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Nissan has decided to step-up its game with the unveiling of an all-new compact SUV called the Magnite. This sub-4-metre vehicle will compete in a hotly contested segment in the Indian market. Nissan’s B-SUV will be introduced in the second half of FY 2020-21. The Magnite will be the first of 8 models to arrive in India, under the ‘Nissan NEXT’ strategy.

The SUV’s exterior looks are defined by the projector headlamps, lightsaber-style turn indicators, L-shaped Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and fog lamps – all of which are LEDs. On the inside, the Magnite is equipped with a 7-inch TFT gauge with tyre pressure monitoring system, 8-inch infotainment display with full flush touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with built-in voice recognition. Keeping with the times, the company has also added Nissan Connect, which offers over 50 connectivity features.

Under the hood rests a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine which can be had with a 5-speed manual or an X-Tronic CVT gearbox. The claimed fuel efficiency figure from Nissan stands at an impressive 20 kmpl. Besides, there are creature features like cruise control (CVT), 360-degree Around View Monitor (AVM), diamond cut alloys and more. Other headline figures include 205mm of ground clearance, 336 litres of boot space and 60:40 split-folding rear seats.

As far as safety is concerned, the Magnite comes with ABS, EBD, Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HSA), speed sensing door lock and SRS dual airbag system. Other notables include the Flare Garnet Red colour, anti-roll bar, welcome animation on the TFT, 10-litre glovebox and smartphone tray on the dashboard. All that’s left to do now is wait for the pricing to come along! Where do you feel the Nissan Magnite should be priced to make it a contender?