In a significant development for the Indian automobile market, Nissan has officially launched the much-anticipated Magnite CNG SUV in India. This move marks Nissan’s entry into the compact SUV CNG segment and is poised to attract cost-conscious buyers looking for an economical and eco-friendly driving option without compromising on space, style, and performance.
Introduction to Nissan Magnite CNG
The Nissan Magnite, since its initial launch, has carved a niche for itself in the compact SUV market with its bold design, feature-rich interiors, and competitive pricing. With the growing demand for alternative fuel vehicles, Nissan has smartly expanded the Magnite lineup by introducing a CNG-powered variant. The Magnite CNG aims to combine affordability with performance, while also aligning with India’s push towards cleaner mobility solutions.
Engine and Performance
The Nissan Magnite CNG is powered by the same 1.0-litre, three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine that powers the standard petrol version. However, in the CNG version, the power output is slightly reduced to ensure better fuel economy and optimal combustion. The engine produces around 72 PS of power and 96 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.
While the CNG variant might not match the turbo-petrol version in terms of outright performance, it offers a balanced driving experience, especially for city commuters. The real highlight here is the fuel efficiency, which is expected to be significantly higher than the petrol version, making it a lucrative choice for buyers looking for low running costs.
Design and Features
The CNG version retains the overall design of the standard Magnite. This means you still get the same aggressive front grille, sleek LED headlamps, sporty body cladding, and attractive alloy wheels that give the SUV a bold road presence. Inside, the cabin remains spacious and premium with features such as:
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8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
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Digital instrument cluster
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Steering-mounted controls
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Rear parking camera
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Automatic climate control
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Dual airbags and ABS with EBD for safety
The boot space is slightly compromised due to the addition of the CNG cylinder, but Nissan has managed the space efficiently to retain practicality.
Pricing and Variants
The Nissan Magnite CNG is available in two variants – XE and XL, keeping it affordable for the mass market. The pricing starts from ₹6.59 lakh (ex-showroom), which positions it competitively against other CNG cars in the segment.
Compared to the petrol variants, the CNG versions are priced around ₹90,000 to ₹95,000 higher, which is a reasonable premium considering the long-term savings on fuel.
Rivals and Market Impact
With the launch of the Magnite CNG, Nissan has entered the competition with other CNG SUVs like the Tata Nexon iCNG (expected) and Hyundai Venue CNG (upcoming). Currently, very few options exist in the CNG SUV space, giving Nissan a first-mover advantage. It also competes indirectly with compact sedans and hatchbacks offering CNG variants from Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai.
The launch is timely, considering the rising fuel prices and the growing consumer preference for cost-effective alternatives. Moreover, the Indian government’s push towards alternative fuels and reducing vehicular emissions gives further momentum to this segment.
Conclusion
The launch of the Nissan Magnite CNG in India is a strategic move by the Japanese automaker to tap into the growing CNG market. By offering a stylish, feature-loaded compact SUV with the economy of CNG, Nissan has made the Magnite even more appealing to urban and semi-urban buyers. For those who are budget-conscious but still want the space and stance of an SUV, the Magnite CNG is definitely worth considering.
With this launch, Nissan reaffirms its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and understanding the evolving needs of Indian consumers.
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