Nissan has released fresh teaser photos of
its upcoming B-SUV concept previewing a new budget SUV for the Indian market.
Expected to be named Nissan Magnite, the pre-production concept will have its
official debut on July 16 at the company’s global headquarters. Nissan says the
production subcompact SUV, codenamed EM2, will launch in the second half of the
fiscal year 2020-2021.
The teaser images reveal details of the
front end, which features similar headlights to the recently facelifted Kicks.
The octagonal grille and L-shaped DRL, however, look more fitting for a Datsun
than a Nissan. That’s not coincidental because the model was originally
destined to wear the Datsun badge.
We also get to see that the concept
features LED headlights but it’s anyone’s guess if the production model will
get them as well. Nissan doesn’t talk specifics and says the small SUV is
stylish and technology-rich, featuring the latest tech as a part of Nissan
Intelligent Mobility.
According to Autocar India, the Nissan
Magnite will be the brand’s smallest model worldwide, with an overall length of
under 4 meters. Mind you, only the Indian market will get it.
Expected to launch locally in January 2021, the subcompact crossover will offer
two powertrains. The base choice will be a 72 HP naturally aspirated 1.0-liter
three-cylinder petrol shared with the Renault Triber. The unit will be mated as
standard to a five-speed manual gearbox, with an automated manual likely to be
offered as an option.
The second engine will be a 95 HP
1.0-liter turbocharged three-pot hooked to either a five-speed manual or a CVT.
