Nissan has confirmed that its new SUV based on the CMF-B platform used for the Renault Duster will make its debut in India by FY2026, taking on Hyundai Creta, Skoda Kushaq, Honda Elevate and Maruti Grand Vitara when it arrives and may follow Nissan’s 7-seat compact MPV to market. Both vehicles will be produced simultaneously at Renault-Nissan Alliance Factory Chennai to meet both domestic sales as well as export markets.
Nissan SUV exterior design
Designs Inspired by Nissan Patrol
Nissan has released images depicting their new SUV concept which shares its rugged silhouette with that of Renault Duster but stands out with unique design elements, like L-shaped LED DRLs connected by chrome strips connected with thin chrome bars running the length of its front grille, complete with Nissan logo at its centre. Nissan claims they took some inspiration for these features from larger Patrol model SUV. As its first teasers showed exactly one year ago, when first teased to media, its silhouette could resemble that of Renault Duster while its design elements could take influence from larger Patrol SUV, while sporting unique L-shaped LED DRLs connected by chrome strips attached by chrome strips as well as two thin chrome bars running across almost the length of its front grille that carry Nissan logo at its centre compared with Renault Dusters which share similar rugged silhouette.
Other key differences between the new Nissan SUV and Renault Duster include slimmer headlights, horizontally-slatted grille, reshaped front bumpers featuring thick C-shaped silver cladding, prominent creases and scoops on bonnet, as well as differently designed multi-spoke alloy wheels. Keep in mind that teaser shows only concept; production model may feature some design changes.
Interior of New Nissan SUV
Although the teaser does not reveal interior details, its layout should resemble that of the Renault Duster SUV. Range-topping variants should feature driver-focused features like an infotainment touchscreen 10.1 inches large in total; an instrument cluster featuring 7 inch display; 360 camera; rear AC vents; automatic climate control system and drive modes will likely also come standard – similar hardware can be found both ways as they use different user interface. While international models come equipped with an advanced driver assistance systems suite such as an ADAS suite ADAS Suite will not come standard on India-spec models compared with their counterparts from either company.
Nissan SUV engine and gearbox package
Nissan has confirmed our report of their SUV being exclusively powered by petrol at launch, featuring one powertrain option – a 1.3 litre turbo-petrol engine producing 154hp and 250Nm internationally, coupled with an 7-speed dual-clutch auto transmission. An entry level variant with manual gearbox may also be made available; moreover, Nissan hasn’t confirmed whether India will get access to AWD features seen on select versions of international-spec Dusters.
Name and Positioning of New Nissan SUV
Nissan plans on positioning their new SUV higher than its predecessor, the Terrano, to compete against Hyundai Creta and other midsize SUV rivals. Unfortunately for Indian buyers however, the Terrano didn’t leave an impactful impression with them and may use another nameplate for its version of Duster.
Nissan and Renault have also stated their intent to add 7-seat versions of these SUVs to their respective line-ups by FY2026; further details will be unveiled closer to launch date, so keep your eye out!
