Nissan Magnite vs Renault Kiger – SUV Showdown
Nepalese automobile consumers have shown a shifting behavior similar to that of the global trend. Roads filled with Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) offered by various renowned companies is a common sight. Domestic automobile dealers have revealed that SUVs currently make up 50% of the automobile market, which is expected to increase further in the days to come.
Specifically, sub-compact SUVs offering modern features in an affordable range of price are becoming increasingly popular in the country. Two of such models which have appealed to the audience are the recently launched “Nissan Magnite” and “Renault Kiger”. Both of these models boast advanced features in a compact design resulting in a promising sales figure. Pioneer Moto Corp Pvt. Ltd., the sole distributor of Nissan, announced that Magnite sales crossed over 578 units within 74 working days, since its launch in February 2021. While the sales figure of Kiger has not been disclosed as of yet by Advanced Automobiles Pvt. Ltd., frequent sightings in the public insinuate a promising figure.
Price Range
Nissan offers 11 variants of Magnite with price ranging from Rs 29.99 lakhs to 44.99 lakhs whereas Renault offers seven variants of Kiger with price ranging from Rs 28.49 lakhs to 37.69 lakhs.
Design
Nissan Magnite boasts a new design based on three Japanese design concepts: KABUKU (Pioneer), SUI (Purpose) and INASE (Vibrant). The front section consists the Signature Nissan Grille, Bi-Projector headlamp setup, LED Light Guide and I-Shaped LED fog lamp. The side features a premium design with blacked-out roof, glossy back cladding, chrome handlebar and blacked-out side skirts. The rear gets a Wide-Split Signature Tail Lamp. The interior comes with a couple seat distance, cockpit interface design and large cargo space.
At first glance, Renault Kiger’s design suggests a bulkier version of its Kwid model. However, the dual-tone exterior based on CMFA+ platform does not fail to captivate. The front side comes with tri-octa LED pure vision headlamps and the rear side has C-shaped signature LED taillamps. The interior has a comfortable passenger and storage space.
Specifications
| Nissan Magnite | Renault Kiger | |
| Engine | · B4D 1.0L Petrol· HRA0 1.0L Turbo Petrol | · 1.0L Naturally Aspirated Petrol |
| Emission Standards | BS6 | BS6 |
| Displacement | 999cc | 999cc |
| Dimension | 3997 x 1758 x 1572 mm | 3991 x 1750 x 1605 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm | 2500 mm |
| Max Power | · 72 PS @ 6250 rpm in Petrol· 100 PS @ 5000 rpm in Turbo Petrol | · 72PS @ 6250 rpm in Petrol |
| Max Torque | · 96 Nm @ 3500 rpm in Petrol· 160 Nm @ 2800- 3600 rpm in Turbo Petrol | 96Nm @ 3500 rpm in Petrol |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual | 5-Speed MT / 5-Speed AMT in Petrol |
| Drive Type | FWD | FWD |
| Top Speed | 150 Kmph in Petrol173 Kmph in Turbo Petrol | 155 Kmph |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 liters | 40 liters |
| Mileage | 18.75 Kmpl | 20 kmpl |
| Front Tyre | 195/60 R15 – Disc | 195/60R16 – Disc |
| Rear Tyre | 195/60 R15 – Drum | 195/60R16 – Drum |
| Tubeless Tyre | Yes | Yes |
| Safety System | ABS, EBD, VSC, HA | ABS, EBD |
| Suspension System | MacPherson Strut and Twin Tube Telescopic | MacPherson Strut and Twist Beam with Coil Spring |
| Seating | 5-Seater | 5-Seater |
| Storage Capacity | 336 liters | 405 liters |
| Ground Clearance | 205 mm | 205 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 939 kg – 1014 kg | 1012 kg |
| Colors | Red-Black, Blue-White, Brown-Black, White-Black, Brown, White, Black, and Silver | White, Grey, Moonlight Grey, Brown, Blue, and Red with Black Roof |
· In Nepal, Nissan has launched turbo and non-turbo engine versions of Magnite whereas Renault offers only its non-turbo engine models. The turbo engine gives a slight edge to Nissan Magnite as it enhances vehicle performance and efficiency.
· Magnite has VSC (Virtual Safety Car) and HA (Hill Start Assist) safety systems which are absent in Kiger
· Magnite additionally features rear AC vents, ambient lighting, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System with ESC and around view monitor.
· Kiger has a slight edge over Magnite when it comes to mileage.
· Kiger is comparatively more spacious than Magnite
· Kiger additionally features automatic transmission gear (optional), rear parking sensor, rear view camera, air purifier and wireless phone charger (optional).
In the present context, the availability of the turbo petrol engine model in Nissan Magnite will attract customers who are seeking powerful and efficient performance. Additionally, the distinct design of the model is certain to charm customers. On the contrary, customers looking for a spacious car with higher mileage will be attracted by Renault’s Kiger. Although the model initially projects a resemblance to an earlier model (Kwid), a closer look is bound to set it apart. All in all, Kiger and Magnite are hot names in the SUV market of Nepal and bound to provide customers with a premium driving experience at an affordable price.
