across at auctions. The cost of used copies starts from 800,000 rubles, but finding spare parts is extremely difficult.

Why wasn't the Terrano Regulus sold outside of Japan?

The main reason is high duties on premium cars in the 1990s. In addition, Nissan positioned the Regulus as a "Japanese exclusive" so as not to compete with other brand models in global markets.

4. Nissan Terrano III (2014–2022): Dacia Duster rebranding

In 2014 Nissan returned the name Terrano, but for a completely different car - rebranded Dacia Duster. This crossover, created on the platform Renault-Nissan B0, has become a budget alternative Nissan Qashqai And Renault Duster. In fact, it was the same Duster, but with a different bumper, grille and interior.

How was it different? Terrano III from Duster:

  • 🔹 Design: different front part (headlights, hood, bumper), different rims.
  • 🔹 Salon: steering wheel and dashboard from Nissan, different plastic finish.
  • 🔹 Technique: the same engines (1.6, 2.0, diesel 1.5 dCi) and transmission.
  • 🔹 Price: more expensive Duster on 50,000–100,000 rubles with similar equipment.

The model was produced in Russia at the plant AvtoVAZ (under the name Nissan Terrano) and in India (as Nissan Terrano for the local market). In 2022, production was stopped due to the departure Renault-Nissan from Russia.

⚠️ Attention: When buying used Terrano III pay attention to corrosion of the rear arches and sills - this is the weak point of the platform B0. Diesel versions with engine 1.5 dCi sensitive to fuel quality and require regular oil changes every 10,000 km.

☑️ What to check when inspecting Nissan Terrano III (Duster)

Done: 0 / 5

5. Comparison of generations: which is better to choose?

Every generation Nissan Terrano had its own audience and purpose. To understand which model is right for you, let’s compare them according to key parameters:

Parameter Terrano I (WD21) Terrano II (R20/R50) Terrano III (Duster)
Body type Carrier (based on Sunny) Load-bearing (reinforced) Carrier (platform B0)
Patency Average High (for its class) Moderate (SUV)
Reliability Low (corrosion) High (with proper care) Average (weak suspension and electronics)
Used price (2026) From 150,000 rub. From 300,000 rub. From 800,000 rub.

The choice depends on your goals:

  • 🔧 For collection or retro touring: Terrano I or Regulus (if you find it).
  • 🏕️ For off-road and travel: Terrano II R500 with diesel and manual transmission.
  • 🚗 For the city and rare trips into nature: Terrano III (but it's better to consider Duster - it's cheaper).
💡

The Terrano II (R500) is the best choice for true off-road use, but requires investment in maintenance. Terrano III is only suitable as a budget urban crossover.

6. Rare and special versions of Terrano

In addition to production models, Nissan Terrano had several unique modifications that few people know about:

1. Nissan Terrano II Paris-Dakar (1990s)

Special version for rally Paris-Dakar, equipped turbodiesel 2.7 TD power 150 hp, reinforced suspension and crankcase protection. In total, approximately 50 copies, most of whom participated in the races.

2. Nissan Terrano II Electric (2000)

Experimental electric vehicle based on Terrano II with batteries Ni-MH and power reserve 120 km. The project was closed due to the high cost and low battery capacity.

3. Nissan Terrano R500 "Arctic" (2000s)

Special version for Scandinavian countries with heated all seats, pre-heater and insulated interior. It featured improved sound insulation and winter studded tires as standard.

4. Nissan Terrano III "Black Edition" (2018)

Limited edition for Russia with black body trim, LED headlights and leather interior. Total released 500 cars.

💡

If you come across a Terrano II with the "Paris-Dakar" nameplate, check its history. Many of these cars have been converted by enthusiasts from regular versions.

7. Tips for buying a used Nissan Terrano

When choosing a used one Nissan Terrano pay attention to the following points:

For Terrano I (WD21):

  • 🔍 Check it out spars and sills for through corrosion.
  • 🛢️ Engines 2.4 prone to overheating — check the condition of the radiator and pump.
  • 🔄 The distribution box often wears out gears — There should be no crunch when switching.

For Terrano II (R20/R50):

  • 🔧 Suspension: check the silent blocks of the levers and ball joints - they wear out by 150,000 km.
  • 🛢️ Diesel engines TD27 require quality fuel — otherwise the injection pump suffers.
  • 🔋 Electrical: often fails ABS sensors And generator.

For Terrano III (Duster):

  • 🚗 Check it out Haldex coupling (on all-wheel drive versions) - its repair costs 50,000–80,000 rubles.
  • 🔥 Gasoline engines 1.6 And 2.0 can eat butter after 100,000 km.
  • 🛡️ Anti-corrosion treatment is weak - inspect arches and bottom.
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Terrano II with mileage over 200,000 km be prepared for replacement rear axle — its resource is limited, and a new one costs from 100,000 rubles.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Terrano

🔹 Which Terrano is the most reliable?

Terrano II (R500) with diesel engine TD27 and a manual transmission is considered the most reliable. Gasoline versions 2.4 are also good, but require more frequent maintenance. Terrano III inferior in reliability due to weak suspension and electronics.

🔹 Is it possible to install HBO on Terrano II?

Yes, but only for petrol versions. The most suitable engines are: 2.4 (KA24E). For diesel TD27 HBO is not suitable. Important: after installation it is required ignition adjustment and checking the tightness of the system.

🔹 How is Terrano III different from Duster?

Main differences − front design (headlights, bumper, grille), steering wheel and dashboard from Nissan, as well as slightly different interior trim. Technically the cars are identical, but Terrano usually more expensive 50,000–100,000 rubles with equal equipment.

🔹 How much does it cost to restore Terrano II?

Engine overhaul TD27 costs 80,000–120,000 rubles, replacing the transfer case - 50,000 rubles, full body painting - from 150,000 rubles. When buying a used car 200,000+ km be prepared to invest more 200,000–300,000 rubles in the first year or two of operation.

🔹Where can I find spare parts for Terrano Regulus?

Most parts are interchangeable with Terrano II, but unique elements (for example, optics or interior trim) will have to be ordered from Japan. Prices for rare spare parts can reach 50,000–100,000 rubles for the detail.