Five Learnings from Exploring the Foothills of Mayon

For most of us, driving off-road seems like a very daunting task. Consequently, we miss out on the enjoyment and benefits of exploring the great outdoors. It usually takes a fair amount of skill and experience to enable you to intelligently navigate your vehicle through challenging terrains. Yet, I’ve recently learned that practically anyone can go off-roading. It only requires a good destination, some great company and a capable vehicle to take you where you want to go.

Nissan Philippines recently held the #GoAnywhere Terra Drive, wherein they took members of the motoring media on a drive around Camarines Sur and Albay, and through the trails at the foot of Mayon volcano. On the trail, participants had the opportunity to ride an ATV and to drive the Nissan Terra 2.5L VL 4×4 7AT. I’ve had the privilege of joining the group and aside from having a grand time, I also brought home some practical insights on the joys of off-roading.

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1. Off-roading can be a good bonding activity for the family. While you can always go riding ATVs with your buddies, it is generally not advisable to let your children ride quad bikes especially if they are not yet old enough to do so. A 4×4 SUV can accommodate 5 to 7 occupants so you can take your loved ones on an exciting nature trip over the weekend. It’s like riding a roller coaster without having to wait in line.

2. It doesn’t have to be physically demanding. Riding ATVs or dirt bikes, even, could give a good work out. Yet, if you are not into that kind of strenuous exertion, then you might want to consider a comfy SUV instead. I’ve put the Terra through its paces without breaking a sweat. Coming from a guy who perspire easily, that says a lot.

3. You don’t have to be an expert. Practically anyone can take on the trails, given the proper vehicle. You just have to pay attention to what’s in front of you and let the electronic nannies do the rest. The Terra’s Intelligent Around View Monitor (AVM) gives you a 360-degree visibility so you can navigate your way through various obstacles with relative ease.

4. Ground clearance is dope. There’s nothing as terrible as the sound of rocks scraping the underside of your vehicle. The Terra’s 225 mm ground clearance inspired confidence as we forded a few streams. Nissan even has a claim of 500 mm wading depth so crossing shallow rivers can also be done without problems.

5. Bigger is better. There is very little chance that you’ll find a gas station in the wilderness. Having enough fuel can spell the difference between discovering more scenic spots and getting stuck in the middle of nowhere without cellphone signal. It helps to have an 80-liter tank capacity so you can dare to go exploring.

There is a saying among off-road enthusiasts “You can go fast, but I can go anywhere”. Nissan has demonstrated that while the Terra can also go fast, it offers the you sense of freedom to go anywhere as well. Nissan has just started offering the Terra in Fiery Red limited edition so you can stand out anywhere you go. Check out www.nissan.ph for more information.