Compact SUVs watch out, Nissan’s new entrant is all set to shake things up in the segment. Named Magnite, the newest offering from Japan brings together the concepts of Kabuku, Sui and Inase – the coming together of three concepts – being a pioneer, being focused on a purpose and possessing a vibrant energy. Everything about the Magnite has been created keeping these three philosophies in mind – resulting in this stand-out design that speaks of strength, quality and sportiness.
The designers took a novel approach while coming up with this striking design. Unlike the traditional process of design, the Magnite took shape in the sculpting process rather than on a sketch board. This might explain the lack of boxy shapes and the presence of strong, muscular lines that dominate its design. This muscularity is a theme that can be seen all over the car and is clearly visible especially in the power bulges on the bonnet and the strong wheel arches that flow seamlessly into the door panels. The sense of power is also evident in the distinctly designed haunches and the claw shaped taillights. The entire design has a sense of power that has been achieved through flowing lines and an overall organic feel to the entire design.
The innovative design of the body lines also meant that the rest of the car had to follow suit. All other elements of the design had to be in sync with the three guiding principles that the design is based on.
To this end, the designers at Nissan made full use of the adaptability that LED lights offer to shape and create lighting elements that fit right into the SUV’s design philosophy. So, unlike other designs, rather than being a functional add-on in the design, the Magnite’s lighting elements have been designed as part of the SUV’s overall flowing, muscular structure.
The headlights follow the shut line of the bonnet and have been neatly integrated to blend well with the lines of the hexagonal grille and the lines of front bumper as well. All of which then neatly flow into the muscular haunches of the car. Even at the rear, the lines and the contrast colours all blend together to give a claw like appearance. The intricate design of the taillight cluster only adds to this sense of taut power.
One element that can be seen quite a bit throughout the design of the Magnite is the hexagon. From the prominent use of the shape in the grille and the ORVM covers, the hexagon also makes appearances inside the cabin in the form of AC vents, instrumentation and seat cover design, and has even been integrated into the headliner and the dashboard elements.
The dashboard, in fact, is one of the most striking design elements of the SUV. Contrasting colour palettes and geometric shapes mean there is no mistaking this interior for anything else. The cabin uses three different colours – red, chrome and black – to create an atmosphere that feels more dynamic and powerful than ever seen before. It is not just pleasing to look at, it gives the occupants a feeling of premium luxury and space.
That said, the Magnite is not just good to look at. The engineers at Nissan also made sure that their latest offering existed on the cutting edge of technology. Through an all-digital interfaces that uses two screens that blend seamlessly into the design of the dashboard – one to control all the infotainment and other technology that comes in the Magnite and another to give you all the information you will ever need about your SUV – the new Nissan lets you take full control of your driving experience.
All of these elements come together to create something that is truly Nissan. The Magnite strives to bring a sense of purpose while not losing out on aesthetic appeal. And it does this in a design that is not only pathbreaking, but also unique and universally appealing. No mean feat by any measure.
