Used Nissan Terrano 4x4 1993 - 2007 review
Category: Large SUV
The Nissan Terrano is a decent enough family workhorse, but hardly outstanding
What's the used Nissan Terrano II 4x4 like?
The Nissan Terrano was one half of a joint venture between Nissan and Ford that also produced the original Ford Maverick. However, the Terrano has out-lived its Ford counterpart by several years.
Two very different versions of the car are available: a sporty three-door aimed at the fashion-conscious and the larger five-door, with a longer wheelbase, which makes a decent alternative to mainstream family car.
Overall, the Terrano makes most sense as a workhorse, as it's not as trendy as rivals like the Toyota RAV4. The Nissan's cabin lacks the class of a Land Rover Freelander's, for example, but both versions have a decent amount of space inside.
True, it isn't as sharp to drive as a Toyota RAV4 and it's no Land Rover away from the Tarmac, but it does have a good, even blend of on- and off-road ability, and makes a decent tow car.
Ownership cost
What used Nissan Terrano II 4x4 will I get for my budget?
How much does it cost to run a Nissan Terrano II 4x4?
Fuel economy does the Terrano no favours. Its 2.4-litre petrol engine is thirstier than the 2.0-litre unit in the Honda CR-V and the Freelander's 1.8, while the 2.7 diesel is less economical than the RAV4's 2.0-litre petrol engine, never mind its diesel.
However, Warranty Direct says that Nissan labour rates are among the lowest, and that the average cost of repairs to the Terrano are similar to those for other off-roaders.
Our recommendations
Which used Nissan Terrano II 4x4 should I buy?
Originally, the choice of engine was simply between a 2.4-litre petrol and a 2.7-litre turbodiesel, and it remained that way until April 2002, when a 3.0-litre turbodiesel was added.
The best engine is the stronger TDi version of the 2.7-litre engine, introduced in July 1996 and perfectly suited to the Terrano's workhorse nature. The 2.4 petrol is cheaper to buy, but it just doesn't have the pulling power of the 2.7, whereas the 3.0-litre comes only with the upper trims and remains very expensive.
Again, bearing in mind the car's no-nonsense character, we think it works best as a five-door. Not only does it give you more space inside, it also rides more comfortably.
It's best to avoid the most basic models (LX and, from July '96, S) and look for an SE, introduced in '96. SVE is the most lavish, with leather upholstery, but it's not worth the expense.
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