Nissan Tekton SUV India: Patrol-Inspired Design, Turbo Engine and 2026 Launch
Nissan is gearing up to make a strong comeback in the Indian SUV market with its all-new Tekton SUV, which was recently spotted testing on Indian highways. The upcoming mid-size SUV is expected to arrive in mid-2026 and will play a key role in Nissan’s renewed strategy for India. The test mule seen on the highway confirms that Nissan has already begun road trials in India, and the prototype hints at a modern yet rugged SUV designed specifically for Indian roads and conditions. The Tekton aims to take on popular models like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Toyota Hyryder, combining Japanese reliability with bold styling and advanced technology.
Nissan Tekton what to expect?
The new Nissan Tekton will be based on the CMF-B modular platform, developed under the Renault-Nissan alliance. This is the same architecture that underpins the next-generation Renault Duster, indicating shared mechanical components and cost efficiencies. This global platform will allow Nissan to engineer the Tekton for multiple markets, but production for India will happen locally at the company’s Chennai manufacturing facility. This aligns with Nissan’s “One Car, One World” philosophy, under which vehicles are designed globally but localized for affordability and suitability to domestic conditions. The Tekton is therefore not just another global model — it’s a made-in-India SUV with export potential.
In terms of design, the Nissan Tekton stands out with its bold and muscular stance inspired by Nissan’s flagship Patrol SUV. Spy shots and teaser images show a large signature V-Motion front grille, sleek LED headlamps, and C-shaped LED daytime running lights that enhance its aggressive look. The rear is expected to feature connected LED tail lamps with a light bar, a sculpted boot, and chunky bumpers that add to its road presence. The SUV’s side profile displays pronounced wheel arches, thick body cladding, roof rails, and muscular proportions, all of which give it a rugged appeal. The styling seems modern yet practical, a balance that should appeal to Indian buyers who prefer a bold and tough-looking SUV.
Inside, the Tekton is likely to get a premium cabin layout with layered dashboard design and soft-touch materials. Nissan is expected to offer a large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and connected car technology. The SUV could also feature a panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, ambient lighting, and high-quality upholstery. Safety is another area Nissan is focusing on — multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and possibly ADAS Level 2 driver assistance features are expected to be offered in top variants.
Under the hood, the Nissan Tekton is likely to use the tried-and-tested 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine shared with Renault models. This engine produces around 154 PS of power and 250 Nm of torque, paired with both manual and CVT automatic transmission options. The SUV is expected to deliver strong performance and highway stability, as seen during recent tests where it maintained speeds of over 100–120 km/h effortlessly. Additionally, Nissan may introduce a mild-hybrid variant to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. A diesel engine option is unlikely since the brand is moving towards cleaner and more efficient petrol-hybrid setups.
Nissan plans to position the Tekton competitively in the ₹10.5 lakh to ₹18 lakh (ex-showroom) range, depending on variants and powertrain choices. This pricing will put it directly against the segment leaders, offering customers an alternative with distinctive Japanese design, robust build quality, and modern technology. The launch of the Tekton marks an important milestone for Nissan India, which has been relatively quiet in recent years apart from models like the Magnite.
With its attractive design, feature-loaded cabin, and proven mechanicals, the Nissan Tekton is shaping up to be a strong contender in the highly competitive compact SUV segment. Its upcoming launch in 2026 will not only expand Nissan’s Indian portfolio but also signal the company’s long-term commitment to the market. The Tekton combines global engineering expertise with local manufacturing, promising to deliver a blend of style, performance, and value that Indian SUV buyers have been waiting for.
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