India-spec Nissan Kicks: 5 things to know

After a long hiatus, Nissan is set to introduce an all-new product in India. The Kicks SUV is aiming to break into the tightly-contested mid-sized SUV segment currently ruled by the Hyundai Creta. The brand has not seen much success in our market, as its last SUV, the Terrano, was overshadowed by its sibling, the Renault Duster. However, the Kicks promises to be a well-rounded package and aims to change the Japanese manufacturer’s fortunes in India. Here are five things about the upcoming Nissan Kicks that you need to know:

Shares platform with the Renault Duster
The Kicks – in most other markets around the world – is based on the same platform as the Micra. However, this one inherits the Duster’s tough DNA and is based on an updated version of the M0-platform.This enables Nissan to keep prices in check, thanks to the heavy localisation of parts.

Shares engines with the Renault Captur
Along with its platform, the Kicks will also share its engines and transmissions with Renault models. Nissan’s latest SUV is powered by a 1.5-litre diesel engine that produces 110hp and 240Nm of torque while being mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. The petrol Kicks gets a 1.5-litre motor which puts out 106hp and 142Nm of torque and is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Both of these engines are likely to be equipped with automatic gearbox options in the future.

India-spec Kicks bigger than its international sibling
The India-spec Nissan Kicks retains almost all the cues present on the international model. The India-spec Kicks has several new features as well – like the redesigned front bumper with faux air-inlets above the fog lights and an aluminium skid plate – all of which are meant to add a dash of toughness to the Kicks' appearance. Size-wise, the India-spec Kicks is bigger than the international model. It measures in at 4,384mm, 89mm longer than the model sold abroad, and is also wider (1,813mm) and taller (1,656mm) with a longer wheelbase (2,673mm).

Unique interior layout for India
The India-spec Kicks is not only larger than the international model but also gets a revised dashboard design. The steering-wheel design is retained from the international model but the India-spec Kicks does not get a flat-bottom. Also, the instrument cluster for the Indian Kicks features an analogue tachometer and fuel-gauge meter with a digital speedometer in-between; whereas the international-spec model gets an analogue speedometer and tachometer with a multi-information display in the centre. Furthermore, the HVAC controls have a different layout, too. The India-spec Kicks does not get the monochrome display for the climate control seen on the international model. Even the AC vents have been repositioned from above the infotainment screen to either side of it.

Gets segment-first features
The Nissan Kicks features a few segment-firsts in its cabin. It gets a floating 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system which is larger than any of its rivals. The touchscreen also doubles as a display for another segment-first feature – the 360-degree surround-view camera. The Nissan Kicks is also the first SUV in its class to feature leather inserts on the dashboard.

Also see:

Nissan Kicks SUV image gallery

Nissan Kicks India review, test drive

2017 Renault Captur India review, test drive