If you’ve been eyeing the Nissan Magnite but wished it could be kinder to your wallet at the fuel pump, your prayers have been answered. The Japanese automaker has rolled out a CNG retrofit option for its popular compact SUV, starting at ₹6.89 lakh (ex-showroom). This isn’t just another variant launch – it’s Nissan’s smart move to tap into India’s growing appetite for alternative fuel vehicles.
What’s Different Here?
Unlike traditional CNG variants that come straight from the factory, the Magnite CNG takes a different route. You can walk into any Nissan dealership and opt for a government-approved CNG kit that gets fitted at authorized centers. Think of it as giving your regular petrol Magnite a green makeover after purchase. The retrofit costs ₹79,999 extra but for many Indian families that’s a small price to pay for long-term fuel savings.
Engine and Performance
The CNG system works only with the 1.0-liter naturally aspirated three-cylinder petrol engine, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Nissan hasn’t released official power and efficiency figures yet but CNG conversions usually see a slight dip in performance compared to their petrol counterparts. However what you lose in power you more than make up for in running costs.
The beauty of this setup is its dual-fuel capability. You can switch between petrol and CNG as per availability and your driving needs. City commuting becomes super economical with CNG, while the petrol option ensures you’re never stranded if CNG stations are scarce in your area.
Availability and Regional Coverage
Here’s where things get interesting. The retrofit isn’t available everywhere just yet. Nissan has chosen seven states where government-approved CNG fitment centers are operational:
- Uttar Pradesh
- Delhi-NCR
- Maharashtra
- Gujarat
- Kerala
- Haryana
- Karnataka
This is for major cities and regions where CNG infrastructure is well developed. If you are in these states, getting your Magnite converted is easy. For others, it might be worth waiting as Nissan will likely expand this network based on the initial response.
Design and Features Remain Unchanged
The good news is that getting CNG doesn’t mean you compromise on the Magnite. You still get the same bold, SUV-like stance that made it popular in the first place. The 12 color options are still available, so personalization isn’t an issue.
Feature-wise, the Magnite still punches above its weight. You get practical additions like a sunroof for that premium feel, automatic climate control to beat the Indian heat, wireless charging for your smartphone and push-button start-stop for convenience. These features make daily driving more comfortable whether you are running on petrol or CNG.
Specifications Table
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.0L Naturally Aspirated 3-Cylinder Petrol |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Fuel Type | Petrol + CNG (Dual Fuel) |
| CNG Kit Cost | ₹79,999 (Additional) |
| Starting Price | ₹6.89 Lakh (Ex-showroom) |
| Color Options | 12 Available |
| Availability | 7 States (Government Approved Centers) |
The Economics Make Sense
Let’s talk numbers that matter to your pocket. With CNG prices being significantly lower than petrol across India, the Magnite CNG can cut your fuel expenses by almost half. For someone driving 1000 km a month, the savings can easily offset the retrofit cost in 2 years. After that it’s pure savings flowing into your bank account rather than the fuel tank.
The timing couldn’t be better either. With petrol prices showing no signs of dropping and environmental consciousness rising, alternative fuel vehicles are becoming mainstream rather than niche choices.
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FAQs About Nissan Magnite CNG
What is the total cost of Nissan Magnite CNG?
The base variant starts at ₹6.89 lakh, plus ₹79,999 for the CNG retrofit kit, so total comes out to be approximately ₹7.69 lakh (ex-showroom).
Can I get the CNG kit fitted anywhere in India?
Currently the retrofit is available only in 7 states: UP, Delhi-NCR, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala, Haryana and Karnataka at government approved centers.
Will the CNG conversion affect my vehicle warranty?
Since it’s a Nissan approved retrofit done at authorized centers, your vehicle warranty should remain intact. But confirm this with your dealer before proceeding.
How does CNG affect the Magnite’s boot space?
The CNG tank takes up some boot space but the exact reduction in cargo capacity hasn’t been specified by Nissan yet.Can I switch between petrol and CNG while driving? Yes, the dual fuel system allows you to switch between petrol and CNG as per your need, giving you flexibility based on fuel availability and driving conditions.
Conclusion
The Nissan Magnite CNG is a thoughtful way to make compact SUVs more affordable and economical for Indian buyers. It may not be the most powerful in its segment but it offers something many others don’t – long term savings without compromising on the SUV experience.
If you are in one of the 7 states and your daily driving involves significant city commuting, the Magnite CNG is worth a serious look. It’s not just about saving fuel, it’s about making a practical choice that fits your budget and India’s push towards cleaner mobility solutions.
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