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It's a tribute, both to Nissan's dealer network and the company's marketing skills, that the Terrano II has done so well. The product itself was virtually identical to Ford's Maverick, both cars being developed in the early Nineties to plug what was then a growing demand for affordable family sized off roaders.
While the Maverick flopped, the Terrano II made useful profits for Nissan, selling in much greater numbers despite the smaller dealer network. It still suffers from an image problem however. Not even the most optimistic of Nissan dealers can pretend that this is any kind of Range Rover. The sensible ones concentrate on its less obvious virtues; rugged build, surprisingly good off road ability and proven reliability.
These attributes make it a good prospect as a second-hand buy so it's icing on the cake that used prices are reasonably attractive.
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Detailed ratings
Medium-Sized Family Hatch-Based SUVs
What you get
A decent family workhorse. The interior is just like that of any family hatchback. The trim quality is well up to standard and everything falls easily to hand. All major equipment is in evidence; second generation Terrano IIs come with tilt adjustable wheel and power steering as standard while the plusher models add electric windows, central locking and an electric sunroof. Some also have air conditioning.
However, there's little of the class you'd expect in an up-market family saloon. Hard plastic is everywhere. Still, it's practical. So is the reliability; Terrano IIs have a reputation for not breaking down - something many Vauxhall Frontera owners would kill for.
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What to look for
As with any used 4x4, check for signs of heavy off road use. Few Terrano IIs will have done anything harder than climb a grass verge but you can never be too careful. Oil leaks, smoky turbo diesel engines, worn rear shock absorbers and poor-fitting interior trim have all been known.
Apparently, some diesels suffered from a driveline vibration which required a special clutch assembly. If you notice this on the test drive, find out if the clutch has been changed. And, on the subject of turbo diesels, try and stretch to an intercooled post-June 1996 model if you can. Otherwise, resign yourself to the slow lane.
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Replacement parts
(approx. for a 1995 2.4) As you might expect from a Nissan, parts are plentiful - but in the case of this model, they're not particularly cheap. A clutch assembly is around £200, brake pads are around £60 front and £75 rear, a full exhaust system about £400, a starter motor about £225, an alternator around £190, a radiator about £210 and a headlamp about £80.
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On the road
Such 4x4 vehicles are usually bought by those who want to carry six or seven people in comfort, tow a trailer and carry two months' worth of shopping plus a soggy dog. All these requirements are comfortably within the Terrano II's abilities. You may find the rear door annoying, though, as it's hinged to open from the right which is usually away from the kerb on right-hand drive cars.
Though the Terrano II is obviously not designed as an out-and-out mud-plugger, it's quite competent enough off road to stay with its illustrious rivals over any ploughed field or icy slope.
Beyond that, you'd have to concede best to the more accomplished (and expensive) off roaders in the class. Having said that, what's the point in paying for all that extra mud-plugging ability if you're not going to use it?
What would be useful is the option to use 4WD during reasonably fast road use for peace of mind in slippery conditions. Still, there is a limited slip differential to keep the wheels from spinning too much.
Once you're on the dirt, you can reach for the second gear lever to bring full-time 4WD into play. At that point, you must choose between high and low ratios depending on the conditions and suddenly, particularly in turbo diesel form, the impressive low down pulling power of the engine comes into its own.
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Overall
Some versions are cheaper while others are pricier than their Ford Maverick equivalents. However, if you're buying a later, low mileage example, the Nissan has the longer warranty. The Terrano II is a safe if unexciting buy for the outdoor family.
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