Nissan Magnite High-Spec Variant Spotted Testing

• The Nissan Magnite is built on Renault-Nissan's CMF-A+ platform.

• Recent sighting reveals alloy wheels, roof spoiler and rails.

• Confirmed features include an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 360-degree camera, connected car tech, and cruise control.

• The Magnite will lock horns with the likes of Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Ford EcoSport, and the upcoming Kia Sonet and Renault Kiger.

Nissan plans on entering the sub-4m SUV segment with the Magnite, which was digitally showcased as a concept recently. It is touted to be a feature-loaded offering and we seem to have seen some proof in one of the test mules.

Despite the heavy camouflage, it is pretty clear that this test mule is closer to a production-ready version of the sub-compact SUV. It seems to be a top-spec variant, or at least something close to it, thanks to the alloy wheels, roof-integrated spoiler, and roof rails which are likely to be functional like the Triber. The overall silhouette is also similar to the concept showcased a few days back.

Like its competitors, the Magnite could come loaded to the gills with features. It is confirmed that the Magnite will come with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, connected car technology, 360-degree camera, and cruise control. Other expected features could include push button start, four airbags, digital instrument cluster, keyless entry, and the fan-favourite sunroof.

It is built on Renault-Nissan's CMF-A+ platform and to further that alliance, will share its powertrain options with the upcoming Renault Kiger. It is expected to feature a 72PS 1.0-litre petrol engine in the lower variants. The higher-spec models could feature a 100PS 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine. Alongside a standard manual transmission, we can expect the option of a CVT for the turbocharged petrol engine.

Nissan is expected to launch the Magnite in January 2021. It will aim for a competitive starting price of around Rs 5.5 lakh. However, it will have its work cut out as it has to fend off competition not only from existing players like the Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300 and Hyundai Venue but also the upcoming Kia Sonet and Renault Kiger.