Everything you need to know about the Nissan Kicks
As we have reported, Nissan plans to launch the Nissan Kicks crossover in India by early 2019. Nissan has delayed the launch of the Kicks crossover, initially expected sometime in 2018, to take advantage of the company's efforts on localisation.
Launched during the Rio Olympics in 2016, the Nissan Kicks is the brand's low-cost alternative to its European models like the Nissan Qashqai and Juke crossovers. The SUV has been designed keeping in mind developing markets in South America and Asia. The Kicks will be based on Renault-Nissan's low-cost B0 platform that underpins cars like the Renault Captur, Renault Duster and Nissan Terrano, unlike the more complex and consequently more expensive V-platform cars from Europe.
The Kicks is most likely to be offered with the tried and tested 1.5-litre K9K diesel motor as seen on other Nissan-Renault vehicles. This will likely be offered in the 110PS and 240Nm tune. However, the Kicks is also offered internationally with a 1.6-litre petrol motor which makes 114PS and 156Nm and a 2.0-litre petrol with 143PS and 195Nm. If equipped with these engines, the Kicks will be able to better compete with other cars in this segment like the Hyundai Creta, Jeep Compass and Mahindra XUV500. A CVT option is also offered in Brazil which also makes sense for the Indian market.
The Kicks also gets Nissan's latest design language. This means edgier styling with prominent haunches over the wheel wells and a strong character line along the shoulder. A prominent feature is the new grille design featuring a large chrome insert. The wider front and rear light units also add presence
The Kicks should be better equipped than the Terrano and also the Captur. Apart front the usual list of features available on these cars, the Kicks will get a new infotainment system compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Interior quality should take a step forward as well, with a more premium feel to the cab, new switchgear and a layout not seen on Nissan cars before.
Expect the Nissan Kicks to be priced at around Rs 14-lakh mark (ex-showroom).
Also see: Nissan Kicks v Hyundai Creta v Renault Captur v Maruti Suzuki S-Cross Comparison test Video