Automotive company Nissan has launched the new Nissan Tekton for the South African market during the company’s Nissan Auto Festival, held at the Gallagher Convention Centre, in Midrand, on September 21.

Nissan Africa and Europe president Jordi Villa said South Africa was the first African market to receive this model since the global launch in India, underscoring the importance of the country to the group.

Using South Africa as a launchpad, Nissan will look to roll out the new Tekton across the continent, with the order of this yet to be disclosed.

Speaking to Engineering News on the sidelines of the launch, Villa said the launch demonstrated Nissan’s continued commitment to South Africa, despite it having sold its manufacturing plant in the country to Chery South Africa earlier this year amid the consolidation of manufacturing to certain plants and the shift to imports for certain regions.

Nissan had previously indicated that despite facing challenges in South Africa, including a loss in volumes and selling the plant, it planned to remain committed to the country and launch a series of new models for the local market.

Villa mentioned that the group did not have plans to restart production in South Africa in the short term, as the current setup was deemed optimal; however, he did not rule out the possibility of reviving this in the long term if conditions were amenable.

Meanwhile, he pointed out that the Tekton launch was aligned with the global Nissan’s four-pillar strategy, with one of these being building on an enhanced product portfolio.

Nissan Africa MD Mohammed Samad added the group was expanding its sports-utility vehicle footprint across Africa, with the Magnite, X Trail and Patrol supporting market reach, and the Tekton expected to add the next growth layer.

He highlighted that the newly launched Tekton boasted an elevated interior, with a drive centric cockpit design. This comprised a first in segment tri tone beige burgundy with rose gold interior theme; ergonomically sculptured leatherette seats; smart space management; a panoramic sunroof; and a command centre.

Samad also highlighted that the new Tekton boasted “best in segment power and torque”.

The new model also comprises a driver guardian system, with 17 advanced driver assistance system features.

Meanwhile, Nissan Compact and Family SUV GM Mahmoud Elsaidy reiterated that this launch was part of an ongoing series for Nissan, with the group looking to bolster growth with the launch of new models.

The Tekton launch follows the launch of the X Trail MC in July. A new pick-up is expected to be introduced in the fourth quarter of this year, while the Patrol would be launched in the second quarter of next year.

Moreover, Elsaidy said three new vehicles were under evaluation for launch in the next year.