2025 Nissan Magnite Review – The $7,000 SUV That’s Winning Asia’s Heart

The automotive industry is in flux, and Nissan’s fortunes have been, let’s say, a rollercoaster. While the brand has struggled in major Western markets, it has quietly been making waves elsewhere. Enter the Nissan Magnite — a budget-friendly, feature-packed subcompact SUV that’s proving you don’t need deep pockets to get a capable, stylish ride.

Targeted squarely at emerging markets such as India, Sri Lanka, and parts of Southeast Asia, the Magnite is small in size, big on value, and now, with its 2024 facelift, better than ever.

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What is the Nissan Magnite?

First unveiled in 2020, the Nissan Magnite was never meant for the crowded streets of Europe or North America. Instead, it was designed from the ground up for buyers who demand affordability without sacrificing essentials.

Fun fact — it was initially planned as a Datsun model before the brand’s demise. Nissan wisely decided to reposition it under its main badge, with improved build quality and a stronger focus on safety.

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Quick Specs

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Exterior – Small SUV, Big Personality

The 2025 facelift brings a more premium look to the Magnite. The bold V-motion grille and Bi-LED headlamps give it a confident face, while functional roof rails (load-rated to 50 kg) add utility.

Other highlights:

• 16-inch alloy wheels

• Integrated rear spoiler for sportier styling

• Compact dimensions make it perfect for narrow city streets

Sure, the plastics may not fool you into thinking it’s a luxury SUV, but for the price, it punches above its weight.

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Interior – Surprisingly Upscale for the Price

Step inside and you’ll quickly realize Nissan has worked hard to give the Magnite an upmarket feel in a budget-friendly package.

• Colorful leatherette options (including a bold orange dashboard in top trims)

• High-quality stitching and materials in key touchpoints

• Digital driver’s display with tire pressure monitoring

• 360° surround-view camera (though resolution could be sharper)

• 60/40 split-fold rear seats offering up to 960L of cargo space

• Rear AC vents, USB charging port, and three-point seatbelts for all passengers

It’s comfortable for four adults, with impressive legroom and headroom despite its compact footprint.

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On-Road Performance – NA vs Turbo

You get two engine choices:

1.0L Naturally Aspirated Petrol (71 hp)

• Paired with a manual or AMT gearbox

• Adequate for city driving, but struggles on highways

• AMT shifts can feel jerky, especially when overtaking

1.0L Turbo Petrol (99 hp)

• Comes with a smooth CVT option

• Stronger mid-range power for highway overtakes

• More enjoyable to drive, with better refinement

While neither engine is a performance monster, the turbo is the clear winner for drivers who regularly travel outside city limits.

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Ride & Handling – Built for Real-World Roads

The Magnite’s soft suspension is tuned for pothole-ridden streets and speed bumps, common in many of its target markets. The trade-off is noticeable body roll during sharp turns, but stability is good for its size.

Other driving notes:

• High driving position with excellent visibility

• Easy-to-park dimensions

• Road and wind noise present at high speeds, but manageable

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Safety – A Huge Leap Forward

Earlier versions of the Magnite scored just two stars in crash tests, but the latest model has earned a full 5-star Global NCAP rating.

Safety features include:

• Six airbags

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

• Traction control

• Rear parking sensors + camera

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Verdict – A Game-Changer for Budget SUV Buyers

The 2025 Nissan Magnite isn’t perfect — the infotainment screen could be more responsive, and the NA engine feels underpowered. But judged for what it is — an affordable, stylish, and feature-rich SUV for under $10,000 in some markets — it’s one of the best deals in the automotive world right now.

It’s not just a car; it’s a ticket to mobility for millions. And in that mission, the Magnite succeeds brilliantly.

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