Nissan Magnite review, road test

Nissan’s fresh take on the compact SUV segment is loaded with features and wears a killer price tag.

Published on Feb 19, 2021 11:29:00 AM

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A four-star score in ASEAN NCAP’s crash test is a testimony to its structural integrity.

The CMF-A+ platform that underpins the Nissan Magnite (and the Renault Triber) is a derivative of the Renault Kwid’s CMF-A, but this one is larger in size, has been further strengthened, and it shares very few parts with the entry-level platform, making it practically an all-new structure. What’s more, ASEAN NCAP awarded the Indonesian-market (but made in India) Magnite a respectable four stars in its recent crash tests, which is a reassuring testimony to its structural integrity; and that’s despite it being the lightest in class, at 939-1,039 kilograms.

Full-LED headlamps, DRLs and fog lamps add to its bling factor.

Conceptualised from scratch to measure less than four metres in length, it comes across as a well-proportioned SUV. Its length and wheelbase are on par with other compact SUVs, but it is the narrowest and lowest in the segment. With its slim, sharply styled LED headlamps, and L-shaped DRLs flanking the oversized hexagonal grille, its front end might remind you of the Datsun Redigo, and that’s because the Magnite was originally conceived to be a Datsun offering. However, in 2019, Nissan decided it would phase out the underperforming Datsun brand by 2022, and hence launched this as a Nissan. The striking character lines, bold stance, snazzy wheels, dual-tone colour scheme, and handsome rear design certainly make this a head turner. The impressive 205mm of ground clearance also helps solidify its SUV image, but on the flip side, the big wheel arches also highlight the relatively weedy 195/60 R16 tyres. On closer inspection, you will also notice some inconsistent shut lines, particularly on the bonnet and boot, which point to the Magnite being built to a cost.