“The Magnite, especially in the new updated format, represents excellent value for money and is known as a highly reputable vehicle with very competitive running costs,” says Marius du Toit, Managing Director of the 4Wheels Motors Group, which has several Nissan dealerships in its portfolio.

Marius, who is also on the Nissan South Africa Advisory Board, says new, modern styling cues like the bright interior finish to mention one aspect, are precisely what new car buyers want and to attract a wide variety of customers.

“In its segment, all the models in their different price ranges are a hard act to follow as the looks, the specification level and value proposition are all class leading,” Marius tells Dealerfloor.

Other Nissan dealers Dealerfloor chatted to concur that the Magnite’s price advantage, like most vehicles build in India, is crucial for the local market. “Affordability connected to a decent spec level, low running costs and reliability take centre stage for the majority of new car buyers in the country,” says Pierre du Plessis, Dealer Principal at Algoa Nissan and winner of various categories in the annual Nissan Dealer of the Year awards.

“The updated version will most definitely draw even more attention to the nameplate and the Nissan brand. I believe the Magnite is the stepping stone for more and larger affordable crossovers and SUVs to come to our shores in the foreseeable future.

“Nissan has a strong name, good reputation and established dealer network in South Africa, which all bring peace of mind for customers buying a Magnite. Our customers are happy, and the feedback about the product is first-class,” Pierre tells us.

• The updated Nissan Magnite saw a new interior and exterior updated not only creating a sharper look but also more comfort on the inside. It boasts a robust exterior styling complemented by LED lights front and rear, alloy wheels and roof rails. Inside is a configurable TFT driver display, plus wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other new features (model specific) include the innovative remote engine start, a walkaway lock and approach unlock function, cooled glove box storage and an on-board air ioniser, which is ideal for motorists with allergies or respiratory conditions. It also now has six airbags across all variants. For parking, there is an Around View Monitor providing a bird’s-eye view of the car from four cameras.