Nissan Magnite: When the market is filled with small SUVs from heavyweights like Maruti, Hyundai, Tata and Kia, it’s tough to make a statement.
But somehow, for the last few months, the Magnite has found its place. Launched as a budget-friendly but feature laden SUV, the Magnite has been a quiet shocker in terms of value for money.
Fast forward to 2025 and it remains one of the most sensible, stylish sub-4 metre SUVs around.
But does it retain its appeal in a segment that continues to morph? Let’s dive in.
Design: Bold Yet Compact
The front of the Magnite is one of the first things you’ll notice. The large grille up front, the slim LED headlamps and the L-shaped DRLs make it look bold.
Despite it being small in size, the sharp body lines and raised ground clearance veer it more in the direction of an SUV than crossover.
The dual-tone colour choices and diamond-cut alloy wheels on the top versions also add to its visual appeal.
It’s not going for the aggressive look — it’s designed to be the sharp and sophisticated look, and it does a very good job at doing that.
Interiors: Simple but Smart
Climb inside, and you’ll discover a cabin that’s oriented more toward function rather than outright flash.
There are hard plastics, but they’re assembled nicely. The dash layout is uncluttered and there appears to be a healthy focus on ergonomics.
Features: Features-wise, Nissan has loaded the Magnite to the gills:
8-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
7-inch digital instrument display
Push-button start
Rear AC vents
Wireless phone charger (in top trims)
360-degree camera
Cruise control
The front seats are well-cushioned and provide a good view of the road. The rear seat space is actually quite spacious for a car in this class, with plenty of legroom and headroom.
And the boot space is on the respectable side too at 336 litres for a compact SUV.
Performance: Made for the City
The Magnite is available with two petrol engines:
up to a 1.0-lt naturally aspirated (approx 72 PS)
1.0-litre turbo-petrol (up to 100 PS)
The non-turbo engine is ideal for easy city driving. It gets the job done, but it doesn’t exactly have much vim.
It’s the turbocharged engine that, for better or worse, changes the experience. Power delivery is peppy, responsive, and even surprisingly fun to drive—especially when you’re hustling along with the CVT automatic.
The handling is light enough to be city friendly, and the steering feel does its part to make parking and threading through tight spaces easy as pie.
The car stays composed on the highway, though there may be some engine noise at highway speeds. Ride quality is neutral — neither harsh nor floaty.
Safety: Well-Rounded Package
In terms of safety, the Magnite does tick most of the boxes — at least in its price bracket. Key safety features include:
2 airbags (6 in higher trims)
ABS with EBD
Vehicle stability management
Hill start assist
ISOFIX child seat mounts
When in reverse, rear park sensors and a rear camera are standard.
It has also been awarded a 4-star safety rating from Global NCAP, which will offer buyers a little peace of mind.
Pros:
Cut-price with excellent value for money
Performance from the turbo-petrol engine is enjoyable and punchy
Small but with a road SUV kind of attitude
So feature-rich, even in mid versions.
Roomy cabin and functional boot
Cons:
Its naturally aspirated engine feels undergunned
Build quality on the inside could definitely be improved
There’s nothing special about the NVH at cruise, but as the revs build, things get a bit noisy.
Certain features restricted to range-topping trims
Nissan Magnite: Final Thoughts: A Budget SUV That Doesn’t Feel Budget
It might not have the buzz of its Indian or Korean competitors, but the Magnite brings to the table what it should – style, space, features, and value.
If you want an SUV that doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket, but gives you the modern-day driving experience you’d desire today, the Magnite is well worth your attention.
It might have come into the ring as a longshot, but time and time again, it has shown that it can punch well above its weight.
For city families or those looking to step into an SUV for the first time, or switching from hatchbacks to something tall and trendy, the Magnite is a wise and practical choice.