Nissan introduces a new compact crossover Tekton, built in India
Nissan has officially introduced the new subcompact crossover Tekton, which will be produced in India but is intended for sale in more than 50 countries worldwide. The model’s name has Greek origins and translates as “artisan” or “builder.” The car’s appearance may seem familiar, as it is a “brother” to the local Renault Duster, which in turn is an adapted version of the Dacia model.
According to Nissan representatives, the Tekton design is inspired by the Patrol (Armada) model, combining a rugged off-road look, impressive proportions, and recognizable brand features. However, in practice, the car looks more modest than in the promotional descriptions.
Design and exterior features
The Tekton retains the basic silhouette of the Duster but features a redesigned front end borrowed from the latest Patrol (Armada). The headlights transition into vertical air intakes on the bumper, framing aluminum-look inserts on the skid plate. A large chrome-accented grille dominates the front.
The car’s profile largely mirrors the Renault and Dacia, but the Nissan is distinguished by different side “gill” vents and 18-inch alloy wheels. At the rear, changes are limited to the LED taillight graphics and a redesigned rear bumper with a simulated aluminum trim.
Dimensions and interior space
The car’s dimensions match its class: length is 4,348 mm, wheelbase is 2,657 mm, ground clearance is 212 mm, and cargo volume behind the rear seats is 518 liters.
Interior with unusual color schemes
Inside, the dashboard layout is similar to the Renault Duster, but the Tekton receives unique trim and color options. The flagship version offers a white-and-purple upholstery with copper accents, creating a rather unusual combination. The digital setup consists of a 10.1-inch multimedia display and a 10.25-inch instrument cluster mounted on a single base.
Higher trims include a panoramic roof, wireless charging, a power tailgate, and ventilated seats. Six airbags are standard across all versions, and top trims receive Level 2 ADAS systems.
Engines and transmission
The Nissan Tekton is built on the CMF-B platform, widely used within the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance. The engine lineup includes two turbocharged gasoline units without electrification; the hybrid version from Renault is not available.
Like its Renault “twin,” the Tekton has only front-wheel drive, although the European Dacia Duster can be equipped with all-wheel drive.
The base turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine produces 100 hp and is available only with a 6-speed manual transmission. The more powerful 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine develops 161 hp and can be paired with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Price and availability
The price of the Tekton is impressive by Western standards. The base Visia version with a 1.0-liter engine and manual transmission starts at 10.49 lakh rupees (about $11,000), matching the price of the Renault Duster. The flagship Tekna+ version with the more powerful 1.3-liter engine and automatic transmission costs 18.59 lakh rupees (about $19,500).
Developed and manufactured at the Chennai plant together with partner Renault, the Tekton will initially go on sale in India and then be exported to 50 markets in the Middle East and Africa. In the domestic market, it will compete against the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, and VW Taigun.
The Nissan Tekton is a striking example of the alliance’s global strategy, where one platform is used to create different models for different markets. The lack of all-wheel drive and a hybrid version may limit its appeal to some buyers, but the aggressive pricing and modern design will likely make it a popular choice in developing markets. Interestingly, Nissan decided not to offer the hybrid version that Renault has, which may indicate a desire to maintain a lower price and simpler construction for the target markets.