Nissan launches refreshed Magnite, to be offered in both RHD & LHD markets

When Nissan released a teaser a few weeks ago for the 2024 Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), the automaker will apparently bring four vehicles. Based on the silhouettes of the vehicles they have yet to reveal, we could see the all-new Patrol, the electrified X-Trail e-Power, the sporty Z NISMO, and what we initially believed could be the Autech variant of the Kicks e-Power.

However, after studying one of the teaser photos, it looks like we might get the Magnite instead. Initially, we weren’t sure about the Nissan Magnite debuting in the Philippines since it used to be only available for right-hand drive (RHD) developing markets. Now, Nissan has officially revealed the facelifted Magnite for the 2025 model year, and it will be available for left-hand drive (LHD) markets.

Could we see 2025 Nissan Magnite debut at PIMS 2024? image

You read that statement correctly. Nissan confirmed this when they revealed the 2025 Magnite in India, where the crossover SUV is produced. Featuring a subtle refresh both inside and out, Nissan's smallest crossover SUV gets a more robust and high-tech appearance.

Beginning with the exterior updates first, the bolder-looking 2025 Magnite gets sleeker LED headlights with lightsaber-style turn signals. It also comes with eye-catching L-shaped LED daytime running lights which make it stand out both day & night. Also worth mentioning is the sportier-looking grille that comes with a honeycomb-style pattern and chrome surrounds.

Rounding up the exterior updates are the uprated skid plate, new dual-tone 16-inch alloy wheels, functional roof rails rated for 50kg capacity, and smoked LED taillights. As far as ground clearance is concerned, the Magnite is measured to have 205mm.

Could we see 2025 Nissan Magnite debut at PIMS 2024? image

Hop aboard and the 2025 Magnite gets a cozier cabin thanks to a new color palette. The seats, dashboard, and door trim are all finished in a unique brownish orange hue which gives it a more upmarket appearance. On the technology front, technophiles will be happy to know it comes with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.

Other available features present inside the 2025 Nissan Mangite include a walk-away lock, a plasma cluster air ionizer, a remote engine start, multi-color LED ambient lighting, a wireless charging pad, and the option to have an Arkamys or JBL sound system.

Could we see 2025 Nissan Magnite debut at PIMS 2024? image

Under the hood, the 2025 Nissan Magnite is available with two engine choices. The first one is the 1.0L turbocharged HRA0DET three-cylinder engine. It makes 100 PS with 160 Nm of torque and can be paired with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or an XTronic CVT that drives the front wheels. If those figures look familiar, that’s because it's the same engine that powers the Almera.

The other engine is a 1.0L naturally aspirated inline-three. It can be mated to either a 5-speed manual or an automated manual transmission (AMT) dubbed EZ-Shift. The engine makes a humble 72 PS with 96 Nm of torque.

Could we see 2025 Nissan Magnite debut at PIMS 2024? image

Should the 2025 Magnite actually make its debut at this year’s PIMS, it will serve as Nissan’s smallest (and perhaps most affordable) crossover SUV in the market, slotting below the Kicks e-Power. Combined with the fact that mini crossovers continue to grow in popularity and the refreshed Magnite will be offered in LHD markets, it’s not surprising this could be one of Nissan Philippines Inc.’s many surprises at PIMS 2024.

Would the Magnite be a popular crossover for Nissan Philippines? Let us know what you think.