Nissan Terrano is the end product of badge engineering wherein the sharing between two companies does not end with engine but body panels too. Derived on the same concept of Duster, upcoming Terrano is a product of the alliance between Renault and Nissan. Unlike the other re-badged versions like Micra and Pulse, Sunny and Scala, the compact Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) of Nissan carries a distinct identity as compared to its sibling.
Credit must be given to Nissan designers, who have efficiently managed to restructure every part of Terrano, giving it a fresh lease of life. The sharp edges of Terrano are also worth mentioning as rounded design of Duster gives it a conventional look and on this count, the car of Nissan outdoes its sibling. However, some similarities like protruding wheel arches that can be seen in Terrano point to Duster. While the sides of Terrano might also look familiar with its sibling but the overall running creases and body line of Terrano are quite different.
In terms of engine specifications, the compact SUV of Nissan would be offered in the petrol and diesel engine options. The 1.6-litre MPFI and 1.5-litre K9K DCi engine share the same technology, which has been carried forward from Duster. Also to mention, the output levels are also quite similar. As far as the petrol version of Terrano is concerned, the 1598 cc petrol engine generates a maximum power of 102 bhp at 5850 rpm. On the other hand, Duster carries a 1461cc dCi engine that is offered in differently tuned specifications of 83 bhp and 108 bhp. In the latter, the peak power functions at 3900 rpm and the maximum torque attained is 248 Nm. While for the 83 bhp one, the peak torque is 200 Nm that is available from a lower 1,900 rpm level. As far as the transmission is concerned, Renault Duster and Nissan Terrano share the same gearbox. The diesel engine of Terrano is equipped with a 6-speed manual unit that is carried forward from Renault Duster.
As claimed by the company, the mileage of petrol version of Terrano stands at 13.2 kmpl while for the 108 bhp model it is 19.01 kmpl and 83 bhp version is 20.45 kmpl. In terms of price, Nissan has not made any information public regarding. However, the company has already announced that it would fall sub-Rs. 10 lakh category, industry experts are betting on the figure of Rs. 9 lakh for the base variant. While on the other hand, Renault Duster carries a price tag of Rs. 7.99 lakh for the introductory variant whereas the top-spec one is offered at Rs. 12.18 lakh (all prices are ex-showroom).
To sum up on the differences, Renault Duster and Nissan Terrano share the same platform and the major distinction between the two lies in their exterior appearances. Also, it seems the pricing strategy followed by both the companies would be different altogether as Terrano would significantly be costlier than the Duster.
