Image of the top-spec Acenta Plus with the two-tone roof and turbocharged engine. Image: Nissan
Although it seemingly completed its introduction of SUVs when it debuted the new X-Trail last month, Nissan South Africa, without any fanfare, has expanded the ever-popular Magnite range with a trio of normally aspirated models positioned below the existing turbo.
Additions that up the Magnite range to nine models, after the inclusion of the celebratory Red Edition in November last year, the free-breathing models are specced in three trim levels, Visia, Acenta and Acenta Plus – the former not being available on the turbo.
A configuration already employed by the Magnite’s fraternal twin, the Renault Kiger since its introduction as replacement for the Sandero two years ago, the loss of the turbo sees power drop from 74 kW to 53 kW and torque from 152 Nm to 96 Nm.
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In addition, the optional CVT falls away completely and despite a five-speed automated manual (AMT) being offered in India, Nissan South Africa, most likely as a result of costs, has opted to make the five-speed manual gearbox the sole transmission option available.
According to specialist vehicle information portal, duoporta.com, the non-turbo assisted Magnite will get from 0-100km/h in 16 seconds, on to a top speed of 150 km/h and consume unleaded at a rate of 5.9 L/100km.
Compared to the 1.0-litre turbo variant fitted with the manual ‘box, the atmospheric Magnite’s top speed falls by 23 km/h, while its consumption increases by 0.6 L/100 km and 0-100 km/h time by 5.7 seconds.
Based on Nissan’s website, specification items on the Visia consists of 16-inch steel wheels, a standard audio system still with six-speakers, automatic air-conditioning, electric windows, audio controls on the steering wheel, keyless start, body-coloured bumpers and door handles, and a height adjustable driver’s seat.
On the safety side, the Visia comes standard with dual front airbags, rear parking sensors, a tyre pressure monitor, Hill Start Assist and ABS with EBD.
Upping the ante, the Acenta receives dual-tone 16-inch alloys, chrome door handles and grille accents, LED daytime running lights, folding electric mirrors, the seven-inch digital instrument cluster, multi-function steering wheel, a reverse camera, push-button start, and the eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
At the range’s summit, the Acenta Plus boasts full bi-LED headlights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear lever, the surround-view camera system and cruise control.
On the colour front, Nissan is expected to offer the Visia only in a mono-tone hue with the dual-tone hue likely to be reserved exclusively for the Acenta and Acenta Plus. As it stands, though, nothing regarding this been confirmed.
What continues unchanged, though, is the SUV‘s sticker price being inclusive of a six-year/150 000 km warranty as well as the thee-year/30 000 km service plan.
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