NISSAN MAGNITE : Story of the most affordable compact SUV

Author : Karthik Sivamani

Compact SUV segment

Compact SUV is a segment which is getting most popularity among the Indian car lovers. The word SUV made us think of something muscular, sportier, rugged and big. The SUVs that were once popular in the Indian market were sturdy and powerful but now the scenario has changed with the availability of C-SUVs. The first C SUV segment was kick started in India by the Ford EcoSport. And was later majorly enjoyed by Renault with their Duster platform and Ford who had higher market shares.

UV which accounted for less than 14% market share in the over all passenger car market has grown to more than 25% in the current date, report by Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM). This is mainly due to introduction of C SUV segment. India is also following the global trend towards UVs. UVs offer greater value for money, they are evolving as multipurpose vehicle with higher ground clearance, greater space and more engine power. There have been more UV launches than cars and that trend is global too. This shift should settle with UVs at around 45-50% of the passenger vehicle market in the next 3-4 years.

Nissan Magnite

Nissan had launched the Magnite on December 2nd at a competitive price of 4.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The automaker believes that this model will be disruptive and a game-changer for Nissan India. Nissan had previously launched the Terrano, which shared the same platform with its sibling Renault Duster which did not perform as expected. But the Magnite is expected to turn the table around. Price of Magnite is not just competitive to any other compact SUVs in the segment but also competitive to those old school hatchbacks.

As expected, the Maginte is performing well in the initial launch. The car has received 5000 bookings within first five days of launch and also more than 50000 inquires. From Nissan India report, more than 60% bookings are for the higher variant of the car that provides first in class technology like around view monitor, full 7-inch TFT instrument cluster, CVT automatic transmission and HRA0 turbo engine along with Nissan’s optional ‘Tech Pack’ that includes wireless charger, air purifier, ambient mood lighting, puddle lamps and high-end speakers.

With the bookings going above 3000 for the top variants within the first week of the launch, it is evident the Indian customers are looking for a compact SUV that is stylish, safe and filled with convenience features that comes with a competitive price tag.