Sub-compact SUVs are really just buffed-up hatchbacks, but they come with all the perks, too. They are practical, compact, and often more powerful than a hatchback. This calls for a Toyota Raize vs. Nissan Magnite battle to see which of these Japanese subcompact crossovers deserves a spot in your garage.
Read this comparison to the end as we compare these cars’ prices, performance, interiors, safety, and driver-assistance features. This will help you make an informed decision about whether to buy the Toyota Raize or the Nissan Magnite.
But before we dive in deep, let’s meet the contenders first:
Meet the Contenders
Toyota Raize
The Toyota Raize debuted in 2019 as a compact crossover developed in collaboration with Daihatsu. It belongs to the sub‑compact or B‑segment crossover category, popular for city driving. People are drawn to the Raize because of its compact size, stylish design, and efficient use of interior space.
It offers the benefits of an SUV, like higher ground clearance and rugged looks, while still being easy to maneuver in urban areas. The Raize quickly gained popularity in markets like Japan, where it ranked among the top-selling cars in its category shortly after launch.
Toyota Raize Price in the UAE
The 2025 Toyota Raize price in the UAE is AED 66,900.
Nissan Magnite
The Nissan Magnite was introduced in 2020 as a small, budget-friendly crossover SUV. It belongs to the sub‑compact SUV category, offering a perfect balance between affordability and practicality. The Magnite quickly became popular for its bold design, spacious cabin, and feature-rich interior, all at an attractive price point.
It’s especially favored for being a compact yet capable option for those seeking a high driving position without the larger size of traditional SUVs. The Magnite received positive reviews for its performance and value, earning accolades as one of the most competitive vehicles in the affordable crossover market.
Nissan Magnite Price in the UAE
The 2025 Nissan Magnite price in the UAE is AED 59,900.
Performance Comparison
Let’s discuss the performance of these B-segment SUVs:
| Toyota Raize | Specs | Nissan Magnite |
| 3-cylinder | Engine | 3-cylinder |
| Turbocharged | Forced Induction | Turbocharged |
| 1000cc | Displacement | 999cc |
| CVT | Transmission | CVT |
| FWD | Drivetrain | FWD |
| 97 hp | Power | 98 hp |
| 140 Nm | Torque | 152 Nm |
| 11.0 seconds | 0-100 km/h | 11.5 seconds |
| 20.6 km/L | Fuel Economy | 19.9 km/l |
| 1680 kg | Weight | 1486 kg |
Takeaways:
The Nissan Magnite is slightly more powerful and considerably lighter than the Toyota Raize. However, the Raize offers somewhat better fuel economy in real-world driving. In terms of performance, both cars are more or less the same.
Cabin Comfort
Let’s talk about the interior and comfort of these JDM SUVs:
| Toyota Raize | Specs | Nissan Magnite |
| 5 | No. of seats | 5 |
| Fabric seats with red piping | Seat Material | Premium Mode Leatherette Quilted Seats with Heat Guard Tech |
| Unavailable | Paddle Shifters | Unavailable |
| Manual Air Conditioning | Climate Control | Automatic Air Conditioning with PM2.5 Cabin Air Filter + Plasma Cluster Ionizer |
| 8″ Central Multimedia Screen | Multimedia | 7” TFT Instrument Cluster + 8” Touchscreen |
| Standard | Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | Standard |
| Unavailable | Wireless charging | Standard |
| Unavailable | Ambient Lighting | Continuous multi-color ambient light |
| Unavailable | Sunroof | Unavailable |
| 4-speaker sound system | Sound System | 6-speaker sound system |
| Manually Adjustable seats | Seat Functions | Manually Adjustable seats |
| 369 litres | Boot Capacity | 336 litres |
Takeaways:
The Toyota Raize offers more boot space, but overall, the Magnite outperforms it in the cabin. Despite being more expensive than the Magnite, the Raize only offers fabric seats, manual air conditioning, and a single 8” screen, no ambient lighting or wireless charging.
This Toyota Raize vs. Nissan Magnite comparison is looking pretty biased now.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Now, we will discuss the safety and driver assistance technology for these vehicles:
| Toyota Raize | Specs | Nissan Magnite |
| 6 airbags | Airbags | 6 airbags |
| Standard | Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) | Standard |
| Standard | Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) | Standard |
| Unavailable | Automated Emergency Braking (AEB) | Unavailable |
| Unavailable | Cruise Control | Available |
| Standard | ISOFIX | Standard |
| Standard | Electronic Power Steering (EPS) | Standard |
| Unavailable | Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) | Unavailable |
| Unavailable | Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) | Unavailable |
| Standard | Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) | Standard |
| Standard | Hill Start Assist (HSA) | Standard |
| Standard | Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) | Standard |
| Standard | Traction Control (TRC) | Standard |
| Unavailable | Heads-Up Display (HUD) | Unavailable |
| Unavailable | Lane Departure Assist | Available |
| Unavailable | Lane Change Assist | Available |
| Unavailable | 360 Cameras | Standard |
| Standard | Parking Sensors | Standard |
Takeaways:
In terms of safety and driver assistance features, the Nissan Magnite comes out on top. Toyota didn’t even offer cruise control in the Raize, which is a major downgrade. The Nissan Magnite appears to lead in safety and driver-assistance features.
Toyota Raize vs. Nissan Magnite: Editor’s POV
It seems like the Toyota Raize failed to justify its AED 7,000 price difference. Despite being more expensive than the Nissan Magnite, the Raize offers less value overall. The Magnite, on the other hand, offers remarkable value for its price.
Nissan Magnite’s interior offers more than one would expect, including premium quilted leather seats, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and dual displays. Toyota stays true to its heritage with an analog speedometer and an 8” multimedia display.
The only thing the Raize seems to offer more of is its resale value. Being a Toyota, the Raize is most likely to hold and maintain its value in the long run, even if that means cutting down a lot of features.
- Buy the Toyota Raize if you want a reliable daily driver, a practical crossover that holds its value in the long run. It’s not the fanciest sub-compact crossovers or SUVs out there, but it gets the job done.
- Buy the Nissan Magnite if you want the most value for your money, a comfy and stylish interior loaded with features, and a lower price tag.
Conclusion
This Toyota Raize vs Nissan Magnite comparison reveals a clear winner for value-conscious buyers seeking premium features. The Nissan Magnite delivers exceptional value at a lower price point. Meanwhile, the Toyota Raize banks on brand heritage and long-term reliability.
Your choice ultimately depends on priorities: immediate comfort and technology versus potential resale strength. Both crossovers excel at urban mobility and practicality. However, Magnite’s feature-rich cabin makes a compelling argument against paying more for less.
Consider whether brand loyalty justifies sacrificing modern conveniences in your daily commute. This concludes our Toyota Raize vs Nissan Magnite debate. Which one of these Japanese crossovers appeals to you the most? Let us know in the comments below. Keep following the Arabwheels Blog for more content like this.