Which crossover is better: Renault Duster or Nissan Terrano

Choosing a budget crossover is a rather difficult task even nowadays. The range of inexpensive SUVs is constantly expanding and this makes the buying process difficult. At the same time, groups of leaders and outsiders are being formed on the Russian market. Taking into account consumer reviews, expert opinion, the conclusions of various authoritative auto publications, undesirable and frankly unsuccessful models are gradually eliminated.

As a result, there are several potential applicants for getting into your garage. If we talk about inexpensive, and rather even budget crossovers, then the obligatory candidates for at least consideration will be the Nissan Terrano and Renault Duster models. Many people know the history of these two machines and the close connection between them. But at the same time, the cars are not identical, and therefore their comparison will help determine who turned out to be better in the end. It will also make it easier for you to choose a crossover, help you make decisions faster and spend money correctly. The final decision is yours, and you must also draw conclusions yourself, based on the information received.

Features of cars

When asked how the Renault Duster differs from the Japanese Nissan Terrano, many will mockingly say that nothing. Allegedly, these are two identical crossovers, between which there are no differences, in addition to appearance. We can agree that the cars are similar in some respects. But they also have a lot of differences.

Renault Duster belongs to the category of front- and four-wheel drive compact budget crossovers. Moreover, this is one of the cheapest cars in its segment among European SUVs. At the same time, the car has good design solutions and equipment.

The second generation Renault Duster is considered relevant, the official presentation of which took place online. It happened in November 2017. The new generation received an updated appearance, a completely redesigned exterior, improved technical stuffing and an expanded list of equipment.

The basis for the creation of the 2nd generation Duster is the budget B0 bogie, in which the engine is located transversely, a front independent suspension with a transverse stabilizer is used, as well as hydraulic shock absorbers. At the rear, the front-wheel drive version has a semi-independent suspension with a torsion beam, while the all-wheel drive uses an independent multi-link design.

Now you can compare the presented characteristics of the Renault Duster crossover with the parameters that the Nissan Terrano can offer.

The Japanese crossover is also a representative of the budget class, it has front and all-wheel drive. The official presentation took place in Mumbai in 2013. Already at that time it was the 3rd generation of the Terrano. This is a facelifted version and a slightly more upmarket variation of the Renault Duster. It is also interesting that initially the Nissan Terrano was going to be sold only in the Indian market. But in the spring of 2014, the model still made it to Russia.

The update took place only in the spring of 2016. There were no changes in terms of appearance. But they improved the interior, modified the motors, added new options and raised the cost.

The chassis from Renault Duster was used as a platform, that is, the engine is also oriented transversely. In front of the crossovers are classic independent designs with MacPherson struts, complemented by anti-roll bars. At the rear, there is a semi-independent system with front-wheel drive, or a multi-link design with coil springs, if the drive is full.

Exterior

It is already clear that technically the cars are very similar. There is nothing surprising in this, since Nissan took the Duster as a basis, and created its own version of an inexpensive crossover around it. Good or bad, judge for yourself. But given the Duster's level of reliability and durability, as a budget employee that has been demonstrating this for several years now, this is a very smart decision on the part of Nissan.

The difference between the Nissan Terrano and Renault Duster starts with the exterior. This is where the first major differences between two potentially identical vehicles emerge.

The new generation of Duster turned out to be much more interesting and attractive than its predecessor. But the surprising thing here is that with a completely new exterior, Duster has managed to maintain a recognizable image. Judging by the sales, it was only good. Although some were expecting something more modern and bold.

The most attractive Duster looks from the front. This is due to the original optics, radiator grill, powerful bumper, beautiful hood, etc. If you look from other angles, there are no significant complaints about the car. Yes, this is not an extravagant and ultra-modern SUV. But the goals for Duster are different. This is a workhorse, the most practical car, created for not the best roads and not the most favorable operating conditions. A great car for summer cottages, fishing and hunting, transportation of building materials and other similar matters. And not for fashion shows and driving exclusively on smooth asphalt.

The exterior of the Nissan Terrano objectively looks better. And even against the background of the second generation. It is impossible to compare with the first Duster Terrano at all, but the second generation turned out to be more interesting and more modern, due to which it is significantly closer to its Japanese counterpart.

But still, Terrano looks a little ahead. The car is bright, looks richer. Although finding common features is not difficult. The connection with Duster is especially noticeable when viewed in profile. The definite similarity to the Pathfinder allows it to attract an additional audience to the Terrano who likes massive and aggressive SUVs.

It will also be interesting to look at the dimensions of the two vehicles.

Nissan Terrano has the following:

• length 4342 mm .;
• height 1668 mm .;
• width 1822 mm .;
• wheelbase 2674 mm.;
• ground clearance from 205 to 210 mm.

We add that the ground clearance can be 205 or 210 mm. depending on the drive. In the front-wheel drive version, it is smaller, and with all-wheel drive, another 5 mm is added.

Renault Duster meets the following parameters:

• length 4340 mm .;
• width 1800 mm .;
• height 1665 mm .;
• wheelbase 2674 mm.;
• ground clearance 210 mm.

And here is a noticeable equality. Terrano may look a little nicer, but this is more of a subjective opinion. Some consumers like Renault much more. Therefore, you need to look for where there is still a really noticeable difference between the Nissan Terrano and Renault Duster.

Interior and luggage compartment

After the generation change, Duster has noticeably changed not only externally, but also internally. As before, it is no longer possible to call him a full-fledged state employee, looking at the salon. Yes, this is not a reference interior at all, but everything looks much more attractive and modern.

The driver receives a multifunctional steering wheel, an easy-to-read instrument panel, and a stylish on-board computer display. The center console can house a solid 7-inch screen of the multimedia system. Plus, the salon received, albeit not the most expensive, but rather high-quality finishing materials.

The Duster salon is designed for 5 seats, and even 3 adults in the back row can comfortably fit. Only the passenger in the center will probably be slightly disturbed by the high central tunnel. At the same time, the sofa is moderately hard, comfortable, and offers a margin of space in the legs and above the head. There are 2 comfortable seats in front with the possibility of individual adjustment.

The luggage compartment of the Renault Duster in the stowed state has 467 liters with all-wheel drive and 478 liters for the front-wheel drive modification. When the rear row is folded down, the luggage space increases to 1,623 liters.

Now let's see what differences Terrano has on the background of Renault Duster. The Terrano salon was made inexpensive, but stylish and cute.Moreover, the last renovation of the interior was carried out in 2017. Informative dashboard, comfortable, slightly inflated, multi-wheel, sheer center console with the ability to accommodate a 7-inch touchscreen multimedia display on it. Finishing materials are budgetary, although some inserts allow the interior to be perceived as more expensive than it really is.

The salon is five-seater, space with sufficient headroom. The only problem is that the seats were too flat, and there is almost no lateral support in front. At the same time, the range of adjustments is extensive.

As standard, the trunk holds 408 liters for the all-wheel drive version, and immediately 475 liters for the front-wheel drive. By folding the rear row, the driver gets 1570 and 1646 liters of free space, respectively.

Comparison of components such as the passenger compartment and the luggage compartment allows you to determine the favorite. It turned out to be the new Renault Duster. Still, the restyling of Terrano affects, and not a full-fledged change of generations, like Duster. Comparing the previous generation Duster with the current Terrano, the Japanese crossover would definitely be the winner of this comparison. But now Terrano is playing the role of catch-up. Moreover, he does not cope with this role very well at the moment.

Motors and gearboxes

While it is difficult to say unequivocally which is better, the Japanese Nissan Terrano or the French Renault Duster, it is difficult. Too little information.

Therefore, it is worth moving on to the technical aspects of these cars. Namely, let's talk about the differences that are hidden in the engine compartment of the Renault Duster and Nissan Terrano. Let's take a look at engines, transmissions and their capabilities.

Nissan Terrano is presented on the Russian market with two gasoline engines.

1. The base is a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine with 114 horsepower and 156 Nm of torque. Combines with a manual transmission. Moreover, for the front-wheel drive, this is a 5MKPP, and for the full one, a six-band mechanics is available. Acceleration from zero to hundred takes from 10.9 to 12.5 seconds. The maximum speed is 167 kilometers per hour. In the combined cycle, the engine with boxes will consume 7.4-7.6 liters of fuel.
2. The top-end is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine. It produces 143 horsepower and 195 Nm of torque. A 6-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic is available here. But if with a younger engine you can choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, there is no alternative to all-wheel drive. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h takes 10.7-11.5 seconds. The maximum speed does not go beyond 180 kilometers per hour. Consumption is slightly higher, and in the combined cycle is from 7.8 to 8.7 liters of gasoline per 100 km. paths.

Despite the generation change, new engines were not offered for Renault Duster. Therefore, the line of power units remained the same.

The most interesting thing here is that Nissan took not only the platform, but also borrowed the engines from the Duster. As a result, the two ICEs presented above are also installed on Renault Duster. The dynamics, top speed and acceleration of the cars are almost identical, given the almost identical dimensions and weight of the crossovers.

But Renault Duster has one important trump card. And it is called a diesel engine. The Terrano does not have a diesel version. At least for the Russian market. And Duster, in addition to two gasoline internal combustion engines, also offers a 1.5-liter engine with a capacity of 90 and 110 horsepower, which runs on a diesel engine. The engine output depends on the degree of boost. The 90-horsepower version has 200 Nm of torque, while the 110-horsepower version has increased torque to 240 Nm.

For diesel engines, a manual transmission and a 6-band preselective robot are offered. Moreover, you can choose between front and four-wheel drive.

Four-wheel drive in combination with a 110 horsepower diesel engine allows you to get a very high-spirited and high-torque car. On such a Duster, you can pull heavy trailers behind you, go into real off-road conditions.

Everyone can decide for himself what is better for him to take - Renault Duster or Nissan Terrano. It makes no sense to compare petrol versions as they are identical. At the same time, the Frenchman offers a diesel and very reliable engine, to which the Japanese are not able to oppose anything.

If we talk about the differences in terms of engines, gearboxes and their capabilities, then it would be more correct to put an equal sign between Renault Duster and Nissan Terrano. But still, I want to give preference to Duster precisely due to the diesel engine.

Cross-country ability and handling

Next is a comparison between the budget crossovers Nissan Terrano and Renault Duster in terms of their handling and cross-country ability.

Both machines have identical technical stuffing. In both cases, cars are not adapted for active and fast driving, as evidenced by low-power motors. Crossovers drive about the same. At high speeds, there is no need to talk about stability, it is scary to enter sharp turns at speed in places. With its 100-130 kilometers per hour, no complaints arise. By accelerating harder, the driver is unlikely to feel comfortable.

In the city, crossovers behave well, confidently maneuvering. The steering wheel is obedient, although there is sometimes a lack of responsiveness. But for state employees, and even for SUVs, this is forgivable. It is difficult to give two cars a rating higher than 3.5 points for handling.

As for cross-country ability, everything is a little more interesting here. Both cars have the same all-wheel drive. But the Terrano received lower overhangs, which is why the Japanese do not pass the difficult sections as confidently as the French. But the difference is insignificant. Both cars feel great in off-road conditions, country roads and unpaved surfaces. These are real workhorses that fully justify their name.

Although these are compact and budget SUVs, both vehicles receive 5 points for off-road capability. They have virtually no competitors in their class.

Security and electronic assistants

It is not necessary to say that Renault Duster or Nissan Terrano are equipped with a wide range of all kinds of equipment aimed at improving the safety of the driver, passengers and pedestrians. If we compare the versions, then there is still a slight advantage for Duster.

The thing is that the Terrano has only 2 airbags and ABS in the base. But the updated Duster will have front and rear airbags, curtain airbags, and a kit consisting of ESP, ABS and EBD from the start.

So the French crossover wins here again. Terrano still grazes the hind.

Repair and service

A big plus of these two machines is that, technically, they will have to be serviced and repaired quite rarely. Cars simply do not break down with adequate use. The resource of the motors allows them to travel 200-300 thousand kilometers before the first more or less significant malfunctions appear. The boxes also serve 150 thousand kilometers or more.

In terms of service, the French carmaker offers a more affordable car. This becomes obvious when you look at the price tags of cars, which you will learn about a little later. Nissan is a more elite brand, and the Terrano name has a history, unlike Duster. That is, here we have a clear example of how a name makes a car more expensive.

The difference is not huge, but still, Duster owners get another reason to realize that they have made the right choice.

To summarize, in the confrontation between Duster VS Terrano, a representative of the French automaker wins in the next round.

Cost and configuration

The current version of Terrano is offered in 4 trim levels. Basic costs from 980 thousand rubles. Moreover, it will include:

• 2 airbags;
• air conditioning;
• power steering;
• ABS;
• power windows for the front doors;
• steering column height adjustment;
• audio system for 4 speakers;
• light-alloy wheels (steel used to be), etc.

Top versions cannot be purchased for less than 1.27 million rubles. But you can get 4 pillows, ABS, EBD and ESP, leather interior, rear parking sensors, heated front seats, a multimedia system and much more.

Now feel the difference. At the same time, the basic equipment costs from 700 thousand rubles.The top-end configuration, excluding some additional options that are not included in the standard kits, will cost 1.1 million rubles.

From the start, Duster gets:

• ABS, EBD and ESP;
• front airbags;
• side curtain airbags;
• fabric salon;
• audio system for 4 speakers;
• front power windows, etc.

The Duster has a little equipment, but richer in the basic configuration. When the generation changed, the French added a new multimedia complex, a system for starting the engine from a button, tracking systems for blind spots, light and rain sensors, panoramic cameras, climate control and much more. If all this can be taken for 1.1-1.2 million rubles, then some simply do not see the point in considering Terrano as an alternative option.

Who to give preference to

Now it's worth taking stock and deciding what is better to choose between Nissan Terrano and Renault Duster.

Initially, the comparison began as a study of two approximately identical cars, one of which is positioned as more elite and expensive. But as we studied all the parameters and characteristics, it became clear that the Terrano had no expected advantage over the Duster.

Moreover, many consumers don't even have doubts about what to buy when Renault Duster and Nissan Terrano are offered to choose from. They go to buy Duster without hesitation. And this is a completely obvious, justified and reasonable decision. Duster is cheaper in price, after the generation change it does not outwardly concede to a conditional competitor, it received a more modern and comfortable interior. The similarities in technical characteristics still bring Duster forward, since a diesel power unit with excellent parameters is additionally offered for it.

So it turns out that overpaying for Terrano, having the opportunity to buy a cheaper one, and in most parameters surpasses its Japanese clone, Duster.

How objective and fair such conclusions are is up to you. But Nissan objectively needs to rather prepare a new generation, or carry out a deep restyling in order to at least equal the capabilities of the current generation of Duster. Plus, you should probably think about changing the pricing policy.

A clear indicator that Terrano is inferior to Duster is sales statistics. The Duster has been a bestseller in recent years, while the number of Terrano models sold is depressing.