Review

Review: Nissan R20 Terrano II (1997-99)

2.5 stars

  • Response of 2.7-litre turbo-diesel engine from 2000-4000 rpm
  • Acceptable ride/handling balance
  • Off-road capability
  • 2.4-litre petrol engine lacks grunt
  • Front seats lack support
  • Limited luggage space

Overview

Released in April 1997, the Nissan R20 Terrano II was a seven-seat wagon with a part-time four-wheel drive system. The Terrano II was available as an RX or Ti variant, though both variants were available with either a 2.4-litre petrol engine or a 2.7-litre intercooled turbo-diesel unit; a five-speed manual transmission – with a two-speed transfer case – was standard across the range.

Manufactured in Spain, the R20 Terrano II was based on the WD21 Terrano platform. As such, the Terrano II had independent front suspension with upper and lower wishbones and torsion bars; at the rear, the Terrano had a live axle with coil springs, located by four trailing arms and a panhard rod. Furthermore, the Terrano II was 4665 mm long, 1755 mm wide, 1850 mm tall and had a 2650 mm long wheelbase.

The part-time four-wheel drive system included automatic free-wheeling hubs for the front axle. Four-wheel drive was available in high and low range gears and 4H could be selected on the move – without using the clutch – at speeds below 40 km/h, though movements in or out of 4L had to be executed when the vehicle was stationary. The Terrano II was also fitted with a limited slip rear differential.

Nissan R20 Terrano II specifications
Variants Engine Trans. Peak power Peak torque
RX,
Ti
2.7-litre turbo-diesel I4
(TD27Ti)
5sp man. 92 kW at 3600 rpm 278 Nm at 2000 rpm
2.4-litre petrol I4
(KA24E)
5sp man. 87 kW at 4800 rpm 191 Nm at 3200 rpm

Safety equipment

Within the Terrano II range, safety equipment was restricted to the Ti variant, which was fitted with a driver’s airbag and ABS.

Features: Terrano II RX and Ti

Standard features for the Terrano II RX included a four speaker sound system with a radio and cassette player, air conditioning, front fog lights, central locking, a tilt adjustable steering wheel, an alarm and immobiliser.

The Terrano II Ti was further equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels, a six speaker sound system, remote central locking, power windows and power mirrors.

Related links

Back To Top