Chennai, Jan 4 (IANS): Carmaker Nissan Motor India Pvt Ltd will soon start exporting its new compact sports utility vehicle 'Magnite' to Indonesia and South Africa, said a top company official.

He also said in the domestic market it has confirmed 32,800 booking for Magnite out of over 1.20 lakh enquiries.

"Our priority for Magnite will be the Indian market. The first two countries to which the model would be exported are Indonesia and South Africa," Rakesh Srivastava, Managing Director, told reporters on Monday.

He said Nissan Motor-Renult joint venture car plant near here will start third shift operations by February as Magnite has got a good market response.

The Magnite is Nissan's first sub-4 metre SUV, a segment which is now gaining ground. The car is competing against Kia Motor's Sonet, Hyundai Motor's Venue and others.

Nissan Motor sells its cars under two brands in India - Nissan and Datsun.

Srivastava said the sales volume of Datsun models are significant and the brand will be continued in India.