Mysore: Nissan is gearing up to make a major entry into India’s competitive midsize SUV segment with a new model spotted testing on Indian roads for the first time. Expected to launch by mid-2026, this upcoming Nissan SUV aims to rival established players like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and the newly expected Tata Sierra.

Based on the third-generation Renault Duster's CMF-B platform, the new Nissan midsize SUV will mark a crucial expansion of Nissan’s Indian portfolio, which currently features only the subcompact Magnite. The SUV adopts a rugged and upright design inspired by Nissan's global flagship, the Patrol, featuring a pronounced grille with the Nissan badge, sculpted bonnet, flared wheel arches, roof rails, 5-spoke alloy wheels, and rectangular taillights with a connected light bar.

Though the test mule seen was heavily camouflaged, key exterior styling elements such as C-shaped bumper accents, a flat tailgate, and a shark fin antenna are visible. The SUV will likely offer a spacious five-seater layout and may share interior components and technology with the new Renault Duster, including a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, ventilated seats, automatic climate control, and premium upholstery.

On the technology front, the Nissan midsize SUV is expected to come equipped with advanced safety features including six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESP), traction control, and Level 2 ADAS systems such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane assist—though the camouflaged test model appeared without radar sensors, suggesting these features may debut on higher trims.

Powertrain options are expected to include petrol engines, starting with a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol unit delivering around 152 horsepower and paired with manual and 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions. Nissan may also introduce hybrid versions in line with tightening emission norms and the brand’s electrification strategy, while diesel options are presumed unlikely. Additionally, CNG versions may be considered for the Indian market.

Nissan is also planning a seven-seater SUV to be introduced by late 2026 or 2027, complementing the five-seater and expanding its offering to the family SUV segment. Both SUVs will be produced at Nissan’s Chennai plant for domestic sales and exports.

With this launch, Nissan aims to compete head-on in India’s fast-growing midsize SUV segment, strengthening its market presence and providing customers a choice bolstered by global design DNA and advanced technology.

The Nissan midsize SUV is poised to arrive as a robust, stylish, and well-equipped contender, building on the success of the Renault Duster platform, and challenging rivals like Creta and Seltos alongside India’s evolving SUV landscape.