31/Dec/2025 – Editorial Notes: The earlier story mentioned “Renault Duster” was the test mule. Renault India has provided a clarification that the car tested at Himalayan region is not a Duster. We have made the changes accordingly.
2026 Nissan Tekton Spotted During Himalayan Testing: Maruti Gypsy Comes to the Rescue
The highly anticipated 2026 Nissan Tekton has been making headlines as it nears its official India debut. In a recent series of sightings, the third-generation SUV was spotted undergoing rigorous high-altitude testing in the upper reaches of the Himalayas. These tests are a standard procedure for new vehicles to ensure uncompromising performance under extreme weather conditions and thin air.
The Rohtang Pass Incident: A Viral Rescue
A particularly notable instance of these trials occurred near Rohtang Pass in Manali, Himachal Pradesh. A video surfaced online showing a heavily camouflaged test mule—likely the 2026 Nissan Tekton—becoming stranded in thick snow.
Due to the deep snow, the vehicle’s tires lost traction, making it impossible to move under its own power. In a classic display of “old-school” reliability, an old Maruti Gypsy was used to rescue the modern SUV. The lightweight off-roader was connected to the test mule via a tow rope and successfully pulled it out onto a clear patch of road. While such incidents are common during winter testing in the Himalayas, the video has sparked significant discussion among automotive enthusiasts regarding the real-world capabilities of the upcoming model.
What to Expect from the Nissan Tekton in India
The new-gen Tekton marks a major comeback for Nissan in the mid-size SUV segment after a hiatus of approximately four years. Built on the localized CMF-B platform, the India-spec model will feature several unique elements compared to the global version.
Key Expected Specifications of Nissan Tekton
- Launch Date: Nissan is expected to unveil the all new Tekton SUV in February 2026.
- Powertrain Options: Initially, the lineup is expected to be petrol-only, featuring a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine (approximately 156 hp) and a 1.2-litre mild-hybrid unit. A 4×4 drivetrain is anticipated for higher trims.
- Design: The SUV retains a muscular stance with Y-shaped LED DRLs and squared-off wheel arches.
- Interiors: The cabin will include a 10.1-inch floating touchscreen, a 7-inch digital driver display, and a panoramic sunroof.
- Safety: Expected to feature six standard airbags, ADAS, and a 360-degree camera.
The Nissan Derivative: The Tekton
While it shares core components with the Duster, it will feature distinct styling inspired by the larger Nissan Patrol. The Tekton is slated for an official debut in February 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2026 Nissan Tekton launching in India? The 2026 Nissan Tekton is scheduled for its official India reveal in February 2026.
When is 2026 Renault Duster launch happening in India? The all new Duster 2026 model is launching on 26th January 2026 (Republic Day of India)
Will there be a diesel engine option for the new Tekton? Current reports indicate that the 2026 Tekton will likely be offered as a petrol-only model, with no diesel variant planned.
What is the expected price of the 2026 Nissan Tekton? Analysts anticipate a starting price range between Rs 11 lakh and Rs 19 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the variant.
Why was the test mule rescued by a Maruti Gypsy? During high-altitude testing at Rohtang Pass, the test mule lost traction in deep snow. The Maruti Gypsy, a lightweight and capable off-roader frequently used in the region, was employed as a recovery vehicle to tow the SUV to safety.
What is the Nissan Tekton? The Tekton is Nissan’s sibling to the Renault Duster, built on the same CMF-B platform but featuring unique Nissan-specific design elements.
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