During the virtual unveiling of the Magnite CNG, Nissan India’s Managing Director, Saurabh Vatsa, addressed speculation regarding the company’s future in the Indian market, asserting that Nissan remains fully committed to India. Vatsa stated, “I am also happy to say that all our product plans are on track and well underway, and in fact, pre-production of our upcoming B-MPV and C-SUV has already begun at the Renault plant in Chennai.”
Upcoming Nissan Product Launches
Details on New 7-Seater SUV Arriving in 2027
Vatsa confirmed that the launch of the MPV, which is based on the Renault Triber, is scheduled for the first quarter of next year, while the C-SUV, which will be Nissan’s version of the upcoming Duster, is expected by mid-next year. In response to inquiries, he highlighted that the 7-seater variant of the SUV, set to debut in 2027, will be distinctly engineered as a proper 7-seater rather than just a plus-2 configuration.
In addition to these three new products, Nissan intends to invest further in the Magnite’s lifecycle, as the compact SUV is currently being exported to over 65 countries in both right-hand-drive and left-hand-drive configurations. Vatsa remarked, “Starting this April, both engines in the Magnite are now E20 compliant,” indicating ongoing development for this model.
Despite the X-Trail CBU not performing well in the market, Vatsa expressed that “multiple CBUs are also under active consideration.” He ruled out diesel models in the short term for locally planned vehicles but did not dismiss the possibilities of electric vehicles and hybrids, stating that “whether it’s hybrids, EVs, or CNG, we are studying it all.” More information will be provided regarding these plans in 2027, aligned with the new CAFE norms.
Nissan India Investments
Utilizing Investments for New Product Plans
Renault recently took full control of its Indian manufacturing JV with Nissan.
In reaffirming Nissan’s commitment to India, Vatsa asserted that reports about its exit are false, noting that the previously announced investment of Rs. 700 million has already begun supporting new product initiatives. Nissan India aims for a production target of 100,000 vehicles for the domestic market and an equivalent number for exports in the fiscal year 2026-27. Vatsa emphasized, “As you can see from our continued development of the Magnite and the new products planned, we are not pulling back from anything.”
Nissan India Plant Divestment
Impact on Products and Partnership
Although Nissan has pulled out of its manufacturing alliance with Renault, Vatsa clarified that this strategic decision is aimed at enhancing agility and growth for both partners. When questioned about potential impacts on product supply due to this change, Vatsa stated, “Not at all. We have a wonderful partnership and agreement with Renault. When we were in charge of the plant, there were no production supply problems for either partner, so why should there be any now?”
Nissan India Future Plans
Nissan’s immediate future is banking on three shared products with its partner Renault.
Despite challenges related to dealer viability, with Nissan having lost a few dealers, Vatsa noted that the company currently operates 159 outlets and is developing plans to bolster dealer viability and further expand Nissan’s network. Looking ahead, Nissan’s immediate strategy in India is notably clear, with both Nissan and Renault investing in the new Duster SUV to be produced locally, marking a positive trajectory for Nissan’s offerings in the market.
The success of these upcoming models will be crucial for Nissan’s long-term sustainability in India, especially given the competitive landscape in the segments they plan to enter.
