when the Japanese launched the SUV

Faced with the success of the Chevrolet Blazer, Ford Bronco II and Jeep Cherokee, the Japanese decided in the early 1980s to enter this new market of so-called recreational vehicles.

4x4s that can be used every day on the road, and are capable of replacing the typical American family station wagon. Toyota successfully launched its 4Runner, Honda responds with its Passport and Nissan must respond.

The SUV family

Terrano, also called Pathfinder, was introduced in May 1986 in the original form of a large two-door station wagon. It was released for the 1987 model year in the United States and later in Europe and the rest of the world.

Built on a ladder-type chassis, the Terrano has the looks of an SUV with the underpinnings of a true 4×4 crossover.

Available depending on the market with two- or four-wheel drive, it has a large 2.4L four-cylinder engine. In some countries, this generation also has a 2.7L I4 diesel engine.

Royal equipment

In the Japanese market, this new player is positioned as a luxury vehicle, marketed as a leisure and outdoor activity vehicle.

To match this marketing approach, a heavy catalog of options and accessories is available.

Automatic air conditioning, central locking, power windows and seats, this Terrano lacks nothing. He will be able to take over the world.

International car

Produced in Japan at the Fukuoka factory, the Terrano will be assembled in other latitudes, starting with Malaysia and Indonesia. It usually arrives in Europe and France, in support of the large Patrol 4×4.

From the start, he was entered in the Paris-Dakar by the Nissan dealer from Saint-lô in Manche, André Dessoude.

Backed first by importer Richard Nissan, the Terrano’s entry will open the door to a massive rally for Nissan. A success that would last for three decades, Team Dessoude became the official Japanese team in Dakar.

Five doors for more versatility

To build on the success of this first Terrano, Nissan decided to add two rear doors in October 1989. The 1990 model year will also be a facelift, with a revised grille, and many changes to the interior layout.

Production ceased in 1995 but the Terrano name survived.

If it will be replaced in the United States by the same model, under the name Pathfinder, the second generation of Terrano will be available in France. Terrano II, developed in collaboration with Ford, appeared in 1993.