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Nissan Terrano Station Wagon engines, drive and performance

1993 - 2007 (change model)
Performance rating: 1.5 out of 51.5

Written by Parkers Published: 6 June 2019 Updated: 6 June 2019

Three engines have powered Terrano. The 100bhp 2.4-litre petrol unit ran from 1993-2001. It wasn’t a sprinter, but was fairly relaxed at motorway speeds. The 2.7-litre diesel has also been around since launch, but was greatly improved in 1996, when it gained an extra 25bhp and an intercooler. But it still remains slow, plodding and noisy. The 3.0Di – from 2002 onwards – is a strong performer, but lacks the refinement of more modern engines.

None of the units impress.

A low ratio gearbox and long-travel suspension means that Terrano is a tough off-roader. It’s an excellent tow-car, too. But on the road, it falls behind nearly all of its rivals, with lots of bodyroll through corners, vague steering and a notchy gearchange. The soft ride is well suited to towns.