The Nissan Terrano II (R20) is a compact SUV produced by Nissan from 2001 to 2004. While not officially sold in the United States, the Terrano II was a significant model in the European market, positioned as a robust and practical vehicle for both on-road and light off-road use. It represented Nissan’s second attempt at a dedicated SUV in the European segment, building upon the success of the original Terrano. The R20 generation, specifically the 3.0 TDi 16V (5 dr) variant with 154 horsepower, offered a compelling blend of diesel efficiency, spaciousness, and four-wheel-drive capability, making it a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Nissan Terrano II (R20): An Overview
The Terrano II was developed as a collaborative effort with Renault, sharing many components with the Renault Koleos that would arrive later. It aimed to provide a more modern and refined experience compared to its predecessor, with improved ride quality, interior appointments, and safety features. The 3.0 TDi model, equipped with a turbocharged diesel engine, was a key offering, providing ample torque for towing and navigating challenging terrain. The five-door body style offered practicality and passenger comfort, solidifying its position as a versatile family vehicle in the European SUV landscape.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Terrano II 3.0 TDi 16V is a 2.953-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the ZD30Ti. This engine produces 154 horsepower at 3600 rpm and a substantial 304 Nm (224.22 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1600 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, providing a balance of control and fuel economy. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 13.3 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 12.6 seconds. The Terrano II 3.0 TDi boasts a maximum speed of 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 12.7 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 6.4 kg/Nm demonstrate a reasonable balance between engine output and vehicle mass.
Design & Features
The Nissan Terrano II (R20) features a traditional SUV body style with a five-door configuration and seating for five passengers. Its design prioritizes practicality and robustness, with a relatively high ground clearance and a sturdy build. The exterior styling is functional rather than flamboyant, reflecting its intended use as a versatile vehicle. Inside, the Terrano II offers a spacious cabin with a focus on durability and ease of use. Key features include hydraulic power steering and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 115 liters (4.06 cu. ft.), expanding to a generous 1900 liters (67.1 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down, providing ample space for luggage and cargo. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4697 mm (184.92 in) in length, 1755 mm (69.09 in) in width, and 1850 mm (72.83 in) in height – contribute to its spacious interior and comfortable ride.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Terrano |
| Generation | Terrano II (R20) |
| Type | 3.0 TDi 16V (5 dr) (154 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg / 25 UK mpg / 8.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg / 38.2 UK mpg / 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.8 l/100 km (26.7 US mpg / 32.1 UK mpg / 11.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 154 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Torque | 304 Nm @ 1600 rpm (224.22 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | ZD30Ti |
| Engine displacement | 2953 cm3 (180.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 102 mm (4.02 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.6 l (11.2 US qt | 9.33 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1950 kg (4299.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2510 kg (5533.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 115 l (4.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1900 l (67.1 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4697 mm (184.92 in.) |
| Width | 1755 mm (69.09 in.) |
| Height | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Rear track | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/70 R16 |
The Nissan Terrano II (R20) 3.0 TDi 16V represented a solid offering in the European compact SUV segment. Its combination of diesel efficiency, four-wheel-drive capability, and spacious interior made it a practical and versatile vehicle for a wide range of drivers.
