Owners Nissan Terrano The second generation is often the object of close attention in the automotive community, as this crossover occupies a unique niche between budget SUVs and serious SUVs. Many potential buyers are looking for actual operating experience in order to understand how the machine corresponds to the declared characteristics in harsh Russian conditions. Reviews about Nissan Terrano 2 are formed under the influence of two key factors: the heritage of the Renault Duster platform and the features of assembly at the plant in St. Petersburg.
The situation with reliability and comfort is ambiguous here. On the one hand, the car is praised for its spacious interior and excellent geometric cross-country ability, on the other hand, it is criticized for sound insulation and the quality of plastic. Whether you're considering buying a used one or considering a new one, it's important to understand the details that dealers often miss. In this material, we have collected and structured the most current opinions of real drivers to help you make an informed decision.
Engines and transmission: choosing between power and efficiency
Under the hood Nissan Terrano The second generation hides time-tested power units that have proven themselves on many models of the Renault-Nissan alliance. Most often, owners are faced with two options: a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine with 115 horsepower and a more powerful 2.0-liter engine with 135 horsepower. Both engines are considered quite durable, subject to compliance with the regulations maintenance and the use of high-quality fuel.
1.6 liter H4M demonstrates modest dynamics, especially when fully equipped with air conditioning, but pleases with moderate fuel consumption in the urban cycle. Owners note that this is enough for a quiet ride, but when overtaking on the highway you often have to engage a lower gear. 2.0 liter H4M (or F4R in older versions) feels much more confident, providing confident acceleration and power reserves for towing a trailer, but its appetite for gasoline is noticeably higher.
The engines are paired with both a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Manual transmission gearbox appreciated for the clarity of switching and the absence of problems with drive cables. Automatic transmissions, despite the age of the technology, are considered reliable, but require more careful maintenance.
The clutch on both types of transmissions has a service life of about 100-120 thousand kilometers, which is an average for the class. When replacing the basket, many owners recommend immediately changing the release bearing to avoid repeated dismantling of the box. It is also worth monitoring the condition clutch on cars with mileage of more than 80 thousand km, since disc wear can manifest itself in the form of jerks at start-up.
- ✅ 2.0-liter engine is ideal for off-road and active driving
- ⚠️ 1.6-liter engine requires frequent gear changes when overtaking
- ✅ The manual transmission is highly reliable and maintainable
⚠️ Attention: When operating a car in traffic jams with an automatic transmission, be sure to use the “N” mode during long stops to prevent overheating of the torque converter and oil.
- 1.6 l (economy)
- 2.0 l (power)
- I don't know, I'm still choosing
- I already have experience
Chassis and cross-country ability: strengths and weaknesses
One of the main features Nissan Terrano is its suspension, which inherited design solutions from Renault Duster. The front independent MacPherson strut suspension and multi-link rear suspension provide a decent ride even on bad roads. Owners often praise the car for its ability to “swallow” potholes and bumps without much shaking in the cabin, which makes travel comfortable for the whole family.
However, there are also nuances. The rear beam on some versions (especially with all-wheel drive) can create a "yaw" sensation at high speeds or during sharp turns. Shock absorbers stock ones are considered soft and often require replacement at 60-70 thousand kilometers, especially if you like to drive over rough terrain. Rear springs also tend to sag over time, which changes the vehicle's ride height.
As for cross-country ability, then Nissan Terrano with all-wheel drive and clutch locking it shows excellent results. Ground clearance of 205 mm allows you to confidently overcome snowdrifts and fords up to 30 cm deep. All-wheel drive system four-wheel drive connects automatically or forcefully, effectively distributing torque. However, the lack of a reduction gear (transfer case) limits capabilities on very steep slopes or in deep mud without prior preparation.
The electric power steering provides light steering at low speeds, which is comfortable for parking, but can feel too light and hollow on the highway. Many owners note the need to periodically adjust the steering rack, as it is prone to knocking noises after 100 thousand kilometers. It is better to carry out adjustments by specialists who have experience working with the B0 platform.
- ✅ Ground clearance of 205 mm allows you to drive confidently on snow and dirt roads
- ⚠️ The rear suspension may require replacement of shock absorbers before the declared resource
- ✅ Four-wheel drive clutch lock works effectively in difficult conditions
Before buying a used Terrano, be sure to check the condition of the rear control arm silent blocks - they often crack and cause vibrations when driving over uneven surfaces.
Body and corrosion resistance: myths and reality
The issue of rust is always acute for car owners operating in regions with harsh winters and the use of reagents. Body Nissan Terrano the second generation is galvanized, but the degree of protection varies depending on the year of manufacture and place of assembly. The owners note that with careful use and timely washing, the body retains its original appearance for more than 5-7 years without serious problems.
However, there are vulnerabilities that require attention. Most often, corrosion begins on the wheel arches, sills and in the area where the bumpers are attached. Corrosion It can also appear on the bottom if it is not treated with anti-gravel or a protective compound. Owners living in coastal areas or regions with frequent precipitation are advised to carry out preventive inspection and treatment of hidden cavities at least once every two years.
It is especially worth monitoring the condition of the paintwork on the hood and roof, where moisture and dirt often accumulate. Chips on the front bumper and fenders can quickly turn into rust spots if they are not painted over in a timely manner. Many owners install immediately after purchase protective film to risk areas, which significantly extends the service life of the body and preserves the resale value of the car.
Door frames and seals also require regular cleaning. Trapped dirt and salt in the seals can lead to corrosion of the metal under the rubber bands, which is not noticeable during a quick inspection. Use a special lubricant for the seals so that they do not freeze in winter and do not harden in the cold. This is a simple procedure, but it saves the metal from premature rotting.
- ✅ Galvanized body provides basic rust protection
- ⚠️ Arches and sills are the most vulnerable places for corrosion and require protection
- ✅ Timely washing of the underbody and arches extends the life of the car
How to check for hidden corrosion?
Inspect the bottom of the lift, pay attention to the attachment points of the subframe and levers. Inspect the inside of the arches, removing the wheel arch liners if they are removable. Check the condition of the door seals by lifting them and inspecting the metal.
Interior and ergonomics: comfort on the road
Salon Nissan Terrano made in a utilitarian style, which corresponds to its image of a reliable working tool. The plastic is hard, but pleasant to the touch, and the assembly is generally of high quality, although there are creaks at the joints of the panels after 50 thousand kilometers. Ergonomics thought out logically: all controls are at hand, and the multimedia system is intuitive, even for beginners.
Rear-seat passenger space is spacious enough for average-sized people, but tall passengers may find their knees resting on the front seats. The backrest of the rear sofa has the ability to adjust the angle of inclination, which increases comfort on long trips. The luggage compartment holds about 408 liters, and with the seats folded down the volume increases to 1500 liters, which allows you to transport large cargo.
Noise insulation remains the weak point of the car. Noise from the wheel arches, wind and engine is clearly audible at speeds above 90 km/h. Owners often carry out additional sound insulation, especially arches and doors, which significantly improves acoustic comfort. Noise insulation The interior is one of the most popular modifications that owners make to improve the quality of life in their car.
The climate system works efficiently, quickly warming up the interior in winter and cooling it in summer. The air conditioning on all trim levels copes with its task, but in very hot weather it can work intermittently. Heated seats and steering wheel (depending on equipment) are an important advantage in the cold season, making trips more comfortable.
☑️ Checklist for checking the interior before purchasing
⚠️ Attention: When using a multimedia system with a touch screen, avoid pressing sharply, as the sensor may be sensitive and may begin to malfunction over time.
Operation and Maintenance: What to Expect from the Owner
Maintenance cost Nissan Terrano is considered one of the most affordable in its class. Spare parts are widely available on the market, and many parts have analogues from Renault, which simplifies the search and reduces the cost of repairs. Maintenance It is recommended to carry out every 15 thousand kilometers or once a year, depending on operating conditions.
It is better to change the engine oil more often than required, especially when operating in the city or off-road. Using high-quality oil and filters extends the life of the engine and reduces the risk of problems with the ignition system. Transmission oil in axles and transfer cases also requires regular replacement, although some manufacturers claim a “lifetime” service life, which is a myth.
Consumables such as spark plugs, brake pads and filters are inexpensive and easy to change yourself. Many owners note that even complex repairs, such as replacing a timing belt, are cheaper than competitors. Repair the car does not require special equipment, which allows it to be carried out in ordinary garage workshops.
However, it is worth considering that some electronic components may be sensitive to voltage fluctuations. It is recommended to monitor the condition of the battery and generator, especially in winter. Also, do not ignore the signals from the sensors on the dashboard, as modern systems may require computer diagnostics.
- ✅ Spare parts are available and inexpensive, many analogues from Renault
- ⚠️ Engine and transmission oil require frequent changes under severe conditions
- ✅ Simple design allows you to do many jobs yourself
| Parameter | Meaning | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Clearance | 205 mm | One of the best performance in the class |
| Trunk volume | 408-1500 l | Roomy with seats folded down |
| Fuel consumption (city) | 10-12 l/100 km | Depends on engine and driving style |
| Engine life | 300,000+ km | With timely maintenance |
| Maintenance cost | Low | Availability of spare parts and ease of work |
⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a used car, be sure to check the service history and signs of accident repairs, as body parts may not be original.
Final Summary: Is it worth buying?
Nissan Terrano The second generation is a car that offers an excellent balance between off-road capability, comfort and cost of ownership. It's not a perfect solution in every aspect, but for those looking for a reliable hard-worker for the city and light travel, it's ideal. Reliability and simplicity of design make it an attractive choice for family users and those who frequently travel out of town.
However, if you are looking for premium comfort, perfect sound insulation or sporty dynamics, this car may disappoint you. Quality of materials interior and noise levels on the highway remain at average levels. However, for the price Nissan Terrano offers excellent capabilities, especially in full trims with all-wheel drive and modern safety systems.
Ultimately, your purchasing decision comes down to your priorities. If you need a machine that will not fail in difficult conditions and will not require large repair costs, Nissan Terrano - an excellent choice. The main advantage of the model is its ability to combine off-road qualities with an affordable maintenance price, making it one of the most popular models on the secondary market.
Before purchasing, be sure to take a test drive to evaluate comfort and handling for yourself. Pay attention to the condition of the suspension, engine and body to avoid hidden problems. A correctly chosen copy will serve you faithfully for many years, delighting you with reliability and versatility.
Which engine is better to choose for Nissan Terrano 2?
For quiet city driving, a 1.6-liter engine is suitable, which is more economical. If you plan to frequently travel outdoors, tow a trailer, or drive on the highway with a full load, the 2.0-liter engine will provide the necessary dynamics and power reserves.
How reliable is all-wheel drive in the Nissan Terrano 2?
All-wheel drive is considered reliable, but the clutch requires regular maintenance and oil changes. Avoid unnecessary prolonged slipping, as this can lead to overheating and failure of the clutch.
What are the main body problems?
The main problem is corrosion in the arches, sills and underbody in the absence of protection. Galvanization helps, but does not protect against aggressive reagents. Regular washing and anticorrosive treatment is recommended.
Is it worth doing soundproofing?
Yes, many owners do sound insulation after purchase, since the standard noise protection is weak. Sound insulation of arches and doors is especially effective, which significantly reduces the noise level on the highway.
What is the real resource of the engine?
With proper maintenance and the use of high-quality consumables, engines can travel more than 300,000 kilometers without major repairs. The main thing is to change the oil on time and monitor the cooling system.