KATHMANDU: Electric vehicles are expected to dominate the upcoming NAIMA Nepal Mobility Expo 2026. However, a few internal combustion engine (ICE) models could also attract attention from visitors who still prefer petrol and diesel vehicles.
The expo is set to kick off today at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu. More than 55 brands are participating, with over 40 new models and products set to be introduced.
Most of the new launches are expected to be electric cars, scooters and motorcycles. Still, the Hyundai Venue, Nissan Tekton and MG Majestor could stand out among the EV-heavy lineup.
Hyundai Venue
The all-new Hyundai Venue is one of the key ICE models expected to attract attention at the expo. The compact SUV has received major updates in design, features and technology.
The new Venue features a more modern exterior with connected LED tail lamps, a redesigned grille and a new bumper design. Laxmi Motor Corporation has also been assembling the venue in Nepal.
The new-generation Venue gets several premium features, including Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera, drive and traction modes, front parking sensors, an electronic parking brake and auto hold.
It also gets a dual-screen setup with 12.3-inch displays. Higher variants are offered with an eight-speaker Bose sound system and more physical controls than before.
The Venue is offered with multiple engine options in the Indian market. These include a 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol, a 1.0-liter turbo-petrol and a 1.5-liter diesel. The exact engine and variant lineup for Nepal will depend on the local market specification.
Nissan Tekton
The Nissan Tekton is another new SUV that could become a major attraction at the expo. Its muscular design, strong road presence and feature-rich cabin give it a distinctive look in the midsize SUV segment.
The Tekton comes with a digital driver display and touchscreen infotainment system. It also gets wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, ventilated front seats and a panoramic sunroof.
Nissan has equipped the SUV with connected-car features through the MyNissan app. These include remote lock and unlock, remote engine start with AC control, remote horn and light control, vehicle status and a Find My Car function.
The Tekton is available with two turbo-petrol engines. The 1.0-liter turbo produces 100 PS and 166 Nm of torque. It comes with a six-speed manual gearbox and has a claimed fuel efficiency of 19.4 km/l.
The 1.3-liter turbo-petrol produces 163 PS and 280 Nm. It is available with a six-speed manual as well as a six-speed wet-clutch DCT.
Safety features include six airbags, Level 2 ADAS, electronic stability control, traction control and a tire pressure monitoring system.
MG Majestor
The MG Majestor could attract buyers looking for a larger and more powerful SUV. Unlike the Venue and Tekton, the Majestor is positioned in a premium, full-size SUV category.
The Majestor is powered by a 2.0-liter twin-turbo diesel engine. It produces 215.5 PS and 478.5 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and is available with both 2WD and 4WD.
The 4WD version gets 10 off-road modes, Crawl Control and triple differential locks for the front, rear and center differentials. It also offers 219 mm of ground clearance and an 810 mm water-wading capability.
The SUV measures 5,046 mm in length and 2,016 mm in width. It has a 2,950 mm wheelbase, giving it a large presence on the road.
Inside, the Majestor gets a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch driver information display. Other highlights include three-zone climate control, JBL surround sound, ventilated front seats and massage functions.
Level 2 ADAS further adds to its safety package. With its combination of size, power, technology and off-road capability, the Majestor could appeal to SUV enthusiasts looking beyond the growing EV market.
With EVs expected to dominate the NAIMA Mobility Expo, these three ICE SUVs could offer visitors a different choice. Their design, performance and features may help them stand out among the large number of electric vehicles on display.
