The India-made Nissan Magnite has secured an impressive five-star safety rating for adult occupant protection and a three-star rating for child occupant protection in the latest Global NCAP crash tests. This accomplishment makes the Magnite the first vehicle in South Africa to earn a five-star rating under the current testing protocols.
When first tested with only two airbags, the Magnite received a modest two-star rating for both adult and child protection. Determined to improve, Nissan implemented a series of voluntary safety upgrades. The company increased the number of airbags from two to six, added Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and enhanced pedestrian protection. Additionally, Nissan improved the seatbelt restraint systems and introduced 3-point seatbelts for all seats.
After the initial round of improvements, the Magnite’s safety rating rose to four stars. However, Nissan continued refining the vehicle’s safety features, ultimately achieving a five-star adult safety rating in a second voluntary crash test.
The Magnite scored 32.31 out of 34.00 in adult occupant protection, earning a five-star rating. In child occupant protection, it achieved 33.64 out of 49.00, securing a three-star rating. The vehicle’s bodyshell remained stable in the frontal impact test, demonstrating strong structural integrity. In the frontal offset deformable barrier test, the Magnite scored 15.307 points, while it earned a perfect 16.000 points in the side impact test. These results were bolstered by the inclusion of standard ESC and reinforced safety engineering.
The Nissan Magnite facelift is available with two engine choices. The 1.0-litre B4D naturally aspirated petrol engine delivers 72bhp and 9.78 kgm of torque and comes paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT. For those seeking more power, the 1.0 -litre HRA0 turbo-petrol engine produces 99bhp and 16.31 kgm, offering a choice between a 5-speed manual or a CVT gearbox.
This five-star Global NCAP rating underscores Nissan’s commitment to safety and innovation, positioning the Magnite as a leader in its segment. With its enhanced safety features and competitive performance, the Magnite is now a compelling choice in markets like India and South Africa, where safety is increasingly prioritized by buyers. This achievement is expected to strengthen consumer trust and reinforce Nissan’s reputation for producing safe, reliable vehicles.
