Taking It Easy

The Nissan Magnite has received a two-pedal automatic transmission variant for its naturally aspirated engine as well. We drive the new "EZ-Shift" model in Chennai

- Jim Gorde

AUTOMATIC CARS ARE FINDING HOMES AT a far greater rate today than a few years ago. With worsening traffic and road conditions, having an automatic transmission makes life easier while making for lesser engagement of the left foot while putting less pressure as well-on the leg and the driver it's attached to. It's no surprise then that automatics are fast becoming the favoured transmission type for urban daily drivers. I say "automatics" because there are many types-the popular ones are the traditional fluid-coupling torque-converter automatic transmission (AT), the dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT), the continuously variable transmission (CVT), and the automated manual transmission (AMT). Which brings me to the new Nissan Magnite EZ-Shift.

The new Magnite EZ-Shift brings a two-pedal automatic choice to the naturally aspirated engine model. The 1.0-litre three-pot, which was, until now, available only with a five-speed manual, now gets the EZ-Shift AMT as well. Furthermore, Nissan India will not offer just a pair of these variants, they will have them across the range; a total of five Magnite EZ-Shift variants will be offered from the entry XE to the top-of-the-line XV Premium Dual-tone we have here. Also, a big change is the introduction of the new blue paint finish with the contrasting black roof to the list of colour choices.