By Steve Laser
A new Nissan crossover SUV is making its debut with bold styling, a manual transmission, turbocharged engines, high-tech features, and right-hand drive. Nissan calls it “TEKTON” and it’s going on sale in India.
The new Nissan TEKTON is developed and built in India, in alliance with Renault, on the CMF-B platform. Nissan says it plans to export TEKTON to 50 global markets, although it’s not coming to North America, where Nissan already offers a full lineup of crossovers.
TEKTON wears bold front styling that brings to mind larger Nissan SUVs, including the Patrol (also called Armada). Powertrain choices include a 1.0-liter turbo T160 3-cylinder and 1.3-liter T180 4-cylinder turbo gas engines. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard, while the T180 offers an available 6-speed automatic DCT transmission with E-shifter.
While it looks similar from some angles to its cousin the Renault Duster, Nissan gives TEKTON distinctive styling elements, including a wide chrome accent grille, C-shaped LED headlights and taillights, and a “Majestic Himalayan Crest” to celebrate the spirit of adventure.
TEKTON models include Visia, Visia+, Acenta, N-Connecta, Tekna, and Tekna+. Top interior trims have premium leatherette, soft-touch finishes, and bespoke stitching. Tri-tones blend colors like beige, burgundy, and rose gold accents. Active comfort power and ventilated front seats with adjustable boomerang headrests are also available.
The dual-screen Digital Command Center includes a 10.25-inch HD Digital Cockpit for the driver and a center 10.1-inch Tek-Link HD infotainment system on select models. Comfort and convenience features include an available panoramic sunroof, dual-zone air conditioning, 48-color mood lighting, and surround sound system.
Additional features, with availability that varies by model, include wireless Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®, Google built-in with Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Play, Car to Home, and OTA updates, and the MyNISSAN App with connectivity features.
Advanced driver assist systems on top models include Blind Spot Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Front and Rear Parking Assist, and 3D Intelligent Around View Monitor.
Note: Features and specifications for India market TEKTON models are subject to change without notice.
News sources and photos courtesy of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., and Nissan Motor India Pvt. Ltd.
Story (commentary) 2026 CarNichiWa.com