Images of Nissan’s new Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour rival – the Terra – have been leaked online. Spotted completely undisguised, the new SUV is expected to be a China-only model, at least initially.
After much speculation about the SUV’s name, from the 'XTerra' (which was a model sold in the US until 2015) to the 'Paladin' (the Japanese model’s name), the images show that Nissan has adopted 'Terra' instead for the market.
The Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour (Everest in other markets) and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, all share their underpinnings with their respective pick-up siblings. Similarly, the Terra is based on the Navara’s ladder-frame chassis, although it looks decidedly different.
The grille and headlights follow Nissan’s current design language, while the large glasshouse with an upward sweeping theme can also seen on the brand's SUVs, sold internationally. The rear of the Terra sports a simpler design with horizontal tail-lamps and chrome trims on the tailgate. The SUV in the image is likely a lower-spec model as the front fog lights are missing.
The seven-seat SUV is expected to be powered by a 184hp, 2.5-litre petrol mill for the Chinese market, with an option of either a rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. A 2.3-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, in 158hp and 187hp states of tune, is also expected to be offered.
Nissan will officially take the wraps off the Terra at the Beijing Motor Show 2018 (Auto China) in April 2018, before going on sale in the country. While the Japanese manufacturer has not revealed if they will offer the Terra in India, the seven-seat SUV has a good potential in our market.
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