2026 Nissan Tekton Review: The “Baby Patrol” That Could Shake Up India’s Mid-Size SUV Segment

Nissan is no longer playing it safe in India.

After stabilising its presence with the Magnite, the Japanese brand is now preparing a serious comeback move — the Nissan Tekton, an all-new mid-size SUV designed specifically for Indian roads and Indian buyers.

Officially confirmed for India, the Tekton will be revealed in February 2026 and launched by mid-2026. Built on the modern CMF-B platform, it will sit right in the heart of the most competitive SUV segment in the country — dominated by the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.

But here’s the twist:
The Tekton is being positioned as a “Baby Nissan Patrol” — rugged, premium, tech-loaded, and powerful.

So the big question is:
Can Nissan finally disrupt the Creta–Seltos dominance?

Let’s break it down in detail.

What Is the Nissan Tekton?

The Nissan Tekton is an all-new mid-size SUV (≈4.3m) developed as part of Nissan’s India revival strategy.

Key highlights:

All-new nameplate
Petrol-only lineup (initially)
Built in India, for India & exports
Shared architecture with next-gen Renault Duster

It will be positioned above the Magnite and directly challenge segment leaders.

Platform & Engineering: CMF-B Architecture

The Tekton is built on the CMF-B modular platform, shared with:

Next-generation Renault Duster
Global Nissan SUVs

This platform allows:

Better ride comfort
Improved safety
Hybrid compatibility
Flexible body styles (future 7-seater)

It’s a major upgrade over older Nissan platforms.

Exterior Design: The “Baby Patrol” Effect

The Tekton’s design is its biggest weapon.

Overall Styling Philosophy

Inspired by the flagship Nissan Patrol
Upright, muscular proportions
Strong road presence
Premium yet rugged

This SUV looks far more imposing than many rivals.

Front Design

Bold, upright grille
C-shaped LED DRLs
Squared-off LED headlamps
High bonnet line

It gives the Tekton a commanding face, something Indian buyers love.

Signature Detail: Himalayan Motif

One of the most unique design elements:

“Himalayan mountain range” motif
Integrated into a Double-C accent on front doors
India-specific design touch

This adds emotional and cultural appeal.

Rear Design

Full-width connected LED tail lamps
C-shaped lighting signature
Large “TEKTON” lettering across tailgate
Chunky bumper design

The rear looks wide, solid, and premium.

Dimensions (Expected)

Length: ~4,300 mm
Wheelbase: ~2,600 mm
Ground clearance: ~200 mm

This puts it perfectly between compact and full-size SUVs.

Interior: Premium, Modern & Tech-Focused

The Tekton’s cabin aims to feel one segment above its rivals.

Dashboard & Theme

Multi-layered dashboard
Three-tone colour scheme
Copper & gloss black accents

The design is expected to feel European and premium, unlike the plain interiors of older Nissans.

Infotainment & Displays

10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
7-inch fully digital instrument cluster

The layout focuses on clarity and modern visuals.

Comfort & Convenience Features

Higher variants are expected to offer:

Panoramic sunroof
Automatic climate control
Ventilated front seats
Ambient lighting
Wireless phone charging

These features are critical in this segment — and Nissan knows it.

Engine & Performance: Petrol Power with Future Hybrid Promise

Nissan will launch the Tekton with multiple petrol-only engines.

1.3-Litre Turbo-Petrol (Flagship)

Power: ~154 hp
Torque: ~250 Nm

This engine is already proven globally and offers:

Strong acceleration
Excellent highway performance
Smooth power delivery

This will be the driver’s choice variant.

1.0-Litre Turbo-Petrol (Entry Option)

Derived from Magnite’s engine
Retuned for heavier body
Focus on fuel efficiency

Ideal for urban users who want Tekton’s design at a lower price.

Hybrid Powertrain (Future Plan)

Strong-hybrid under evaluation
Possibly 1.6-litre setup
Combined output: ~149 hp
Expected launch: 2027

This could be a game-changer, especially against hybrid rivals like Grand Vitara.

Transmission Options

6-speed manual
CVT automatic
7-speed DCT (likely for 1.3 turbo)

This wide range gives Nissan a big advantage.

Ride, Handling & Driving Expectation

Thanks to the CMF-B platform:

Better suspension tuning
Improved high-speed stability
Comfortable ride quality

It’s expected to balance city comfort and highway confidence well.

Safety: Nissan Aims to Go Big

Safety is a core focus for the Tekton.

Standard Safety Features

6 airbags (standard)
ABS with EBD
Electronic Stability Control
Traction Control

Advanced Safety (Top Variants)

360-degree camera
Level 2 ADAS, including:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keep assist
- Automatic emergency braking
- Forward collision warning

This places Tekton among the most tech-advanced SUVs in the segment.

Seating & Space

Initially:

5-seater configuration

Planned:

7-seater Tekton derivative in 2027

Cabin space is expected to be generous thanks to the long wheelbase.

Manufacturing & Localization

Manufactured at Renault–Nissan Chennai plant
High localisation
Export-focused model

This helps:

Keep prices competitive
Improve long-term support

Expected Price & Rivals

Expected Price (Ex-Showroom)

₹10.5 lakh – ₹19 lakh

Main Rivals

Hyundai Creta
Kia Seltos
Maruti Grand Vitara
Toyota Hyryder
Honda Elevate

The Tekton will stand out with:

Stronger design
More tech
Better safety focus

Who Should Consider the Nissan Tekton?

Buy it if you:

Want bold SUV styling
Prefer petrol performance
Value safety & ADAS
Want something different from Creta/Seltos

Wait if you:

Want diesel
Prefer established resale value immediately

Final Verdict: Nissan’s Most Important SUV Yet

The 2026 Nissan Tekton is not just another SUV — it’s Nissan’s statement of intent for India.

With:

Patrol-inspired design
Powerful turbo engines
Premium interiors
Advanced safety tech

…it has everything needed to become a serious Creta challenger.

If Nissan prices it aggressively and backs it with strong service support, the Tekton could be the turning point for the brand in India.