Nissan Motor India has postponed the highly anticipated launch of its new mid-size SUV, the Nissan Tekton. The vehicle, designed to re-enter Nissan into a crucial market segment, was originally scheduled for an unveiling on February 4, 2026, in India. Despite the delay, prototypes of the Tekton continue extensive road testing across the country, most recently spotted in Bengaluru, adorned with heavy camouflage.This ongoing testing suggests Nissan is fine-tuning the vehicle before its official debut, which now lacks a confirmed date.[thedailyjagran+5]
Camouflaged Testing Continues
Recent spy photographs captured the Nissan Tekton test mule undergoing evaluation near Electronic City in Bengaluru.The prototypes wear full-body camouflage, obscuring most of the design details.However, visible elements hint at a premium offering. The spied vehicles featured large 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in wide tires, indicating a top-spec variant.These details suggest a robust road presence for the upcoming SUV.The extensive camouflage often means automakers are refining final paint schemes, badge placements, and exterior finishes before a public reveal.[thedailyjagran+12]
Launch Delay and Market Importance
Nissan initially planned to unveil the Tekton on February 4, 2026, but the event was postponed for undisclosed reasons.As of now, Nissan has not announced a revised launch timeline.This delay follows another recent postponement for Nissan's Gravite MPV, which moved its launch to February 17.The Tekton is a critical product for Nissan, marking its return to India's competitive 4.2-meter to 4.4-meter SUV segment.Nissan exited this category in 2023 after discontinuing the Kicks model.The company sees the Tekton as a significant bet for the Indian market, aiming to establish a strong foothold in a rapidly growing segment.[thedailyjagran+10]
Duster Platform and Distinct Design Elements
The Nissan Tekton shares its underlying platform and mechanical components with the next-generation Renault Duster.Both SUVs are part of the Renault-Nissan CMF-B architecture, a versatile platform also used in several European models.Despite sharing a foundation, Nissan intends to give the Tekton a distinct visual identity and cabin theme.Official teasers confirm the Tekton will draw design inspiration from the Nissan Patrol, a full-size premium off-road SUV.The front fascia is expected to feature a unique large grille with C-shaped design elements and character lines.Spy shots suggest a cleaner, more sophisticated front design with connected LED daytime running lights, setting it apart from its Renault counterpart.The Tekton may also feature less body cladding, giving it a more urban and premium appearance.Headlights and taillights will likely be unique to the Tekton, though some elements like fog lamps might be shared.[indiacarnews+19]
Expected Features and Powertrain Options
Inside the cabin, the Nissan Tekton aims for a modern and tech-rich experience.Spy images have revealed a flat-bottom steering wheel with integrated controls and a digital instrument cluster.The interior is expected to feature a distinct dashboard design, unique color schemes, and bespoke textures to differentiate it from the Duster.Key anticipated features include a 10.25-inch TFT instrument cluster, a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a panoramic sunroof.Comfort features are likely to include front ventilated seats and dual-zone climate control.For convenience and safety, the Tekton is expected to offer a wireless phone charger, an Arkamys 3D sound system, 360-degree cameras, and Level 2 Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS).[carlelo+16]
Under the hood, the Tekton is expected to borrow engine options from the new Duster.This includes a 1.0-liter turbo petrol engine, which delivers 100 horsepower and 160 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox.A more powerful 1.3-liter turbo petrol unit is also expected, producing 163 horsepower and 280 Nm, available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed DCT transmission.Additionally, a strong hybrid powertrain is anticipated, similar to what Renault has confirmed for the Duster.This hybrid system would combine a 109 horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with a 49 horsepower electric motor and a 20 horsepower hybrid starter generator, supported by a 1.4kWh battery.The SUV is also rumored to offer a large boot space of up to 700 liters and a high ground clearance of around 212 mm.Early reports also project a fuel efficiency rating of roughly 17-19 km/l for a potential 1.5-liter petrol engine variant.[indiacarnews+10]
Market Competition
Once launched, the Nissan Tekton will enter a highly competitive mid-size SUV segment in India.It will face rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Honda Elevate, MG Astor, Volkswagen Taigun, and Skoda Kushaq.Analysts estimate a potential price range of ₹8.5 to ₹10 lakh for the Tekton, placing it squarely against these popular models. TheTekton is part of Nissan Motor India's "One Car, One World" strategy, aiming to produce models in India for both domestic sales and export.[rushlane+4]
The continued testing of the Nissan Tekton under camouflage highlights the brand's commitment to refining this crucial new SUV before its eventual market release, signaling a determined effort to capture a significant share of India's booming mid-size SUV segment.[autoblog]
