Nissan has been testing the Magnite facelift in India for a few months now, and recent sightings of the test mule has revealed some fresh details.
It’s been a slow couple of years at Nissan with the Magnite being the only model on sale. There’s going to be a fresh infusion of products from the second half of 2025, but until then, the Magnite will have to hold fort for Nissan India. The facelift, therefore, will be crucial to keep churning the numbers.
- Magnite facelift will get updated bumpers, headlamps
- No mechanical changes expected
- Will also be built in LHD guise for export
Nissan Magnite facelift: what does the spy shot reveal?
Updates to the Magnite aren’t expected to be as comprehensive as the Tata Nexon or Mahindra XUV 3XO, and the camouflaged test mule shows that it will likely be limited to just the plastic parts – re-profiled bumpers, new headlamp and grille assembly, and updated LED signatures – and a new set of alloy wheels. Even on the inside, sources say the updates will be limited to new trim pieces and perhaps a few more features; the overall dashboard will remain largely unchanged.
With this facelift, Nissan will also start producing left-hand drive (LHD) versions in India for exports helping it add 25,000-30,000 units annually. Nissan already exports RHD versions from its Oragadam plant.
Nissan Magnite facelift: will remain mechanically unchanged
The Magnite will carry over the existing 1.0-litre petrol engines: the petrol produces 72hp and 96Nm, while the turbo version produces 100hp and 160Nm. The 5-speed manual and AMT gearboxes will also be carried over as is.
Nissan Magnite facelift: launch timeline, expected price
Nissan is yet to confirm a timeline for the Magnite facelift’s launch, but it is expected to arrive early next year when the compact SUV completes four years in the market. At a base price of Rs 6 lakh (ex-showroom), the Nissan Magnite is one of the most affordable SUVs in India along with its cousin, the Renault Kiger. Affordability has been a key distinguishing factor for the Magnite, and the facelift is expected to retain that title. It will continue to rival the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV 3XO, and smaller SUVs like the Maruti Suzuki Fronx, Tata Punch and Hyundai Exter.
Photo Credit: Gokul
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