Nissan Magnite CNG: As fuel costs soar and there is growing concern for the environment, car buyers in India are looking for more efficient and greener alternatives.
That’s where the Nissan Magnite CNG comes into the picture – a small SUV that combines tough looks, usable space, and frugal CNG power.
The Magnite petrol has already established itself in the entry-level SUV swathe, and the inclusion of a CNG variant only sweetens the deal.
Designed for city commuters as well as family users who prefer an SUV-like experience but without high running costs, Magnite CNG While is a comprehensive package that promises to churn out more kilometers per rupee, and that too without compromising on style and comfort modern cars are associated with.
Design: Bold and Functional
It gets the same aggressive stance and bold design language as the petrol sibling. With a signature octagonal front grille accentuated by aggressive headlamps and LED DRLs, this is an SUV stance that gets noticed even on metropolitan streets.
The massive wheelwells, roof-rack rails, and cladding only heighten its sporting character.
Not even with the CNG configuration has the design been sacrificed. The luggage area is squarer, designed to accommodate the CNG cylinder which is integrated into the boot, though that does cut into usable space quite a bit.
Yet the emphasis is still about keeping the exact same urban SUV image buyers in this segment love.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the Nissan Magnite CNG comes with the same 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine that we find under the hood of the standard petrol trims.
On CNG, the engine makes about 57 bhp and 82 Nm of torque, marginally lower than the petrol only version, but adequate for everyday city driving.
The engine comes linked to a 5-speed manual gearbox which is not only drivable but also offers good management in the traffic.
However, it’s not a vehicle made for outright performance but the Magnite CNG is a star when it comes to fuel economy – over 25 km/kg and that makes it one of the most fuel efficient SUVs we’ve seen in the country.
In a city, the Magnite CNG is a smooth and refined drive, particularly in bumper-to-bumper traffic or short rides.
Highway performance is good for a CNG car, though you may feel the dearth of punch during overtaking maneuvers with a full load.
Features and Interiors
In the cabin, the Magnite CNG looks contemporary and well-equipped. The cabin layout is tidy, featuring a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system capable of running Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
The car is user-friendly and comfortable with the steering-mounted control, power windows, rear AC vents, and height-adjustable driver’s seat.
With the CNG kit, you still have decent space for two adults and a child at the rear.
Boot space has decreased with the cylinder in place, but you’re unlikely to have too much grief from day-to-day groceries to shorter regional stays.
Safety is taken care by dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors with speed alert systems.
The upper trims may provide such accessories as a rear camera and traction control.
Pros of Nissan Magnite CNG
Great average of more than 25 km/kg
SUV design plus: premium design elements
Low running cost, perfect for every day use
High ground clearance and citisense
The no nonsense/read-no-instruction-manual-from cover-to-cover-before-starting-up build and reliability of a Japanese car.
Useful functionalities and generous cabin on board of a small SUV
Cons of Nissan Magnite CNG
Reduced power in CNG mode
You lose out on boot space due to CNG cylinder
There’s only a manual option
No CNG with turbo-engine variant
A bit sluggish at full passenger load
Nissan Magnite CNG: Verdict
The Nissan Magnite CNG is the ideal model for those who are SUV fans but are on a hatchback budget.
Although it won’t get your blood pumping with speed or power, it has what it takes: everday usability, low running costs and a bold, modern design.
If you are in the market for a budget compact SUV that’s easy on your wallet and the environment, the Magnite CNG definitely warrants a closer look.