Navara-SUV might not make it here, though.
The SUV trend isn’t set on losing its momentum anytime soon, and it seems that Nissan is intent on throwing their hat into the mix. Using the platform of the NP300 Navara ute, it appears that the Japanese firm has built a rather handsome looking large SUV, called the ‘Terra.’
This isn’t brand-new information, far from it. We’ve carried leaked photos of what we thought was then called the ‘Xterra,’ reviving a name that has been around for a while in various guises, from an off-road-ready SUV in the States to a hydrogen-fuelled concept car.
“What I can assure you is Nissan is concentrating on, and is competent in, frame-based vehicles. We are going to cover each and every segment of body-on-frame vehicles. When? Wait a little bit longer, for the Beijing motor show.” — Ashwani Gupta, Vice President (Light Commercial Vehicle Division), Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance
In China, the ‘Terra’ name might be even more familiar, given that the first-generation Xterra SUV is still on sale there, albeit as a ‘Paladin.’ It would make sense if this new Terra were to replace the Paladin, which then raises the question, will this model be sold outside China?
The answer to that is ‘unsure,’ as the photographs we’re carrying here are not only from China, but feature simplified Chinese badging on the rear too. It’s suggested that this car will only make it to emerging markets, like those in Asia, Latin America, and perhaps even the Middle East, while avoiding more demanding, matured markets like ours. It’s also posited that the Terra photographed here will see motivation from a 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated motor that puts its power down to either the rear wheels or all four.
Regardless, it’s clear to see that while most ute-based SUVs can turn out rather ungainly, the Terra looks like it was meant to be. The face is distinct from the Navara and features an enormous V-Motion grille, as well as shapelier headlights. There are strong, brutish curves along the flanks, while the rear sees a smart looking pair of taillights and an overall treatment that looks not unlike the Subaru Outback.
It’s suggested that the Terra will make its debut at the 2018 Beijing motor show in April, and will join a busy segment along with the likes of the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, the Toyota Fortuner, and the Ford Everest.
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