Nissan Magnite has already got the automobile forums buzzing, the concept was unveiled officially a few days back (16th July) and a recently leaked spy shot of the front end suggests that the production-spec model will largely replicate the concept.
How similar does production-spec Nissan Magnite look to the concept?
As mentioned earlier, the production-spec largely looks similar to the unveiled concept. The leaks and the global concept suggested that the Magnite will feature swept-back headlights, similar to the ones found on Kicks. However, it is important to note that the variant that has been spied testing might be a mid-spec variant as it does not feature the LED DRLs and projector headlamps, while the concept clearly hinted towards the inclusion of these features as they were prominently highlighted on the same.
Like the concept, it was also carrying the same Datsun-like octagonal grille with chrome surrounding.
Skid plate and the chunky large-sized tyres that were too be seen on the concept will be carried over to the production-spec model but will be a lot more subtle, the skid plate gets four indents. Red accents observed on the front grille and bumper in the official concept images are not seen on the mid-spec spied Magnite variant, that might be limited to the top-line variants.
What all will the car get?
Engine options to be offered
Nissan Magnite will source the 1.0-litre petrol engine that is currently being offered with Renault Triber. This engine produces a 72PS of power and 100Nm of torque and might be offered with the choice of a 5-speed manual or 5-speed AMT gearbox.
Higher Magnite trims can get the 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine (it will soon be offered with the Triber as well). This turbocharged rig can produce much better power outputs of 100PS and 160Nm of torque. It is expected to get a superior 5-speed CVT gearbox along with the choice of a manual gearbox.
Features on offer
Expect Nissan to fill the Magnite up to the brim with all modern bells and whistles on offer. Magnite might just derive the super utilitarian 360-degree camera from the Nissan Kicks. Along with it, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, full LED headlamps, L-shaped LED DRL, Automatic climate controls, steering mounted controls, Rear AC vents, to name a few.
When will it be launched in India?
Nissan was planning to launch the Magnite sometime around the festive season but the due to COVID-19 pandemic the launch eventually got delayed and can now be expected to be driven in early 2021.
Expected Price
This is where things get very interesting, Nissan has every now and then stated that they plan to launch Magnite at an extremely competitive price. Magnite’s introductory variant can be priced at jaw-droppingly low of Rs 5.5 Lakhs. If Nissan manages to achieve the same, Magnite will surely stir up the kindled sub-4m SUV space.
Author’s Take
Dynamic SUV looks, Segment first feature inclusions, turbocharged engine and a competitive price, there are more than ‘n’ number of reasons why Magnite can pose a real threat to all the sub-4m SUVs including the Maruti Vitara Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Ford EcoSport, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV 300 and Honda WR-V.
It remains to be seen whether Nissan will successfully be able to deliver all the goods when Magnite is finally launched. If it manages to do so, Magnite can really prove to be a game-changer for the Japanese Automaker in India