Nissan Prepares to Launch New SUV in India, Targeting Creta and Other Rivals

Nissan is set to increase its presence in the Indian market with the introduction of a new SUV. Currently, the Magnite is the sole model in Nissan’s Indian product range, and the company plans to expand its offerings with two new SUVs. One of these will be a C-segment SUV, based on the third-generation Renault Duster. The Japanese automaker has started testing its new mid-size SUV in India. The new Nissan SUV will compete with established models like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Honda Elevate, and the upcoming Tata Sierra and Maruti’s new mid-size SUV. The car is expected to launch by mid-2026. The new Nissan SUV is expected to feature a unique grille design with the brand’s logo, a bumper with C-shaped design elements, and a raised bonnet. Other expected features include plastic wheel arches, 5-spoke alloy wheels, a shark fin antenna, a spoiler, distinctively shaped taillights, and a flat tailgate. Information regarding the interior is currently unavailable. However, it is speculated that the cabin layout and features will be similar to the new Renault Duster. The new Nissan SUV is anticipated to be offered with various powertrain options, including petrol, CNG, and hybrid. Lower-spec variants might be powered by a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine, while higher trims could feature either a 1.0-liter or a 1.3-liter turbo petrol engine. The Renault Duster hybrid is expected to be launched within 12 months of the ICE variant, which is expected to be on the roads by early 2026. The hybrid powertrain C-segment SUV from Nissan will be launched later. The automaker is also considering a CNG variant for the C-segment SUV, possibly opting for a third-party or retrofitted CNG solution, similar to the Kwid and Kiger.