Nissan Plans New SUV for India Based on Terrano PHEV Concept

Nissan is preparing to expand its India portfolio with a new SUV based on the Terrano PHEV concept. This move is part of Nissan’s strategy to strengthen its presence in India, where its product range has been limited in recent years.

Key Highlights

• Nissan plans to launch a new SUV in India based on the Terrano PHEV concept
• The SUV may use a ladder-frame chassis and plug-in hybrid powertrain
• Expected price is around Rs 40 lakhs ex-showroom though final details are unconfirmed
• Local production at Nissan's Chennai facility is being considered for the new model

New SUV Based on Terrano PHEV

The upcoming SUV is expected to originate from Nissan’s joint venture with Dongfeng Motor Corporation. This partnership has already produced several vehicles for global markets. Some of these models are now being evaluated for introduction in India. Among them, an SUV derived from the Terrano PHEV concept, first showcased at the Beijing Auto Show 2026, is under consideration.

The production version is likely to share its platform with pickup-based models such as the Frontier Pro and Dongfeng Z9. The SUV is expected to use a ladder-frame chassis, a design commonly associated with rugged, off-road vehicles. This configuration would place the new model in direct competition with established full-size SUVs in India.

Key Features and Market Position

A significant feature under consideration is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. If introduced, this would be a notable step for Nissan in India, offering both electric driving and traditional internal combustion performance. The model is expected to target the premium SUV segment, competing with vehicles like the Toyota Fortuner and MG Gloster.

Early indications suggest a target price of around Rs. 40 lakhs (ex-showroom). However, final pricing and specifications have not yet been confirmed. Sourcing products from China through the Dongfeng partnership could help Nissan reduce development time and costs. Vehicles from this collaboration are known for quick turnaround and feature-rich offerings, which are important in the Indian market.

Manufacturing and Launch Plans

Local manufacturing will be crucial for the new SUV’s success. Nissan has production capacity at its Chennai facility, previously shared with Renault. This facility could be used to assemble future models, but introducing a new SUV line-up would require additional investment. Company officials have indicated a renewed commitment to India and are actively evaluating such investments.

No official launch timeline has been announced. However, industry expectations suggest that if plans proceed smoothly, the SUV could arrive in India within the next couple of years. The new model may also mark the start of a broader rollout of vehicles from Nissan’s Dongfeng partnership in the country.