Nissan Magnite is off to a strong start in an attempt to mount a challenge in the subcompact SUV segment that also features such models as the Kia Sonet, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV400, among others. Launched on December 2, Nissan received 5,000 reservations for the Magnite in the first five days, in addition to more than 50,000 inquiries. While Magnite has an introductory starting price of ₹4.99 lakh (ex showroom), the automaker says 60% of the bookings are for the two main variants.
However, for reference, Kia had received 6,500 orders from Sonet on the first day of opening pre-launch reservations. (Full report here)
Still, Magnite’s performance is a strong indication of possible things to come, especially as the post-holiday period sees a cooling down in sales.
(Suggested Reading – Nissan Magnite vs Kia Sonet vs Hyundai Venue vs Maruti Brezza: Price Comparison)
The Magnite launch price is valid until December 31, after which the pricing structure will see a revision, which will cause the base variant to remain at ₹5.59 lakh (former showroom). Even then, Magnite will sit as the most affordable in its segment.
While affordability is key, Nissan says most of the reservations are for the two main variants: XV and XV Premium. The car offers a host of features and handling capabilities, including a turbo engine and CVT transmission option with the top-of-the-line XV Premium (O) Dual Tone with up to ₹9.59 lakh (former showroom).
Interestingly, Nissan also says that 40% of everyone who has booked a Magnite made use of digital channels.
(Related Reading – Hatchback vs Compact SUV: In ₹5 lakh, is Magnite a threat to Altroz, i20?)
Magnite seeks to offer a spacious cabin with capable driving performance. While offered only with gasoline engines, it looks to leverage its strengths, cleverly backed by the acclaimed XTRONIC gearbox.
Magnite also packs a host of features and in a pretty smart move, Nissan offers a tech package in ₹38,698 of grade XV in version 1.0L B4D Petrol MT. The price range for this engine variant and option starts at ₹6.68 lakh (former showroom). The Tech Pack includes features like an air purifier, puddle lamps, ambient light, wireless car charging, premium speakers, and more.
In total, Nissan claims there are more than 20 first-in-class features within the Magnite, which is available in 20 grades.
The Japanese automaker is betting heavily on Magnite, which is its chance to redeem itself in the Indian car market. While the pricing structure makes the car lucrative, it competes in a tight space with worthy rivals to fend off. In addition, Nissan will have to work overtime to expand its sales and after-sales network in the country, an area where it says it is constantly improving.
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