The 999-cc, three-cylinder engine develops a peak 72 hp at 6,250 rpm with a maximum torque of 96 Nm at a decent 3,500 rpm. The EZ-Shift AMT can feel clunky if the right pedal is prodded hard as the onboard computer tries to betray its efficient tune to get a move on as fast as it can. However, be gentler and it’s far more rewarding. The engine idles rather silently with no perceived thrums or rattles, but step on it and it can get noisy. Sound insulation is just about adequate and the refinement bubble bursts after the revs go past 3,000 rpm.
The technique to getting the most out of the AMT—any AMT—is to get on the right pedal more lightly than not, gradually increase pressure and then lift off to bring about an up-shift. In fact, Nissan claim an efficiency of 19.70 km/litre for this new automated model. That said, it can feel a little lethargic getting from standstill off a dirt road and on to tarmac; as I would find out getting off our shoot excursion and back on to the scenic and appreciably less busy East Coast Road towards Mammalapuram. It’s not particularly heavy, at just about below a tonne.
The ride quality of the Nissan Magnite EZ-Shift, highway or not, is well-sorted. The suspension set-up is a simple and proven strut front and damped axle rear, but does a commendable job of keeping all wheels on ground. The ride is neither too firm nor too soft and it feels nicely calibrated for the variety of surfaces the country offers—from smooth tarmac to broken asphalt, dirt and, at times, loose gravel. The Magnite has no trouble staying in the intended trajectory. Furthermore, tight turns may require an additional spin of the steering wheel but the Magnite has an especially good turning circle. The brakes are discs at the front with drums employed at the rear. Their performance is better than adequate.
For what should be an additional Rs 55k more—as with its Alliance twin, the Renault Kiger—than its manual counterpart, the Nissan Magnite EZ-Shift feels like a sensible car. It isn’t for the performance-oriented folk and is best suited to being an urban runabout and, with its compact proportions, short overhangs and high 205-mm ground clearance, a great everyday car that can do everything without complaining. There is the more powerful Turbo version for those who want more power. And there are plenty of rivals, of course. There are some that are easy shifting, and some that are easier.
Need to Know – Nissan Magnite EZ-Shift
Price: Rs 6.55 lakh – 9.30 lakh (estimated, ex-showroom)
Engine: 999 cc, in-line three, petrol
Max Power: 72 hp @ 6,250 rpm
Max Torque: 96 Nm @ 3,500 rpm
Transmission: Five-speed, automated, front-wheel drive
Suspension: MacPherson strut front, damped axle rear
Weight: 950 kg (est)
Also read: Nissan GT-R R35 Track Drive Review
