Nissan Terrano SUV Spied Testing Ahead of 2027 Launch
Spy shots reveal the production version of the Nissan Terrano, a ladder-frame SUV set for a China launch in early 2027.
The upcoming Nissan Terrano SUV has been spotted during road tests, revealing the production design ahead of its scheduled launch in early 2027. The SUV will be manufactured in China through Nissan's joint venture with Dongfeng.
Spy photos show the test mule closely follows the Terrano PHEV concept unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show in April. The production version retains an upright, boxy silhouette with sharp panelling and a clamshell bonnet. Distinctive pixel-style headlights and a narrow grille are paired with a large bumper featuring a robust skid plate.
Key exterior elements include flared wheel arches, body cladding, and blacked-out pillars for a floating roof effect. The test vehicle sports more sober alloy wheels than the concept and lacks some of its hardcore off-road gear, like bonnet-mounted fog lamps and a full-length roof rack. These items may be offered as accessories later.
Premium Interior Details
The cabin features a dual-tone tan and grey theme with leatherette upholstery on the seats, doors, and dashboard. A flat centre console houses an electronic gear selector, a rotary terrain mode dial, and toggle switches. The SUV is equipped with a digital instrument cluster and a large central touchscreen.
Other interior amenities include a wireless charging pad, a wide padded armrest, and oblong-shaped AC vents. The report states the vehicle is expected to come with features like a 360-degree camera system.
Platform and Powertrain Strategy
Nissan Terrano uses a ladder-frame chassis derived from the Nissan Frontier Pro and Dongfeng Z9 pickup platform. Its chassis, core mechanical systems, and safety equipment were developed by Nissan, while Dongfeng provided the hybrid powertrain and other technology systems. Mitsubishi developed the engine for the pure petrol version.
While the Chinese market will focus on the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant, emerging markets and the Middle East may get both internal combustion engine (ICE) and PHEV versions. The collaboration with Dongfeng aims to reduce development time and costs.
Potential India Launch Plans
Nissan is reportedly evaluating the Terrano, particularly the PHEV version, for the Indian market. According to Autocar India, the SUV is a leading candidate among products from the Nissan-Dongfeng joint venture being considered for India.
If introduced, the Terrano would compete in the premium ladder-frame SUV segment dominated by the Toyota Fortuner. A potential ex-showroom price of around Rs 40 lakh is being considered. Local manufacturing would be key for competitive pricing.
Nissan retains a production capacity reservation at its former joint-venture plant in Chennai, which currently has significant spare capacity. The Terrano could become part of Nissan's broader revival plan in India. However, the company has not confirmed the launch, and the model is still under evaluation. If plans proceed, the first Dongfeng-derived Nissan product could reportedly arrive in India within two years.
Global Export Markets
Following its China launch, the Nissan Terrano will be exported to markets including the Middle East, ASEAN nations, and Latin America. The SUV's design was created by Nissan's China design centre with guidance from its Japanese headquarters.
