The Indian automobile industry has seen rapid growth over the last decade. With rising disposable incomes, many middle-class families are now looking to upgrade from hatchbacks to more spacious sedans and SUVs. The 7-seater segment in particular is seeing strong demand as buyers look for vehicles that can accommodate joint families comfortably. Sensing an opportunity, Nissan is now planning to enter this space with an all-new 7-seater offering tailor-made for Indian buyers.
Why A 7-Seater Makes Sense For Nissan
For Nissan, a new 7-seater model will perfectly complement its existing portfolio comprising the Magnite, Kicks and Sunny. The Japanese auto giant has been struggling to make a mark in India’s competitive car market. By entering the 7-seater segment, Nissan hopes to significantly expand its appeal amongst family buyers.
Given its expertise in designing spacious and comfortable interiors, a 7-seater vehicle plays to Nissan’s inherent strengths. The SUV body style that’s growing popular also gels well with Nissan’s focus on bringing bold and stylish models. The new 7-seater will give Nissan a strong contender against category leaders like the Toyota Innova Crysta and Mahindra Marazzo.
What We Know About The Upcoming Nissan 7-Seater
While Nissan has not officially confirmed specifics, reports indicate the new 7-seater is being jointly developed with alliance partner Renault. Codenamed B0, the vehicle is expected to be based on the same CMF-A+ platform as the Renault Triber.
Body Style
The new model will in all likelihood be an SUV. The chunky proportions and high seating position of an SUV appeal greatly to Indian buyers nowadays.
Dimensions
Expect a sub-4 meter length similar to the Triber. This will help keep prices and taxes lower.
Seating Layout
A flexible 2+3+2 seating configuration akin to the Triber maximizes interior space within the compact footprint.
Exterior Design
Design will carry Nissan’s bold styling cues as seen on the Magnite. Distinct front and rear fascias will differentiate it from the Triber.
Interior Design & Features
A modern dashboard housing a large touchscreen infotainment system will be implemented. Advanced features like a 360-degree camera, push button start, automatic climate control, and connected tech are also expected.
Powertrain
The new 7-seater will get the same 1.0-litre petrol and 1.0-litre turbo petrol motors as the Triber. The engines deliver 72hp/96Nm and 100hp/160Nm of output respectively. Gearbox options will include 5-speed manual and 5-speed AMT units.
Launch Timeframe
With testing already underway, Nissan could launch the new model sometime in late 2023 or early 2024.
How Nissan Can Price The Upcoming 7-Seater Competitively
Aggressive pricing will be key if Nissan aims to make a splash in the 7-seater space dominated by Toyota and Mahindra. Just like the Magnite, Nissan needs to target a starting price of around ₹7 lakhs for the new model. This will make it extremely competitive against rivals that are priced from ₹8 lakhs onwards.
Here are some strategies Nissan can adopt for competitive pricing:
- Local manufacturing to control costs
- High level of parts sharing with alliance partner Renault
- Limited introductory variants focusing on value
- Offering lower-powered engine on base variants
- Providing essential safety features as standard
- Optional packages for advanced gadgets/accessories
- Minimal markup over Triber costs due to badge differentiation
Key Reasons The Nissan 7-Seater Will Appeal To Indian Buyers
There are several factors that will make the upcoming Nissan 7-seater a very compelling choice, especially for large families:
- Practical 3-row layout providing seating for 7
- SUV styling that has immense road presence
- Versatile cabin with flexible seat folding
- Good interior space within compact exterior footprint
- Proven petrol powertrains offering peppy performance
- Advanced creature comforts and safety technologies
- Promises of Nissan’s renowned reliability and durability
- Extensive sales and service support across India
- Value pricing that enhances affordability
Final Thoughts
The launch of an all-new 7-seater model seems like an excellent move by Nissan to boost its fortunes in India. By combining practicality, style and value, the new SUV can hit the sweet spot for many Indian buyers. The Renault-Nissan alliance’s expertise in designing spacious interiors will be a strong advantage. Competitive pricing below ₹10 lakhs and local manufacturing can make it a formidable alternative to market leaders. Riding on the success of the Magnite, the upcoming 7-seater could just turn out to be Nissan’s next big hit in India.