After ending local production, Nissan is turning to imports for growth in South Africa, with the new Tekton SUV set to become a key model.
Image: Supplied
The first-ever Nissan Tekton has been revealed in India, and the new compact SUV has been confirmed for South Africa.
After more than 60 years, Nissan has ended vehicle production in South Africa, having sold its Rosslyn plant to Chery, but the Japanese carmaker will soldier on as an importer, with the Tekton likely to become one of its strongest contenders in the local market.
Developed and produced in India in partnership with Renault, the Tekton is closely based on the Renault Duster SUV, but features unique frontal styling inspired by the latest Patrol. It will be exported to 50 markets across Africa and the Middle East.
Pricing and specifications for the local market have yet to be revealed, but the newcomer will slot above the Nissan Magnite, likely competing with the likes of Suzuki’s Grand Vitara, Kia’s Seltos and Hyundai’s Creta.
The Nissan Tekton has made its global debut in India
Image: Supplied
Built on the Alliance’s CMF-B platform and measuring 4,349mm in length, it is similar in size to these aforementioned rivals. That makes it slightly shorter than the 4,425mm previous-generation Qashqai.
Customers can choose from two turbo-petrol engines: a 1.0-litre unit that produces 74kW and 166Nm, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, and a 1.3-litre engine that delivers 120kW and 280Nm through either a six-speed manual or six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The interior of the Tekton features an infotainment system with built-in Google and all its associated apps, including Google Assistant and Google Maps, while local models will offer features such as dual-zone climate control, ventilated front seats and a panoramic sunroof.
The Tekton features Google-powered infotainment.
Image: Supplied
Safety features include six airbags, Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist and Blind Spot Warning.
Nissan’s chief performance officer Guillaume Cartier said the Tekton forms part of a move to offer a more diverse portfolio in markets such as India.
“We are building a stronger and more competitive Nissan in India. As we continue to strengthen our SUV-led portfolio and sharpen our market focus, the world premiere of the all-new Nissan Tekton reflects our ambition to leverage strategic partnerships to expand our market coverage,” Cartier said at the vehicle’s world premiere in India this week.
Nissan South Africa has not announced an exact launch date as yet, but the new Tekton is likely to arrive towards the end of 2026. Watch this space for more local details closer to launch.
IOL Motoring