Nissan is launching the new Magnite Move in South Africa this January as the spiritual successor to the popular NP200 after the bakkie was discontinued in 2024.
The venerable NP200 ceased production in March 2024 after dominating the sales charts for some 16 years.
Nissan had a replacement in line; unfortunately, it is produced in Russia and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict rendered exports of the vehicle virtually impossible, hence, the carmaker had to shelve the plan.
Excess stock of the NP200 was built to continue satisfying demand after the assembly lines stopped, but it seems that the well is nearly dry.
Nissan thus had to come up with an alternative to the tiny workhorse while it works on finding a true successor, looking at its best-selling crossover for help.
Enter: the Magnite Move.
The new Magnite Move “will help the company fill the gap left by its extremely popular Nissan NP200 before a replacement for this pick-up arrives in the next two years,” Nissan told TopAuto.
“The model will be converted from a standard Nissan Magnite by Nissan South Africa.”
However, the spokesperson noted that the conversion to panel van spec will not be done in Rosslyn, where its Navaras are built. Where it will be done, they did not say.
The Move will be powered by a naturally aspirated, 1.0-litre engine producing 53kW, making it “one of the most frugal vehicles in its class,” claims Nissan.
Looking at other Magnite models with the same powertrain, buyers can expect a reading of around 5.9l/100km, possibly better, depending on how much weight has been saved with the removal of the backseats.
Nissan has provided little other info on the upcoming Move. Judging by the provided press photo, it seems to be wearing black steel wheels which are affordable to replace when damaged, in addition to rear window tint and mesh grilles for added safety and security.
Retail of the Magnite Move is planned to commence in January 2025. “Exact dates to be confirmed,” said the company.
A growing segment
Many automakers in the local market, not just Nissan, have noticed this gap in the tiny bakkie segment and accordingly took action by launching similar entries to the Magnite Move.
For example, Hyundai sells the Grand i10 Cargo and Venue Cargo, whereas its sister brand Kia has the Picanto Runner offer.
Likewise, Chery and Renault have gotten in on the action with their new Tiggo 4 Pro Panel Van and Kiger Express, respectively.
These are stripped-down versions of either crossovers or hatchbacks with no rear seats to allow for extra-large cargo holds with metal mesh window protection.
They are primarily pitched at small businesses and delivery companies as an alternative to once widely available small bakkies at lower prices than what a single cab might cost.
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