Hrithik Roshan Joins Nissan as Tekton SUV Hits Indian Roads

In a strategic push to capture the premium mid-size SUV market, Nissan has unveiled the all-new Tekton alongside the appointment of Bollywood superstar Hrithik Roshan as its global brand ambassador.

MUMBAI — Nissan Motor India officially launched its latest premium C-SUV, the Tekton, on Thursday, signaling a significant expansion of the automaker’s footprint in the competitive Indian passenger vehicle segment. The launch event in Mumbai also marked the debut of Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan as the new brand ambassador for the company, a move designed to elevate the brand's visibility and appeal to younger, premium buyers.

The Tekton, which is manufactured at the company’s Chennai plant, enters the market with an introductory starting price of ₹10.49 lakh (ex-showroom). The SUV is positioned to compete directly with established players in the mid-size segment, including the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and the Renault Duster.

A New Strategy for the Indian Market

The launch of the Tekton is the second product introduction in Nissan's aggressive 2026 growth strategy. According to Nissan Motor India Managing Director Saurabh Vatsa, the company is aiming for an annual sales target of 200,000 units, with a strategic 50:50 balance between domestic sales and exports.

"We are building a stronger and more competitive Nissan in India," said Guillaume Cartier, Chief Performance Officer at Nissan. "The world premiere of the all-new Tekton reflects our ambition to combine global product strength with deep local relevance."

The vehicle is built on the modular CMF-B platform, shared with the Renault Duster, and emphasizes a "one car, one world" philosophy. Nissan has confirmed that the Tekton will not only serve Indian customers but will also be exported to over 40 countries across the Middle East and Africa.

Design and Performance

Drawing inspiration from the legendary Nissan Patrol, the Tekton features a rugged, upright stance, a wide grille with integrated LED headlamps, and C-shaped daytime running lights. The vehicle’s aesthetic is complemented by 18-inch alloy wheels and a muscular bonnet, reinforcing its identity as a premium SUV.

The Tekton is the only model in its segment to offer a fully turbocharged engine lineup. Buyers can choose between:

• 1.0-litre Turbo Petrol: 100 hp and 166 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.

• 1.3-litre Turbo Petrol: 163 hp and 280 Nm of torque, available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

Interior and Tech-Forward Features

Inside, the Tekton offers a sophisticated cabin featuring a dual-tone rose gold and burgundy theme. Technology integration is a centerpiece of the interior, boasting:

• 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google built-in.

• 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster.

• Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

• Ventilated front seats and a panoramic sunroof.

Safety remains a priority, with the SUV earning a 5-star BNCAP safety rating. Standard and optional safety tech includes six airbags, a 360-degree camera, electronic stability control, and front and rear parking sensors.

Why It Matters

The introduction of the Tekton and the partnership with Hrithik Roshan represent a major pivot for Nissan in India. By utilizing India as a primary production hub for both right-hand and left-hand drive vehicles, the company is looking to stabilize its volumes and reduce its historical reliance on export-only cycles. For consumers, the Tekton offers a feature-rich, high-safety alternative in a crowded SUV market.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Price Range: ₹10.49 lakh to ₹18.59 lakh (ex-showroom).

• Booking Details: Open now for a token amount of ₹21,000; deliveries commence July 20, 2026.

• Safety: Awarded a 5-star rating by BNCAP.

• Trim Levels: Six variants (Visia, Visia Plus, Acenta, N-Connecta, Tekna, and Tekna Plus).

FAQ

When will deliveries start?

Customer deliveries are scheduled to begin on July 20, 2026.

Does the Tekton come with a hybrid option?

No. Despite previous speculation, the Nissan Tekton is strictly available with turbocharged petrol engines; there is no hybrid powertrain offered.

What is the boot space capacity?

The company claims the vehicle offers up to 700 liters of storage capacity, depending on the configuration.

Source: Nissan India, NDTV Auto, The Economic Times, Rediff Money