Nissan launched the Gravite in India as one of the only two compact MPVs in India, with introductory prices ranging between Rs 5.65 lakh and Rs 8.49 lakh (ex-showroom). It shares the CMF-A+ platform with the Renault Triber and comes with a decently loaded features suite and a naturally aspirated engine. We recently drove the Nissan Gravite to check how it fares in the real world. If you are keen on getting your hands on the Gravite, here are three reasons to consider it and one reason not to. Let us start with the pros:
Has a usable third row
The third-row bench can comfortably seat two regular-sized adults.
Considering its sub-4m dimensions, it is natural to assume that a 3-row car will offer little space for the last row passengers. The Nissan Gravite, however, is an exception to this as it can seat regular-sized adults with relative comfort, if the middle-row seats are slightly slid forward. This means that second- and third-row passengers have to negotiate for legroom to be comfortable.
Accessing the Gravite’s last row is also an easy affair, as the middle row tumbles at the pull of a lever. However, the proximity of the tailgate to the passengers’ heads feels disconcerting. Notably, the last row of seats can be completely removed if more luggage space is needed.
Offers a pliant ride quality
It feels stable at high speeds, but the light steering feel is a bummer.
To comfortably carry up to seven passengers and not collapse under stress, Nissan has offered the Gravite with a slightly stiff suspension setup. While it soaks up almost everything that our roads throw at it, some sharp jolts can be felt inside although it's not uncomfortable. High-speed stability is also commendable, considering it weighs less than a tonne (up to 993kg kerb weight).
Nissan offers it with a light steering wheel that makes it easier to perform tight manoeuvres and city drives. However, not much heft is added to the steering wheel as the speed increases, which takes away some confidence at triple-digit speeds.
Has an aggressive price tag
It is currently the most affordable 7-seater MPV offering in India.
Nissan has priced the Gravite between Rs 5.65 lakh and Rs 8.49 lakh (introductory), for the first 5,000 customers. This pricing undercuts its Renault Triber rival by Rs 11,000 at both the base and top end, while having a similar features suite.
Now, let’s take a look at where the Nissan Gravite could improve.
Feels underpowered, especially with seven passengers
The 1.0-litre naturally aspirated mill feels out of breath and lacks refinement.
The Nissan Gravite is offered with a 1.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 72hp and 96Nm, and is mated to either a 5-speed manual or AMT option. While this engine has enough juice to keep up with city traffic, it feels lacklustre out on the highways. High-speed overtakes require planning and one or two downshifts, which reveal the poor refinement, and a lot of noise translates inside the cabin. The manual transmission has a heavy clutch with a high bite point, which will take some time to get used to.
Prices are ex-showroom, India.