India-bound Nissan Kicks has been unveiled in production form ahead of its launch in January 2019. The five-seat vehicle does not get any major cosmetic upgrades over the international-spec model which we drove in Dubai in September. The new model draws inspiration from the current generation Qashqai and the X-Trail. Here below are the top five highlights for the newly unveiled Nissan Kicks SUV –
Exterior
Nissan Kicks gets a floating roof design with blacked out pillars, a shark fin antennae and stylish roof rails for a sporty appeal. On the front, the SUV gets a V-motion grille, uniquely designed headlamps, fog lamps and signature LED DRLs. The rear section gets signature boomerang-shaped LED tail lamps. The SUV rides on large 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels and the sides feature door mounted ORVMs with turn indicators.
Dimensions and structural rigidity
The Kicks is reportedly built using GRAPHENE (Gravity-philic Energy Absorption) body structure. It is believed that the structure is capable of absorbing the impact energy thereby making it stronger, safer and durable on Indian roads. The SUV measures 4,384mm in length, 1,813mm in width, 1,656mm in height and has a wheelbase of 2,673mm. Although the interior has not been revealed, for now, the dimensions indicate that it might offer ample space for the occupants.
Engine
The upcoming Nissan Kicks is expected to be powered by the existing 1.5-litre petrol and diesel engine options from the Renault Duster. The 1,498cc petrol engine generates 105bhp of power at 5,600rpm and 142Nm of torque at 4,000rpm. The diesel version, on the other hand, is powered by a 1461cc engine in two states of tune – 85PS and 110PS. The 85PS diesel generates about 84bhp at 3750rpm and 200Nm of torque at 1900rpm. The 110PS variant generates 108bhp of power at 3900rpm and 248Nm of torque at 2250rpm. Along with the standard manual transmission, the petrol and the powerful diesel engine options are offered with optional automatic transmission options. It is to be ascertained if Nissan will offer a larger or smaller diesel engine option in the Kicks.
Interior
The Indian-spec model is expected to get an all-black interior theme along with an infotainment system in the centre and a three-spoke multi-function steering wheel. We also expect to see a 360-degree camera being offered among the rest of the features. The SUV is further expected to feature contrasting silver and chrome accents for the AC vents, steering wheel and the digital instrument cluster. The seven-inch touchscreen display will support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Price and competition
Prices for the Nissan Kicks will be announced early in January 2019. The SUV is expected to be priced between Rs 10 lakhs to Rs 14 lakhs and competes against the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Mahindra Scorpio, Honda BR-V and the recently launched Mahindra Marazzo.
