Nissan took the wraps off its new SUV, the Terra, this February past, before bringing the model out in China, a left-hand-drive market. We had previously reported that the Terra will also make its way to right-hand-drive markets soon. Now, details regarding the Terra's arrival have been released. Here are the five main points to keep in mind regarding the upcoming Nissan Terra:

Tried and tested platform

The Terra is based on the same ladder-frame platform as Nissan’s Navara pick-up truck – which is, incidentally, also shared with the Mercedes X-class pick-up. The model that launched in China was 4,882mm long, 1,850mm wide and 1,835mm tall, with a 2,850mm long wheelbase, while the new model (expected to be sold in RHD markets like Thailand, Singapore and Australia) is 2mm longer and 15mm wider. Nissan has tried to endow the Terra with a degree of go-anywhere capability with its 225mm of ground clearance (up by 5mm, compared to the Chinese model), and approach and departure angles of 32.3 degrees and 26.6 degrees, respectively.

Multiple engine and gearbox options

The Terra unveiled for China was powered by a new engine for that market – a 184hp, 2.4-litre, naturally aspirated petrol motor that was mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed automatic transmission; 4WD was also available as an optional extra. The Asia-spec version will be powered by a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder, turbo-diesel engine instead, making 190hp and 450Nm of torque. The rear-wheel-drive models get six-speed manual as standard, while 4WD options get a seven-speed automatic torque converter. The SUV also shares its pick-up sibling’s low-range gear ratios, a 4WD-diff lock system, hill-start assist and hill-descent assist.

Some kit missing

For the Asian markets, Nissan will offer a segment-rivalling kit on its top-spec trims. This kit includes leather seats, cruise control, dual-zone climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth, steering-mounted audio controls, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and 60:40 split, folding seats. In terms of safety kit, the top-of-the-line variants get six airbags, lane departure warning, blind spot warning, a 360-degree camera, and an auto-dimming rear view mirror.

However, the Terra does miss out on equipment that is available on some of its rivals, like a sunroof and autonomous driving aids.

Quite a few rivals

In Asian markets, Nissan’s seven-seat SUV will compete against the likes of the Toyota Fortuner, the Ford Endeavour, the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport,  the Isuzu MU-X and Skoda’s Kodiaq. Depending on its pricing, the mid-size SUV segment in Asia will be even more competitive than before.

India entry likely?

While the Terra has great potential for the Indian market, there is no word from Nissan regarding an India-entry. Nissan’s India line-up currently consists of rather slow-selling models like the Micra, Sunny and Terrano. A well-priced and well-kitted, rugged SUV could be just the shot in the arm that the Japanese brand needs in our market.

Do you think Nissan should bring the Terra to India? Please leave a comment below.