Nissan Magnite Concept Unveiled In India As A Preview Of The Brand’s Smallest SUV

Nissan’s smallest SUV worldwide is almost here and it’s called the Magnite, a combination of the words “magnetic” and “ignite”.

According to the Japanese carmaker, the term ‘magnetic’ is said to highlight the design and the product attributes that will attract customers, while the word ‘ignite’ signifies “the beginning of a new era that Nissan wants to bring in India”.

What you see in the photos is actually the Nissan Magnite Concept, with the production version to debut in fiscal year 2020 in India with very few changes. Built to compete in India’s B-SUV segment, the Magnite (codename EM2) was originally meant to sport the Datsun badge.

However, since Nissan’s restructuring plan calls for the budget brand to be gradually wound down, the EM2 project was transferred to the automaker’s core brand.

“The Nissan Magnite is an evolutionary leap in Nissan’s global SUV DNA. With cutting-edge technology onboard, it will be a game-changer in its segment. A bold offering in the sub-four-meter category, we are confident that Nissan Magnite will redefine the B-SUV segment for the industry,” said Rakesh Srivastava, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India.

“The Nissan Magnite is made on the philosophy of ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ and has been designed in Japan while keeping in mind the requirements and aspirations of Indian customers,” the executive added. Nissan says mostly generic things about the Magnite, such as the fact it will be a “feature rich premium offering with stylish design for a strong and dynamic road presence”.

The Magnite looks rather familiar thanks to styling cues such as its sweptback headlights, which remind us of the larger Nissan Kicks. The octagonal grille and big L-shaped DRLs are more Datsun than Nissan though.

The interior of the B-SUV was not revealed, but Nissan says the Magnite could be among the roomiest models in its class. The automaker also confirmed features like an 8.0-inch touchscreen, connected tech, 360-degree cameras and cruise control. Automatic climate control and a multifunction steering wheel could also be part of the package.

According to Autocar India, the Nissan Magnite will arrive in India in January 2021 with two powertrains. The base choice will be a 72 HP naturally aspirated 1.0-liter three-cylinder petrol shared with the Renault Triber. The unit will be mated as standard to a five-speed manual gearbox, with an automated manual likely to be offered as an option. The second choice will be a 95 HP 1.0-liter turbocharged three-pot hooked to either a five-speed manual or a CVT.