Terrano, Best Value 4WD (In Town)

What You Get

Three speed automatic with over drive (two high, four high or four low) or duel range 5speed manual. Five seats, pitch and roll indicators, plus altimeter, sun roof, air-conditioning, power selector, digital clock, cassette player, sport and touring suspension settings, heavy velour (almost corduroy) interior and optional two tone paint. Headlight washers, side steps, swing away rear wheel, lifting tailgate and remote opening pop up rear window (released on dash) parking mirror, weather defectors all ‘round, Oh, and hidden back door handles.

Driving and owning


The 2.7 litre turbo engine has plenty of diesel character; puff of smoke on start up, noisy and rough at idle, its torquey, but no sprinter. Boot space is adequate, but large speaker and suspension ponds cut well into the usable width. The power windows, require a firm touch and mirror controls are strangely located out of the way. However,  due to it’s low and compact style, on the road the Terrano handles well, not the ‘truck’ that many others are. This along with the high levels of equipment, make the Terrano experience a pleasant one.

With the rising cost of fuel, the economical diesel option looks more and more attractive. In this price range and with similar features, the choice is between an R3M and a 2.4 litre Surf. Being lower, the Terrano has the edge around bends, but the Surf more than compensates with true off road ability and significantly more torque. Around town we'll take the Terrano. For anywhere else, or for towing, the Surf.

Many thanks to Just Jap Auto Imports in Kirrawee
for providing us with our test vehicles.
Contact them on 02.9545.0532 or Just Jap.com