Nissan Terrano: next-gen compact SUV not for Oz

Based on the Renault-owned Dacia Duster compact SUV, the new Nissan Terrano distinguishes itself from its Alliance sibling thanks to a new front end featuring a new bonnet, angular headlights and a chrome-highlighted grille in-line with the larger Nissan Pathfinder and Patrol.

At the rear, the Terrano gains slightly revised tail-lights and a re-skinned tailgate. Blacked-out pillars, silver wing mirrors and roof racks and new alloy wheels complete the exterior changes.

Cabin changes are less dramatic, comprising a new steering wheel, audio system, air vents, dash top-mounted storage space and new wood-style trim inserts for the centre console and door panels.

Power will come from a choice of a 78kW 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, or 63kW and 82kW 1.5-litre diesels – units common to the Duster.

Referred to as a “premium SUV” by Nissan, but looking far less aggressive than the car’s original design sketches, the Terrano will be produced in right-hand drive at the Japanese manufacturer’s Oragadam Plant in India before going on sale in that market from October.

Nissan Australia corporate communications general manager Peter Fadeyev says there are currently no plans for the new Nissan Terrano to be released locally. The Terrano II was last sold here in the 1990s.

A facelifted version of the Dacia Duster will make its debut at the Frankfurt motor show on September 10.