The Nissan Terrano I (WD21) is a robust, body-on-frame sport utility vehicle (SUV) produced by Nissan from 1987 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, Mitsubishi Pajero, and Isuzu Trooper. The Terrano I established a foothold for Nissan in the growing SUV segment, paving the way for later, more globally-focused models. This article details the 2.7 TD 4WD Automatic variant, a popular configuration known for its diesel efficiency and off-road capability.
Nissan Terrano I (WD21): A Detailed Overview
The Terrano I, designated as the WD21 chassis code, represented Nissan’s entry into the mid-size SUV market. It was designed to be a versatile vehicle, capable of both daily commuting and tackling challenging terrain. Offered with both short-wheelbase (3-door) and long-wheelbase (5-door) configurations, the Terrano catered to a wide range of buyers. The 2.7 TD 4WD Automatic model combined a turbocharged diesel engine with a convenient automatic transmission and a robust four-wheel-drive system, making it a practical choice for those needing a capable and reliable vehicle.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Terrano I 2.7 TD 4WD is a 2.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine produces 99 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 216 Nm (159.31 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2200 rpm. While the horsepower figure may seem modest by modern standards, the diesel engine’s torque output provides ample pulling power, particularly useful for off-road driving and towing. The engine utilizes a precombustion chamber injection system and is turbocharged, enhancing its efficiency and power delivery. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 18 seconds, and it reaches a maximum speed of 150 km/h (93.21 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 16.9 kg/Hp, while the weight-to-torque ratio is 7.7 kg/Nm, indicating a focus on usable power rather than outright speed. Fuel economy is rated at 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg) combined, with 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg) in urban settings and 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle.
Design & Features
The Nissan Terrano I features a traditional SUV body style, characterized by its boxy shape and high ground clearance. It’s available in both 3-door and 5-door configurations, with the 5-door model offering increased passenger space and practicality. The vehicle seats five occupants and boasts a trunk space ranging from 425 liters (15.01 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1550 liters (54.74 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The Terrano I’s interior is functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Features included hydraulic power steering, ventilated front disc brakes, and drum brakes on the rear. The suspension system utilizes a double wishbone setup at the front and coil springs at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and good off-road capability. The 4WD system allows the driver to select between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes, enhancing traction in various conditions. Safety features of the era were relatively basic, focusing on structural integrity and driver awareness.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Terrano |
| Generation | Terrano I (WD21) |
| Type | 2.7 TD 4WD (99 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1987 |
| End of production | 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3/5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 18 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 18 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 17.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 150 km/h (93.21 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 99 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 37.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 216 Nm @ 2200 rpm (159.31 lb.-ft. @ 2200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2663 cm3 (162.51 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 21.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Kerb Weight | 1670 kg (3681.72 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 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 | Drum |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/75 R15 |
The Nissan Terrano I (WD21) 2.7 TD 4WD Automatic remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and those seeking a reliable and capable off-road vehicle. Its robust construction, efficient diesel engine, and practical design have ensured its longevity and enduring appeal.
