The Nissan Magnite, the car that shook the market with its bold design and feature-rich package, is gearing up for a mid-2024 facelift. Here’s a closer look at what we can expect from this Tata Punch rival:
Subtle Visual Tweaks:
Recent spy shots reveal a heavily camouflaged Magnite undergoing testing. While the overall silhouette remains familiar, some subtle changes hint at a refreshed look:
- Revised Grille and Bumper: The front fascia seems to be getting a makeover with tweaks to the grille and bumper design.
- New Alloy Wheels: Fresh alloy wheel designs add a touch of novelty to the exterior.
- Tail Lamp Design Still Under Wraps: The spy shots don’t reveal the taillights, leaving us to wonder if Nissan will resist the current trend of connected taillights.
Interior Enhancements on the Horizon:
While specifics are yet to be confirmed, reports suggest some improvements inside the cabin:
- Upgraded Upholstery: Expect a refresh in terms of upholstery materials for a more premium feel.
- Feature Additions: The Magnite facelift might boast a sunroof, auto-dimming IRVM (interior rearview mirror), and potentially even ventilated seats for enhanced comfort. Safety could also see a boost with the addition of up to 6 airbags on some variants.
- Carryover Features: Popular features like the 360-degree camera, wireless smartphone connectivity (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay), wireless charging, and rear AC vents are likely to be retained.
Unchanged Powertrains Expected:
Given it’s a facelift, the Magnite is likely to retain its current engine options:
- 1.0-liter Naturally Aspirated Petrol: This engine delivers 71 bhp and 96 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual or AMT gearbox.
- 1.0-liter Turbo Petrol: Offering 99 bhp and 160 Nm, this engine comes with a 5-speed manual or CVT gearbox.
Price and Launch Timeline:
The current Magnite price range starts from Rs 7.39 lakh and goes up to Rs 13.16 lakh (on-road, Mumbai). With the facelift, a price hike of Rs 50,000 to Rs 60,000 across variants is anticipated. The mid-2024 launch timeframe suggests that the official unveiling is just around the corner.
A Renewed Contender:
The Nissan Magnite facelift aims to maintain the subcompact SUV’s competitiveness in the market. The refreshed design, potential feature upgrades, and focus on safety could solidify the Magnite’s position as a compelling choice for car buyers seeking an SUV with a stylish presence, feature-rich cabin, and efficient performance. With the Tata Punch continuing to be a sales leader, the facelifted Magnite is well-positioned to reignite the rivalry in the micro-SUV segment.
