Here’s our wishlist for the updated Nissan Terra

Ahh, the Nissan Terra. The popular Navara-based midsize SUV which quickly grew to fame after its launch, and for all the good reasons. When it was launched, AutoPH was just starting and had about a hundred subscribers on YouTube. We remember even being the first to upload a walkaround video of it though it wasn’t exactly detailed and had no commentary. It had everything you needed from class-leading technology to a comfortable ride, and a great powertrain. Despite that, it isn’t perfect still.

We’ve featured the Nissan Terra a couple of times on our YouTube channel and even drove it a couple of times as well, enough for us to see what we really liked about it and what we didn’t. Nissan already hinted a few months ago that they’ll be introducing some updates to the popular SUV through a teaser showcasing their upcoming launches. The upcoming facelifted model has also been spied testing on public roads. So here are some things that we’re hoping to see on the updated Nissan Terra once it’s revealed.

Quieter Engine

The 2.5-liter YD25DDTi turbodiesel powertrain on the Terra is a great engine. Tried and tested on the Navara as well but if there’s one thing, it’s definitely loud when accelerating. While I personally am used to loud accelerations thanks to the 23 year old SUV with a V6 engine I frequently drive, many people will definitely appreciate less engine noise coming into the cabin. If Toyota, Ford and Mitsubishi can do it, so can Nissan.

Lighter Steering

There’s no doubt that driving the Nissan Terra is a great experience. I’d rank it the third best in its segment after the Ford Everest and SsangYong Rexton, though it’s kinda in a tie with the Mitsubishi Montero Sport. The only drawback to the driving experience is its slightly heavier steering. Most SUV buyers really just stay in the city and will definitely appreciate a little lighter steering to lessen the effort especially when Waze brings you through the tightest streets in Metro Manila.

More upscale, modern dashboard

We’ve recommended the Nissan Terra to a handful of friends and family but there is one thing they always see as a downside, its dashboard design. It’s rare for carmakers to change the whole dash design in a mid-cycle refresh but some do it so Nissan can too. While the Terra itself was new for 2018, the dashboard design dates back to 2014 when the current generation Navara which it’s based on was introduced. Everything is exactly the same from the steering wheel, gauges, climate controls, and center console. Nissan Philippines did upgrade the infotainment system for 2019 but it didn’t change the fact that the dashboard still looks dated. We also hope to see improved interior materials as only the center and door armrests are covered in soft-touch leather. The rest of the dashboard and door panels are all hard-touch plastics.

More USB ports

Speaking of a more modern and more upscale dashboard, we also hope Nissan could add more USB ports in the updated Terra. These days most vehicles have at least two in front and another two in the back. The Terra only has one. On the other hand, it has three (3) 12-volt power outlets for the front passengers, not many people use those anymore. Perhaps a wireless charging pad would also be great.

More up-to-date features

When the Nissan Terra was launched, it was somehow ahead of its class in terms of its tech especially with Nissan Intelligent Mobility. It’s the only one among the mainstream brands to offer a full 360-degree around-view monitor. It’s been 2 years now and compared to its competition, it definitely lacks a power rear tailgate which should make it more convenient to load items especially for smaller passengers. We’d also love to see a panoramic sunroof just like in the Ford Everest. This is just a personal preference but we love sunroofs even if most Filipinos dislike it because of the supposed heat it brings into the cabin. 

Having the Nissan ProPILOT Assist suite of driver-assist features would also be great to bring more safety and convenience to the driving experience. Oh and an electronic parking brake with auto hold would also be great. This would make driving in heavy stop-and-go city traffic easier and less tiring. Plus it would require the Terra to get rear disc brakes instead of drums which will improve stopping power.

Well that’s all we can think of as of now. So far Nissan has not yet divulged any other information about the upcoming updates for the Nissan Terra and its Navara sibling. We’re keeping our hopes up though that it does come with some of the features we mentioned above. What do you want to see in the upcoming Nissan Terra?