Nissan Tekton SUV Launch. (Image: Internet)
New Delhi: Nissan Motor India is set to strengthen its presence in the competitive mid-size SUV segment with the launch of the Tekton on July 9. The upcoming SUV will become a key model in the company's renewed product strategy and compete with some of India's most popular SUVs, including the Renault Duster, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun.
The Tekton will mark Nissan's return to the mid-size SUV category after the discontinuation of the Kicks in 2023. Over the past few years, the Magnite has remained the company's primary sales driver, while the recently introduced Gravite MPV has expanded its portfolio.
Although the Tekton shares its foundation with the Renault Duster under the Renault-Nissan Alliance, Nissan has developed a distinct design identity for the SUV.
Test vehicles suggest the model could feature a wider Nissan-style front grille, slim LED daytime running lights linked by a full-width light bar, redesigned bumpers and premium exterior detailing. The SUV is also expected to have connected LED tail lamps and larger alloy wheels on higher variants, giving it a bold road presence inspired by Nissan's global SUV design language.
Inside, the Tekton is expected to share some elements with the Duster while receiving Nissan-specific design updates, including unique upholstery and dashboard finishes.
Expected features include a digital instrument cluster, flat-bottom steering wheel, touchscreen infotainment system with Google built-in services, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, powered driver seat, dual-zone climate control, powered tailgate, 360-degree camera, wireless smartphone connectivity and Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
The Nissan Tekton is expected to use turbo-petrol engine options similar to the India-spec Renault Duster. The entry-level version could get a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing around 100 bhp, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox.
Higher variants are expected to feature a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine generating around 163 bhp and 280 Nm of torque, with manual and dual-clutch automatic transmission options.
Nissan is expected to price the Tekton competitively, with an estimated starting price of around ₹10 lakh (ex-showroom). Positioned as a premium yet affordable SUV, the model will play an important role in Nissan India's attempt to regain ground in one of the country's fastest-growing automotive segments.
