The much-anticipated Nissan Magnite compact SUV’s production model has finally made its global debut in India. The SUV will mark the entry of Nissan in the highly competitive sub-4 meter SUV category, which is currently dominated by Maruti Vitara Brezza, Hyundai Venue and newly-launched Kia Sonet.
Nissan’s new compact SUV is based on the Renault-Nissan alliance’s CMF-A modular platform, which also underpins the Renault Triber. In fact, Renault’s upcoming compact SUV, rumoured to be called the Kiger, will also be developed on the same platform.
For people not in the know, the Magnite compact SUV was earlier planned to be launched under the Datsun brand. However, Nissan has decided to slowly phasing out the Datsun brand globally due to low demand.
The production version of the Nissan Magnite looks largely similar to the concept that was unveiled earlier this year. It features the Datsun-like larger octagonal-shaped front grille, flanked by bi-projector LED headlights. The front end further adorns by L-shaped LED DRLs, faux skid plates, a sculpted bonnet and LED fog lamps.
The side profile of the new Nissan compact SUV looks quite muscular with dual-tone 16-inch alloy wheels, pronounced wheel arches, ORVMs with LED side indicators, prominent body cladding, silver roof rails, blacked out pillars, dual-tone roof. At the back, the model features LED taillamps, a layered bumper, clutter-free tailgate and a beefy rear bumper.
The production-ready Magnite follows the concept’s interior design theme. The small SUV offers more than 20 segment-first features such as a 360 degree camera, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other key features include a 7.0-inch TFT display for the instrument console, leather wrapped steering wheel, automatic climate control, steering mounted controls, cruise control and connected car technology.
The standard safety kit includes dual airbags, ABS with EBD and rear parking sensors. The higher trims come with some exclusive fitments such as traction control, vehicle dynamic control, hill start assist and Isofix child seat mounts.
The Nissan Magnite will be offered with four engine and gearbox combinations. The setup will include a 72bhp, 1.0L, -cylinder naturally aspirated petrol unit with manual and AMT gearboxes and a 95bhp, 1.0L, 3-cylinder turbo petrol motor with manual and automatic transmissions.
