Despite appearing similar to the global Kicks sold in markets such as South America and the United States, Nissan’s rival for the Ford EcoSport and Hyundai Creta swaps the Micra’s V-platform for the same B0 used by the Dacia/Renault Duster and its Indian offshoot, the Nissan Terrano.
The switch in platform means the Indian Kicks is longer, taller and wider than the global version, with an overall length of 4 384mm versus 4 295mm, wheelbase of 2 673 mm (2 610mm), height of 1 656mm (1 590mm) and width of 1 813mm (1 760mm).
While no images of the interior have emerged, reports are that it will be mostly unchanged from the global model (pictured below) bar the switch from left to right-hand drive, with notable items likely to be offered consisting of a seven-inch touchscreen display, around view monitor, the D-shaped multi-function steering wheel, two-tone roof, 17-inch alloy wheels, daytime running LEDs and up to six airbags.
Nissan also didn’t reveal the Kicks’ technical details, though expect it to come with its sibling’s 1.5-litre petrol that produces 77kW/142Nm instead of the mainstay 1.6, or the long serving 1.5 dCi that outputs 80kW/250Nm. A five-speed manual gearbox or CVT are due on the petrol, while the diesel will get a six-speed manual or six-speed Automated Manual. As with the global Kicks, the Indian version will be front-wheel drive only.
Final price and spec has yet to be confirmed, although it is anticipated that the Kicks will enter the market from around Rs 940 000 (R183 140). With a new Juke already in development, it remains speculative if this or the Kicks will become available in South Africa next year.
IMAGES from indianautosblog.com
