The Nissan Magnite started its life as Datsun Go Cross Concept and this is evident in its front end design
Nissan is inching closer to introducing its sub-4m SUV, the Magnite, in India. The compact B-segment crossover has been spotted without camouflage for the first time, revealing its front end design. We can’t help but notice that there is hardly any typical Nissan design element.
Origins of Nissan Magnite
Five years ago, when Nissan was still confident about the prospects of its low-cost Datsun brand, the Go Cross Concept was unveiled at Tokyo Motor Show. However, as it turned out, Datsun did not meet the company’s expectations in any of its target markets including India. Considering that the future of the budget brand is uncertain, the Go-Cross eventually spawned the Nissan Magnite.
As the spy shot shows, the hexagonal grille is a clear hint of Magnite’s Datsun roots. The angular LED headlamps, L-shaped chrome bumper inserts and a silver scuff plate add a premium appeal to the compact SUV. Going by the recently released concept renderings, the Magnite features more accentuated sheet metal surfaces and sportier profile compared to the Go-Cross concept. The rear fascia features neat looking combination lights and a heavily contoured tailgate.
We expect the interiors to share a lot of components with the larger Kicks. Going by the segment standards, we can expect the fully-loaded variant of the Nissan Magnite to come equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, etc. On safety front, dual front airbags and ABS will be standard across the range as per the current regulations.
What powers the Nissan Magnite?
Underpinned by the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s CMF-A+ platform, the Nissan Magnite will be powered by a new 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine which is said to be producing over 90 hp and 150 Nm of torque. A 5-speed manual transmission and a 6-speed CVT will be on offer. We don’t expect the SUV to offer diesel engine option. The same engine and gearbox options will be shared with the upcoming Renault Kiger.
If it is not for the pandemic, the Nissan Magnite would have been ready sometime in the later half of 2020. The situation in Chennai where the SUV is going to be manufactured is sub-optimal now and this is likely to push the launch to 2021.
The Nissan Magnite will be an important product for the automaker in India. It will rival the Maruti Vitara Brezza, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Mahindra XUV300, Kia Sonet and Renault Kiger.
