Nissan Magnite B-SUV concept revealed, launch early 2021

Nissan has today revealed its upcoming Nissan Magnite SUV in concept form. The sub-four-metre SUV is one of eight new models that the Japanese brand has planned for the Asia, Middle East and India region as part of its Nissan Next revamp plan. The Magnite is expected to launch in production form in India early next year.

Nissan says that the styling of the Magnite takes inspiration from its strong tradition of SUVs. In practice, the Magnite concept carries an aggressive look with sharply cut angles. The large hexagonal grille and L-shaped DRLs are reminiscent of what we have seen on recent Datsun cars. The slim headlamps, flared bonnet and the noticeable haunches in the bodywork however are reminiscent of the Kicks and other international Nissan models. At the rear, there are few neat touches like the 3D-effect rectangular taillamps and the concave bootlid section. As expected of a concept, there are striking oversized wheels and chunky body cladding all around.

The new SUV will be based on the CMF-A platform. These are underpinnings that will be shared with the Renault HBC SUV slated for a debut soon. The CMF-A platform is derived from the Kwid's underpinnings and also finds its way under the Renault Triber MPV. The Nissan SUV is set to debut by the first half of 2021 and should come with a similar set of engines as the Triber. These include a 1.0-litre three-cylinder Naturally aspirated petrol with 72PS and 96 Nm. The new 1.0-litre turbo-petrol revealed at the Auto Expo by Renault can also be expected here, with 100PS and 160Nm.

The company confirms that the SUV will be manufactured at the Oragadam plant near Chennai, and will be primarily sold in the Indian markets. However, it will also be exported to other countries as well. Nissan says that the Magnite will be very well packaged for its size and come with a slew of segment-first features. These will include cruise control, 360-degree camera and connectivity options, and a new 8-inch touchscreen not shared with Renault.

OVERDRIVE has also learnt that the Magnite will not share many interior bits and tech with partner Renault, buckling a previous trend. The company has devoted all its energies to this project in India and is expected to price it very aggressively. An under Rs 5 lakh starting price is expected, which will pit it against cars like the KUV100 and the Tata HBX, although the Nissan will be more SUV-like and sit on a larger footprint.

Live updates: Nissan Magnite B-SUV concept reveal, details, launch date, expected price