With the launch of the Nissan Gravite at an introductory price of Rs 5.65 lakh (ex-showroom), the obvious question is whether it will eat into the sales of the Renault Triber, the very product that created the sub-4 metre, three-row MPV space in India.
Addressing this during an interaction with Auto Today at Gravite’s launch, Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, dismissed concerns of direct cannibalisation.
“This segment is growing with every entry. And this is growing because it’s growing in volumes from neighbouring segments. There’s a very large consumer set which is looking at duality of purpose, 7 seats in the car, modularity in the car. Therefore, when we bring in this vehicle, we’re going to add volumes to the segment, and that’s how we’re looking at it.”
Growing the pie, not slicing it?
Vatsa’s argument hinges on expansion rather than substitution. According to Nissan, the compact three-row segment is drawing buyers not just from within, but also from adjacent hatchback and entry-level SUV categories. The appeal lies in flexibility, the ability to seat seven when needed, while retaining the footprint and running costs of a small car.
The Gravite is built on the same underpinnings as the Triber and is manufactured at the Renault-Nissan Alliance plant in Chennai. However, Nissan has attempted to differentiate its offering through design, feature packaging and positioning.
What sets the Gravite apart?
Visually, the Gravite adopts Nissan’s global design cues, including a Piano Black 2D grille, C-shaped LED lighting signatures and more sculpted bodywork. It also gets unique branding elements and five colour options, including Forest Green and Storm White.
Inside, Nissan is banking heavily on modularity and space. The third-row seats are removable, enabling multiple configurations:
- 84 litres (7-seater)
- 320 litres (6-seater)
- 625 litres (5-seater)
The cabin features a dual-tone theme, quilted upholstery, sliding and reclining second-row seats, and what Nissan claims are best-in-class storage solutions, including cooled compartments and multiple cubby holes. A tropicalised air-conditioning system with dedicated third-row vents further strengthens its family-focused pitch.
On the tech front, the Gravite gets an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, cruise control, wireless charging and rain-sensing wipers.
Safety and mechanicals
Safety is another pillar of Nissan’s positioning. The Gravite comes with over 30 standard safety features, including six airbags, ESC, traction control, hill-start assist, TPMS and ISOFIX mounts.
Powering the MPV is a 1.0-litre naturally aspirated three-cylinder petrol engine producing 72PS and 96Nm, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AMT. Fuel efficiency stands at 19.3 kmpl (MT) and 19.6 kmpl (AMT). As expected in this price bracket, there is no turbo-petrol option.
Price strategy and positioning
With prices ranging from Rs 5.65 lakh to Rs 8.49 lakh (ex-showroom), the Gravite sits squarely against the Triber. Nissan is also offering a limited-period Launch Edition with add-ons such as JBL speakers, dual dash cams and cosmetic enhancements.
Whether the strategy translates into genuine segment growth or internal competition within the Alliance portfolio remains to be seen. For now, Nissan’s official stance is clear: the Gravite is here to expand the segment.
