Nissan X-Terra SE 4WD: X marks the spot

Nissan X-Terra SE 4WD: X marks the spot

Launched for 2021 in Middle East markets as a rugged and utilitarian mid-size SUV carrying the respected X-Terra nameplate after a 6-year hiatus, Nissan's impressive gambit back into the off-road ready midsize SUV segment has otherwise been known as the Terra in eastern Asian market since 2018. 

Refreshingly unpretentious and authentic, yet well equipped and comfortable, the X-Terra however features slight aesthetic alterations and a single driveline option. Larger than its ostensible predecessor, it is however closer in size, concept and engineering to the previous generation Nissan Pathfinder SUV.

 

Ruggedly authentic

 

With body-on-chassis construction and longitudinal driveline, it is something of an off-road oriented alternative to the slightly larger, roomier and road-oriented modern transverse platform unibody Pathfinder. Alternatively viewed as a "junior“ alternative to Nissan's storied full-size Patrol SUV, the new X-Terra is more closely related to Nissan's acclaimed Nissan Navara pick-up truck, albeit modified for SUV service. High-riding, with superb 243mm ground clearance, thee X-Terra competes with the truck-based Toyota Fortuner and Mitsubishi Montero Sport.

Similar to European market Navara models, the X-Terra retains its rugged live-axle rear, but ditches the more commercial vehicle leaf spring rear suspension for a more sophisticated multi-link coil sprung live-axle set-up, with improved ride comfort and handling