Since its introduction to South African shores, the Nissan Magnite has proved a popular offering from the local arm of the Japanese automaker. However, there’s no looking past some of the rivals it faces in the ever-competitive more budget-oriented, compact-crossover segment.
For example, the Magnite goes up against the commendable Kia Sonet — which is arguably one of the best small crossover money can currently buy, especially the turbocharged model — and the Hyundai Venue. Of course, then there’s also a range of exemplary, yet pocket-friendly products from Suzuki.
So, to bolster its Magnite portfolio, which already comprised 11 variants, Nissan SA has introduced a box-fresh derivative. Indeed, if one of the existing models weren’t exactly what you wanted, you now have the option of another one. Meet the Magnite Kuro.
But how does the newcomer differ from its Magnite stablemates? Well, not by that much. “Kuro” is derived from the Japanese word for “black”. So, in short, the Magnite Kuro features a host of black trim elements, outside and in. For example, the roof is finished in black, as is the cabin.
However, bar black, customers do have the choice of specifying one of three other available exterior body hues. These include white, silver, and red.
“Having made our name in SA with powerhouse vehicles like the Navara, we are aiming to increase our product range across the country, so we can offer even better driving experiences for more diverse markets. The Magnite Kuro’s understated sophistication, technological advances, and overall aesthetic are perfect for the driver who wants to stand out,” said Stefan Haasbroek, Marketing Director of Nissan Africa.
According to the firm, “The Magnite Kuro is a testament to Nissan’s spirit of relentless innovation and Japanese engineering, offering South Africans a range of automotive solutions without compromising on safety and comfort.”
Among many other standard-fitment items, the Magnite Kuro features touchscreen infotainment, replete with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto screen mirroring, wireless smartphone charging, and a surround-view camera system.
Kuro trim is available with only one engine option, a 1.0-litre turbo-triple producing 74 kW and 160 Nm of torque. Two transmissions are available, a five-speed manual and Nissan’s X-Tronic CVT unit. Equipped with the former and latter, the petrol motor sips a claimed 5.3 L/100 km and 6.0 L/100 km, respectively.
The manual Magnite Kuro is priced at R323 200, while the CVT-equipped model will set you back R351 800. A three-year/30 000 km service plan is included, as is a six-year/150 000 km warranty.
