Nissan has revealed key details of the all new Nissan Tekton, a compact SUV that will form the centrepiece of the brand’s upcoming product rollout and is expected to arrive in South Africa during 2026.
The Tekton is positioned above the Magnite and signals a renewed focus on the competitive C SUV segment, which remains one of the strongest in the local market.
The Tekton is built on the Renault Nissan Alliance CMF B platform and shares its core architecture and drivetrains with the latest Renault Duster. This is significant for South African buyers, as the Duster has built a strong reputation locally for its mechanical toughness and everyday usability.
Nissan has confirmed that the Tekton will use similar powertrains, with a 1.3 litre turbo petrol engine expected to be the mainstay of the range. This engine typically produces around 115kW and 250Nm and will be paired with either a six speed manual or automatic transmission.
A mild hybrid system is also expected to form part of the line up in selected markets, while four wheel drive variants are under consideration for regions that demand greater off road capability.
Styling is clearly influenced by the Nissan Patrol, particularly at the front, where the Tekton adopts a bold grille design and C shaped lighting signature. The proportions are compact, but the overall look is deliberately upright and solid. Interior details and final specifications will be confirmed closer to launch, although Nissan has indicated a focus on modern technology and practical cabin space rather than overt luxury.
Alongside the Tekton, Nissan is preparing the next generation Patrol for South Africa, with local introduction expected in late 2026 or early 2027. The new Patrol represents a major mechanical shift, as the long serving V8 has been replaced by a 3.5 litre twin turbo V6 petrol engine.
This unit produces 317kW and 700Nm of torque and is paired with a nine speed automatic transmission. Despite the engine downsizing, the new Patrol offers improved performance and efficiency while retaining its full size off road credentials.
The Patrol will continue to sit at the top of Nissan’s local range, competing with vehicles such as the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 and Land Rover Defender in the luxury off road SUV segment.
For South African Nissan supporters, these upcoming launches offer reassurance at a time of transition. While local production of the Navara bakkie has ended following the sale of Nissan’s Rosslyn plant to Chery, the planned arrival of the Tekton and the new Patrol confirms that Nissan remains committed to supplying relevant and competitive products to the local market, says industry insiders.
MISA, the Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA), welcomes Chery’s investment in South Africa with the acquisition of Nissan’s historic production plant in Rosslyn, Pretoria, which will offer employment to the majority of Nissan’s affected employees.
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