The Nissan Terrano I (WD21) is a robust, body-on-frame sport utility vehicle (SUV) produced by Nissan from 1990 to 1995. While not initially sold in the United States, the Terrano was a significant vehicle in the European and Japanese markets, offering a capable and relatively affordable four-wheel-drive option. It served as a direct competitor to vehicles like the Toyota Hilux Surf and Mitsubishi Pajero. The Terrano I, particularly the 3.0i 4WD Automatic variant, represented a blend of off-road capability and on-road comfort, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile vehicle for both work and leisure.
Nissan Terrano I (WD21): A Detailed Overview
The Terrano I (WD21) was designed to fill a gap in Nissan’s lineup, providing a more rugged and utilitarian SUV compared to the more car-like offerings of the time. It was based on the Nissan Datsun Truck chassis, sharing many components with the Nissan Navara/Datsun Pickup. The WD21 designation refers to the chassis code, and the model quickly gained a reputation for its durability and off-road prowess. The 3.0i 4WD Automatic version, equipped with a V6 engine and automatic transmission, was a popular choice for those prioritizing ease of use and refinement.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Terrano I 3.0i 4WD Automatic is a 2.9-liter (2960 cm3 or 180.63 cu. in.) V6 gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 148 horsepower (Hp) at 4600 rpm and 239 Newton-meters (176.28 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine features a multi-port fuel injection system and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with 2 valves per cylinder. Power delivery is managed through a 4-speed automatic transmission, sending power to all four wheels via a 4×4 drivetrain. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.6 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 12 seconds. The Terrano I 3.0i 4WD Automatic has a maximum speed of 166 km/h (103.15 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 12.4 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 7.7 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Nissan Terrano I is characterized by its traditional SUV styling, featuring a boxy silhouette and robust construction. It was available in both 3-door and 5-door configurations, offering varying levels of practicality. The 3.0i 4WD Automatic model typically came well-equipped for its time, including features like hydraulic power steering and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The interior offered seating for five passengers and provided a reasonable level of comfort, although it prioritized functionality over luxury. Trunk space is quite versatile, ranging from a minimum of 425 liters (15.01 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1550 liters (54.74 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The body-on-frame construction contributes to the vehicle’s durability and off-road capability, making it suitable for tackling challenging terrain. The suspension utilizes a double wishbone setup at the front and coil springs at the rear, providing a balance between ride comfort and off-road performance. Ventilated disc brakes are found on the front wheels, while disc brakes are used on the rear.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Terrano |
| Generation | Terrano I (WD21) |
| Type | 3.0 i 4WD (148 Hp) Automatic |
| 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 | 4 gears, automatic 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Nissan Terrano I (WD21) 3.0i 4WD Automatic remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and collectors due to its robust construction, off-road capability, and relative simplicity. While not known for blistering performance, it offers a dependable and versatile platform for a variety of applications.
