Nissan has confirmed that it will introduce an all-new SUV in India by FY2026, positioned as a direct competitor to the Hyundai Creta, Skoda Kushaq, Honda Elevate, and Maruti Grand Vitara. This upcoming SUV will be based on the CMF-B platform, shared with the next-generation Renault Duster. Production will take place at the Renault-Nissan Alliance facility in Chennai, catering to both domestic and export markets.
The new Nissan SUV is expected to arrive after the brand’s upcoming 7-seater compact MPV, launching as part of Nissan’s renewed focus on the Indian market.
Distinctive Exterior Inspired by Nissan Patrol
While the SUV will share its underpinnings with the Renault Duster, Nissan has ensured a unique design identity. The brand has drawn inspiration from its flagship Patrol SUV, incorporating a bold stance with rugged styling.
Based on concept images, the SUV features L-shaped LED DRLs connected by a chrome strip, a distinctive grille with horizontally slatted chrome bars, and a sculpted hood with pronounced creases. The front bumper design, C-shaped silver cladding, and uniquely styled alloy wheels further set it apart from the Renault Duster. However, the production version may see some design elements toned down.
Premium Cabin with Modern Features
Though interior details remain under wraps, the layout is expected to be similar to the new Duster. Nissan, however, plans to differentiate its SUV with a more premium feature set and a more streamlined variant lineup.
The top-end variants will boast a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 360-degree camera, rear AC vents, automatic climate control, and multiple drive modes. The infotainment hardware will be shared with the Duster, but Nissan will offer a customized user interface.
While the international-spec Duster includes an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), it remains unclear whether the India-spec models, including Nissan’s version, will receive this safety suite.
Powertrain: Turbo-Petrol with Automatic Gearbox
Nissan has confirmed that its upcoming SUV will be a petrol-only model, launching with a 1.3-liter turbocharged petrol engine producing 154hp and 250Nm of torque. This engine will be paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
While Nissan has not yet confirmed the availability of a manual transmission or an all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant for India, these details may emerge closer to launch.
Nameplate and Market Positioning
Unlike its predecessor, the Nissan Terrano, which struggled to leave a lasting impact in India, the new SUV will be positioned more aggressively in the compact SUV segment. It is likely to be priced above the Renault Duster, directly challenging segment leaders like the Hyundai Creta. Nissan may introduce a fresh nameplate for this SUV, moving away from the Terrano branding.
Additionally, a 7-seater version of the SUV, along with its Renault counterpart, is expected to follow by the end of FY2026. More details will be revealed in the coming months as Nissan gears up for its latest offering in the Indian market.
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