Nissan Magnite Visia Plus CNG

Hello car enthusiasts and smart buyers! Are you on the lookout for a new car that ticks all the right boxes? In India, finding the perfect family car often comes down to key considerations like your budget, the safety features on offer, monthly maintenance costs, the latest creature comforts, and reliable company service. It's a big decision, and you want to make sure your money is well spent. Today, we are taking a close look at a car that aims to deliver on these fronts, especially for those looking for fuel efficiency and a compact SUV feel: the new Nissan Magnite Visia Plus CNG.

The Nissan Magnite has already made a name for itself in the highly competitive compact SUV segment. Now, with its CNG avatar, it promises even lower running costs. The Visia Plus variant, specifically, aims to offer a balanced package of features and affordability. Let's dive deep and see if this fuel-efficient SUV could be your next ride.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

• Engine Type: 1.0L naturally aspirated petrol engine (B4D) with CNG kit.
• Displacement: 999 cc
• Power Output (Petrol Mode): Approximately 72 PS (71 hp) at 6250 rpm
• Torque Output (Petrol Mode): Approximately 96 Nm at 3500 rpm
• Power Output (CNG Mode): Approximately 68 PS (67 hp) at 6250 rpm
• Torque Output (CNG Mode): Approximately 95 Nm at 3500 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed Manual Transmission (only option for CNG variants)
• Fuel Efficiency (Claimed): Expect excellent mileage figures, typically over 20 km/kg in CNG mode, making it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class.

Design Overview

The Magnite's design is one of its biggest attractions. It's bold, muscular, and has a strong road presence, especially for a sub-4-meter SUV.

• Exterior:
  • A prominent, chrome-finished grille gives it a premium look.
  • Sleek Bi-LED projector headlamps (in higher variants, halogen for Visia Plus) and L-shaped LED DRLs (daytime running lights) add to its modern appeal.
  • Muscular wheel arches and roof rails enhance its SUV stance.
  • Diamond-cut alloy wheels (available in higher variants, Visia Plus might get steel wheels with covers or smaller alloys).
  • High ground clearance makes it capable of handling varied Indian road conditions.
• Interior:
  • A spacious and functional cabin with a dual-tone theme.
  • Decent quality materials used throughout, offering a comfortable feel.
  • Ergonomically designed dashboard with easy-to-reach controls.
  • Good headroom and legroom for front passengers, while rear space is adequate for two adults and a child.

Key Features (Nissan Magnite Visia Plus CNG)

While the Visia Plus sits as a mid-range variant, it aims to offer a compelling list of features for its price point. Keep in mind that specific features can vary slightly across different model years or regional offerings.

• Infotainment System: An 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (wired connectivity likely for Visia Plus).
• Music System: Integrated audio system with 4 speakers.
• Driver Information Display: Digital instrument cluster (7-inch TFT display in higher variants, Visia Plus might get a smaller unit or more basic display).
• Air Conditioning: Manual AC controls. (Automatic climate control is usually reserved for higher XV variants).
• Power Windows: All four power windows.
• Rear Parking Aids: Rear parking sensors for easier maneuvering.
• Keyless Entry: Remote central locking.
• Adjustable Steering: Tilt-adjustable steering.
• Sunroof: Please note, a sunroof is NOT available in any Nissan Magnite variant.
• 360-degree Camera: This advanced feature is only available in the top-end XV Premium variant, not in Visia Plus.
• Wireless Charging: Also an exclusive feature for the top-end XV Premium variant.

What is the Ground Clearance of the Nissan Magnite?

The Nissan Magnite boasts a class-leading ground clearance of 205 mm. This is excellent for Indian roads, allowing it to easily tackle potholes, speed breakers, and uneven terrain without scraping its underbelly.

What is the Boot Space of the Nissan Magnite Visia Plus CNG?

While the petrol Magnite offers a generous 336 litres of boot space, the CNG variant will have a significantly reduced usable boot space due to the placement of the CNG cylinder. Expect a capacity of around 80-100 litres for small bags and luggage, with the cylinder occupying the major portion. This is a common trade-off for CNG cars.

What are the Dimensions of the Nissan Magnite?

• Length: 3994 mm
• Width: 1758 mm
• Height: 1572 mm (with roof rails)
• Wheelbase: 2500 mm

Powertrain Options

The Nissan Magnite offers a choice of two petrol engines, but the CNG option is specifically paired with one:

• 1.0L Naturally Aspirated Petrol: This is the engine that comes with the CNG kit. It offers good fuel efficiency and is tuned for city driving. Available only with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
• 1.0L Turbo Petrol: (Not available with CNG) This engine offers more power and comes with both 5-speed manual and CVT automatic transmission options, providing a sportier driving experience.

Safety Features

Safety is a key strength of the Nissan Magnite, offering a reassuring package for families.

• Dual Front Airbags
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Brake Assist (BA)
• Rear Parking Sensors
• Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) for enhanced stability
• Hill Start Assist (HSA)
• Traction Control System (TCS)
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS - in higher variants)
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts (in higher variants)
• Seatbelt reminders for front passengers

NCAP Rating Table

The Nissan Magnite has an impressive safety rating, especially for its segment.

Rivals of Nissan Magnite Visia Plus CNG

The Nissan Magnite Visia Plus CNG competes in a growing segment of compact SUVs and hatchbacks with factory-fitted CNG kits. Its main rivals include:

• Tata Punch CNG
• Hyundai Exter CNG
• Maruti Suzuki Fronx CNG
• Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG
• Tata Nexon CNG (upcoming)

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Let's break down what works well for the Nissan Magnite Visia Plus CNG and where it might fall short, helping you make an informed choice.

Conclusion

The Nissan Magnite Visia Plus CNG emerges as a highly sensible and appealing option for prospective car buyers in India, especially those prioritising budget-friendly running costs and an SUV feel. It brings a winning combination of a bold design, segment-leading ground clearance, and a robust safety package, all wrapped in a competitively priced offering. While it does come with the typical CNG trade-offs like reduced boot space and a slightly less peppy performance compared to its turbo-petrol sibling, its strengths in fuel efficiency and safety often outweigh these compromises for its target audience.

If you are looking for a trustworthy, fuel-efficient compact SUV for your family, capable of handling daily city commutes and occasional highway runs without burning a hole in your pocket, the Nissan Magnite Visia Plus CNG deserves a serious look. It's a smart choice that offers a lot of car for your money, making it a strong contender in the bustling Indian automotive market. Happy driving!