New Nissan Compact SUV Spied Testing: A Formidable Rival to Creta and Victoris
Nissan Motor India Pvt Ltd (NMIPL) is gearing up for a significant push into the competitive Indian automotive market. While currently relying heavily on the Magnite, the company has consistently reiterated its commitment to India with a robust future roadmap. This plan includes multiple new launches, among which a new compact SUV has been spied testing, revealing crucial details about what promises to be a formidable competitor in the segment dominated by vehicles like the Hyundai Creta and the upcoming Maruti Victoris.
Muscular Proportions and Commanding Presence
The spied Nissan compact SUV immediately stands out with its commanding presence and muscular proportions. Unlike the current crop of compact SUVs, this vehicle appears a size larger, radiating a dominating aura on the road. Automotive enthusiast MrPallindrome, who captured the latest spy shots, highlighted several notable design elements:
- Flat Bonnet and Fascia: Giving it a rugged and assertive front end.
- Upright Silhouette: Contributing to its strong, SUV-like stance.
- Strong Shoulders: Emphasizing its robust build.
- Neatly Laid-out Reflector LED Setup: Modern and distinctive lighting.
- Inverted L-shaped LED DRLs: A signature design cue.
- Clamshell Bonnet: Adding to its premium feel.
- Rugged and Muscular Body Cladding & Roof Rails: Enhancing its adventure-ready aesthetics.
Class-Leading Tyres and Features
One of the most surprising revelations from the spy shots is the SUV’s tyre size. It sports 225-section tyres wrapped on 18-inch alloy wheels. This is a significant upgrade compared to most rivals in the segment, which typically come with 17-inch wheels and 215-section tyres, or even 18-inch wheels with narrower 215-section tyres (like the Tata Curvv). The fatter and taller JK Ranger HP tyres are expected to offer superior grip and a more imposing stance.
Platform, Powertrains, and Launch Timeline
The upcoming Nissan compact SUV is highly likely to share its platform with the new Renault Duster, indicating a focus on robust engineering and shared development to achieve competitive pricing. Both SUVs are expected to be loaded “to the gills” with features and equipment, utilizing as many localized components as possible.
While powertrains for the Indian market are yet to be finalized, hybrid options are definitely on the cards, aligning with the industry’s shift towards more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly solutions. There is also a strong wish from enthusiasts for AWD (All-Wheel Drive) capabilities to be offered, at least as an option, to enhance its off-road credentials.
Nissan might revive the globally recognized Kicks nameplate for this SUV, leveraging its existing brand recognition. Although the exact launch timeline remains unconfirmed, industry whispers suggest a 2026 launch.
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