Nissan Kicks e-Power

The cabin layout of the Nissan Kicks e-Power has remained unchanged over the pre-facelifted version, which makes this space look a bit dated now. However, this cabin impresses with its tight fit and finish levels. This facelifted version also got a new full-TFT instrument console with a hybrid-specific information display behind the three-spoke multi-functional steering wheel.

While the higher-spec VLT variant of the Nissan Kicks e-Power has dual-tone black and mocha brown leather upholstery, the lower-spec VL variant has an all-black leatherette upholstery and is also available with black fabric upholstery with blue stitching. The middle layer of the dashboard feels premium with the soft touch finish. 

With rounded AC vents having gloss black surrounds on the corners, the dashboard of the Nissan Kicks e-Power has an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the middle. The lower centre console features a round-edged horizontal control panel for automatic climate control switches. 

While the Nissan Kicks e-Power is decently equipped with features like driver seat height adjustment, a 6-speaker audio system, an engine push start-stop button, and small storage bins and cup holders, we do expect more from an SUV of this size and price.

Available in the facelifted version of the first-generation model, the Nissan Kicks e-Power has mild tweaks to its front and rear profiles which make it look sportier and more aggressive than the pre-facelift version. However, the base design is almost a decade old now, which makes it look dated, especially in front of its fresher rivals.

The large trapezoidal grille of the Nissan Kicks e-Power has segmented horizontal inserts finished in chrome while having blacked-out sides. This entire fascia has angular all-LED headlamps with boomerang-shaped LED DRLs in their inner edges. The muscular-looking front bumper has rounded fog lamps within blacked-out trapezoidal housings. 

The side profile of the Nissan Kicks e-Power has flared wheel arches and a raised window waistline, which make it look athletic despite all the bulk it has. With 17-inch machined alloy wheels, a blacked-out C-pillar, and silver roof rails, the Kicks e-Power sets up a style statement. The muscular-looking boot lid of the SUV is adorned with boomerang-shaped large LED combination tail lamps on the sides, with the boot lid having a hexagonal-shaped license plate housing in the middle. 

The Nissan Kicks e-Power’s suspension setup is a combination of independent Macpherson struts a stabilizer at the front and a torsion beam at the rear. Engineered to deliver a comfortable ride quality, the stabiliser bar also reduces the body roll and ensures enhanced stability at high-speed cornering. 

The e-power hybrid powertrain of the Nissan Kicks hybrid is a combination of a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, a front-mounted electric motor, and a 2.06kWh lithium-ion battery. While the engine produces 82 PS of maximum power and 103 Nm of maximum torque, the electric motor generates 129 PS of power and 280 Nm of torque. Paired with an e-CVT, this hybrid powertrain delivers an impressive fuel efficiency of 21.7 kmpl. 

Besides essentials like six airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, reverse parking sensors, vehicle dynamic control with traction control, and hill start assist, the Kicks e-Power also features Nissan Intelligent Mobility suite of ADAS features. This package has automatic emergency braking with intelligent forward collision warning, intelligent trace control, intelligent driver alertness, around view monitor with moving object detection, intelligent rearview mirror, blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert, and intelligent cruise control. 

Over the years, the Nissan Kicks has lost its charm with newer, better-equipped alternatives storming the market, which have made it appear dated now. However, when it comes to core aspects like practicality, space, comfort, and efficiency, the Nissan Kicks is still a very much recommendable SUV.