The Nissan Terra 2.5 DDTi Automatic, produced from 2018 to 2021, is a mid-size SUV designed primarily for the Asian and Australian markets. While not officially sold in the United States, it represents Nissan’s offering in the body-on-frame SUV segment, a category popular in regions requiring robust off-road capability and passenger-carrying capacity. The Terra is essentially a rebadged and significantly updated version of the Nissan Navara (known as the Frontier in the US) pickup truck, sharing its ladder-frame chassis and powertrain, but with a focus on family comfort and practicality. It competes with vehicles like the Toyota Fortuner and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport in its target markets.
Nissan Terra 2.5 DDTi: An Overview
The Nissan Terra was developed as a dedicated SUV, differentiating itself from the pickup-based platforms common in many emerging markets. It aimed to provide a more refined and comfortable experience than traditional off-roaders while retaining their durability and capability. The 2.5 DDTi variant, equipped with a diesel engine and automatic transmission, was a key offering in the Terra lineup, balancing fuel efficiency with sufficient power for both on-road driving and moderate off-road excursions. The vehicle’s seven-seat configuration made it particularly appealing to larger families.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Nissan Terra 2.5 DDTi is the YD25DDTi 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine produces 190 horsepower at 3600 rpm and 450 Newton-meters (331.9 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler contribute to improved power output and efficiency. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a seven-speed automatic transmission. While not designed for outright speed, the engine provides ample torque for towing and navigating challenging terrain. The 2.5-liter displacement strikes a balance between fuel economy and performance, making it a practical choice for everyday use and longer journeys. The engine’s 76.4 horsepower per liter demonstrates a reasonable level of specific output for a diesel engine of this type.
Design & Features
The Nissan Terra is a five-door SUV with a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. It features a spacious interior with seating for up to seven passengers, arranged in a 2-3-2 configuration. The interior design prioritizes practicality and comfort, with durable materials and ample storage space. Key features include air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features, while varying by market and trim level, typically include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electric power steering. The Terra’s exterior design is characterized by a rugged and functional aesthetic, with a prominent grille, muscular fenders, and a high ride height (225mm or 8.86 inches of ground clearance). Approach and departure angles of 32.3° and 26.6° respectively, enhance its off-road capability. The vehicle is equipped with either 17-inch or 18-inch wheel rims, typically fitted with 255/65 R17 or 255/60 R18 tires. The body-on-frame construction contributes to the vehicle’s towing capacity and ability to handle rough road conditions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Terra |
| Generation | Terra |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 DDTi (190 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 2000 rpm / 331.9 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm |
| Engine Model/Code | YD25DDTi |
| Engine displacement | 2488 cm3 / 151.83 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l / 5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt |
| Coolant | 10.6 l / 11.2 US qt | 9.33 UK qt |
| Max. weight | 2700 kg / 5952.48 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l / 21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal |
| Length | 4885 mm / 192.32 in |
| Width | 1865 mm / 73.43 in |
| Height | 1835 mm / 72.24 in |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm / 112.2 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 225 mm / 8.86 in |
| Approach angle | 32.3° |
| Departure angle | 26.6° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system), Power steering (Electric) |
| Tires size | 255/65 R17; 255/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
The Nissan Terra 2.5 DDTi, while not a vehicle commonly found in the US market, represents a significant offering in regions where robust, seven-seat SUVs are in demand. Its combination of diesel power, automatic transmission, and body-on-frame construction provides a practical and capable vehicle for families and those requiring off-road capability. It stands as a testament to Nissan’s adaptability in catering to diverse global markets.
