Nissan will introduce the Kicks crossover in the ASEAN markets in the coming months. The model to be launched will also get a mid-cycle update that’ll make it to other global markets as well. We reported this development back in February, and now a first image of the updated Kicks, possibly seen in Thailand where the model will be unveiled first, has released online.
The Nissan Kicks (Model code: P15) has been on sale since 2016 in international markets. With this update, the Kicks will be sold in more markets like Japan, where it wasn’t available before.
The 2020 Kicks gets slightly more angular looks, similar to the newer Nissan crossovers and the Ariya crossover concept. The headlamps are less rounded and the V-Motion grille is larger and merges with the bumper. Also new will be LED lighting and the alloy wheel design.
On the inside, the updated Kicks will make use of better quality materials and get an updated infotainment system. Under the hood, Nissan will equip the Kicks facelift with its e-Power tech, similar to the one seen on the Nissan Note premium hatchback. Powering the crossover is a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder HR12DE petrol engine coupled to a 1.5kWh battery pack making a combined 129hp. In this system, the engine is used as a power generator for the batteries and the wheels are driven by an electric motor. This setup is understood to help Nissan achieve crucial fuel efficiency and CO2 figures that are required to be met in some international markets, including Thailand.
The Nissan Kicks sold abroad is based on the V-platform that underpins many other models from the carmaker. It is also different from the India-spec Kicks which shares its M0 platform with the Renault Captur and Duster. The Nissan Kicks for India is set to get a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine that’ll make around 150hp, and a few cosmetic updates as well.
Nissan will also bring an all-new compact SUV to India this year.
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