Here’s How Nissan’s Upcoming Tekton Sets Itself Apart From The Terrano

Nissan’s upcoming Tekton marks the brand’s big return to the compact SUV space. Expected to go on sale in 2026, it takes on the likes of the Hyundai Creta with its modern stance. The Terrano, on the other hand, was once Nissan’s key player in this space, known for its tough and practical styling. 

While both SUVs are separated by more than a decade, they tell an interesting story of Nissan’s evolving design philosophy. Let’s see how the new Tekton compares with the older Terrano in terms of exterior styling.

Nissan Tekton vs Nissan Terrano: Exterior Design

Front

The Tekton’s face is a complete departure from the Terrano’s conventional SUV design. It gets a sleek, connected LED light bar running across the nose, ending in signature C-shaped DRLs. The large rectangular grille with dual horizontal slats houses the new Nissan badge proudly while the muscular bonnet lines and vertical bumper cuts add to its bold persona.

The Terrano, in comparison, featured a more traditional look with a large chrome-surrounded grille and halogen headlights. Its design appeared straightforward, prioritising toughness over flair, with a thick bumper and a flat bonnet that exudes classic SUV appeal.

Side Profile

From the side, the Tekton sports a modern crossover stance with flared rear fenders, thick body cladding, and 10-spoke diamond-cut alloys. A silver accent on the front doors and C-pillar-mounted door handles lend it a distinctive and sporty edge.

The Terrano followed a more upright and functional silhouette with simpler body lines. Its smaller alloy wheels and restrained use of cladding underline its utilitarian intent rather than the aesthetic approach seen with the Tekton.

Rear Profile

At the back, the Tekton looks sharp with its connected LED tail lamps, a raked rear windshield, and a chunky black bumper. The spoiler adds a sporty touch, while the design stays in line with modern Nissan cues.

The Terrano’s rear design, on the other hand, was more understated. It featured standalone tail lamps without any connecting light bar, or a flatter rear glass area. Its design fits the traditional SUV mould but lacks the visual drama of the Tekton.

Nissan Tekton vs Nissan Terrano: Cabin Layout

While Nissan has not fully revealed the Tekton’s cabin yet, teaser sketches hint at a more minimalistic dashboard with layered surfaces and body-coloured trims. Expect dual screens for infotainment and instrumentation, along with premium materials and contrasting inserts.

In contrast, the Terrano’s cabin, with its dual-tone light and dark theme, felt practical. Other touches include chrome surrounds on the air vents and piano-black trim in higher variants. Though solidly built, its layout felt dated, especially in the later phase of its sale.

While there is no official news yet about the introduction of the Nissan Tekton in our market, it is expected to be priced between Rs 12 lakh and Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom). Upon launch, it will take on the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, and Honda Elevate.