Nissan has finally launched its version of the Renault Duster, the Tekton. While the two midsize SUVs share the same mechanical underpinnings, they differ in terms of design and a few features. Interestingly, this isn't Nissan's first take on the Duster, as the brand had previously sold the Terrano. In this feature, we take a closer look at how the Tekton differs from the Duster, both inside and out.
Nissan Tekton vs Renault Duster: Exterior
Nissan claims that the Tekton's design is inspired by the Patrol flagship SUV, which lends it a more squared-off appearance than the Renault Duster. While the overall silhouette is similar, the Tekton stands separates itself with slimmer LED headlights, connected by a light bar. Even the C-shaped design of the DRLs is different from the Duster's eyebrow-shaped units. Nissan has opted for a traditional grille, housing the logo in the centre, while the 'TEKTON' lettering is present on the bonnet. Another standout for the Tekton comes in the form of a red strip that flank the logo. The Renault SUV, meanwhile, places the 'DUSTER' lettering on the grille. Tweaks have also been made to the front bumper of the Tekton, with lesser use of silver trims.
In profile, details like a multi-spoke design for the 18-inch alloy wheels, variant-specific badging with C-shaped graphics on the front fenders and silver-finished roof rails make the Tekton stand out. A good dose of cladding over the wheel arches and under the doors, pull-type door handles at the front and C-pillar-mounted ones at the rear and shark-fin antenna are common.
Unlike the triangular tail-lamps of the Duster, the Tekton opts for a C-shaped signature, which is a nod to Nissan's Patrol flagship SUV. This signature also trickles down to silver trims on the rear bumper.
Nissan Tekton vs Renault Duster: Interior
Inside, the top-spec Tekton features a dual-tone rose gold and burgundy upholstery, making it stand out over the Duster's black-and-green theme. Further distinction is made by gold finished inserts in the three-spoke steering wheels, dashboard, centre console and door handles.
Speaking of features, both pack a similar set of features, including a 10.1-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital driver's display, panoramic sunroof, a wireless phone charger and 6-way adjustable and ventilated front seats. Safety suite includes 6 airbags, Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera with blind-spot assist, an electronic parking brake and front and rear parking sensors. Like the Duster, the Nissan has received a full five-star crash safety rating from the Bharat NCAP.
Nissan Tekton vs Renault Duster: Powertrains
Like the Duster, the Tekton comes with 100hp 1-litre and 163hp 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine options. Similarly, a 6-speed manual gearbox is on offer with both engines, but an automatic gearbox - a 7-speed DCT in this case - is limited to the more powerful mill. Even the mileage figures of these powertrain options are similar, as can be seen in the table below. That said, the Tekton will not receive the 160hp 1.8-litre strong-hybrid powertrain set to be introduced with the Duster by Diwali.
Nissan Tekton vs Renault Duster: Price
Like the Duster, the Nissan Tekton starts at Rs 10.49 lakh, ex-showroom. However, the Tekton is priced Rs 10,000 less at the top-end at Rs 18.59 lakh. Competing in the midsize SUV space, the Tekton will compete with the Maruti Grand Vitara and Victoris, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Sierra, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun.
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