The Nissan Terrano I (WD21) 3.0 i 4WD, produced from 1990 to 1995, represents Nissan’s entry into the increasingly popular mid-size SUV segment. While not officially sold in the United States during its production run, the Terrano was a significant vehicle in European and Asian markets, particularly as a robust and capable off-road vehicle. It served as a competitor to vehicles like the Suzuki Vitara and Toyota RAV4, offering a blend of practicality, durability, and four-wheel-drive capability. The WD21 generation laid the foundation for subsequent Terrano models and established Nissan as a key player in the growing SUV market.
Nissan Terrano I (WD21): A Detailed Overview
The Terrano I, designated as the WD21 chassis code, was designed to provide a versatile vehicle suitable for both on-road commuting and off-road adventures. Available in both 3-door and 5-door configurations, it catered to a range of customer needs, from those seeking a compact utility vehicle to families requiring more space. The 3.0 i 4WD variant, equipped with a 3.0-liter V6 engine, was a popular choice for buyers prioritizing performance and all-terrain capability. The Terrano’s design emphasized functionality and ruggedness, reflecting the demands of its target market.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Terrano I 3.0 i 4WD is a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine, producing 148 horsepower at 4600 rpm and 239 Nm (176.28 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. This engine, with a compression ratio of 9:1, utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and an Overhead Cam (OHC) valvetrain with 2 valves per cylinder. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution, enhancing handling characteristics. The power-to-weight ratio of 12.4 kg/Hp and torque-to-weight ratio of 7.7 kg/Nm provide adequate performance for both on-road driving and moderate off-road conditions. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.6 seconds, while the vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 166 km/h (103.15 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 14.3 l/100 km (16.4 US mpg) combined, with 15.4 l/100 km (15.3 US mpg) in urban settings and 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle.
Design & Features
The Nissan Terrano I is a classic body-on-frame SUV, offering a robust and durable construction. The vehicle is available in both 3-door and 5-door body styles, providing flexibility for different passenger and cargo needs. The 5-door version offers increased practicality for families, while the 3-door model appeals to those prioritizing a more compact and sporty appearance. The interior is functional and utilitarian, designed for durability rather than luxury. Key features include a spacious cabin capable of seating five passengers, and a versatile cargo area with a minimum capacity of 425 liters (15.01 cu. ft.) expanding to 1550 liters (54.74 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The Terrano I features a hydraulic power steering system and a 5-speed manual transmission. Safety features for the time included ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels, disc brakes on the rear, and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to enhance braking performance and stability. The vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system, coupled with its robust suspension – a double wishbone setup at the front and coil springs at the rear – provides excellent off-road capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Terrano |
| Generation | Terrano I (WD21) |
| Type | 3.0 i 4WD (148 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1990 |
| End of production | 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3/5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.4 l/100 km (15.3 US mpg, 18.3 UK mpg, 6.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.3 l/100 km (16.4 US mpg, 19.8 UK mpg, 7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12 sec |
| Maximum speed | 166 km/h (103.15 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 148 Hp @ 4600 rpm |
| Torque | 239 Nm @ 4000 rpm (176.28 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2960 cm3 (180.63 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1835 kg (4045.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 465 kg (1025.15 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 425 l (15.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1550 l (54.74 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4365 mm (171.85 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/75 R15 |
The Nissan Terrano I (WD21) 3.0 i 4WD remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and collectors, appreciated for its ruggedness, reliability, and off-road capability. While not a luxury vehicle, it provided a practical and durable solution for those seeking a versatile SUV in the early 1990s.
