Nissan Kicks e-POWER

Inside, the Nissan Kicks e-POWER showcases a minimalistic cabin layout that looks and feels premium for its price point. It has zero gravity seats that provide just the right level of cushioning for all passengers. Seats of the top variant come with genuine leather upholstery with double stitching for a more expensive feel, while the lower trims’ come with fabric upholstery with single stitching. Standard to all variants is a black synthetic leather dashboard with grey stitching as well as a center console armrest with black leather padding and a storage box. That said, its cabin features a right balance of hard plastics and soft-touch materials. Its rear space, however, could still be improved moving forward.

Aside from these, its cockpit provides the driver with a 7-inch color TFT display meter with a drive computer display, allowing him or her to accurately monitor one’s current driving conditions. Drivers of the top and mid variants have access to a leather-wrapped steering wheel with manual tilt and telescopic adjustment features, while drivers of the base variant get the urethane-wrapped version. All variants come with a premium-looking electronic gear selector with illumination that offers a satisfying shifting experience. 

Meanwhile, for entertainment and information accessibility, this car comes with an 8-inch advanced touchscreen display audio that has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for higher trims, as well as standard Bluetooth, USB, and AUX. Its infotainment display is linked to a 6-speaker audio system for the top variant and a 4-speaker audio system for the mid and lower variants. You also get two Type-A USB ports (back of the console), four bottle/cup holders (2 on the front center console and 2 on the door panel), and a 12V power socket. With this in mind, this car’s cabin layout offers functionality and practicality for everyday use.

The Nissan Kicks e-POWER features a smart crossover design language that is not too hypermodern or dated. It has a unique look that exudes elegance and a hint of sportiness on the road. At the front, it sports a black double V-motion grille, which showcases Nissan’s modern styling. Its facade is illuminated by full-LED headlights and LED DRLs. Its headlights have follow-me-home and auto hazard light features (also with an auto on and off function for the top variant). The top variant, VL, also comes with LED foglights for more visibility, especially at night. 

On the sides, its two-toned silhouette is very evident. It has body-colored side mirrors with turn signal lights and body-colored door handles with an i-Key Switch, while black plastic side claddings on its lower half. Meanwhile, trailing behind this vehicle, you will notice its LED signature light tail lamps. Between these tail lamps is a bar with a continuous strip design, which does not emit light and is for additional styling purposes only. Additionally, it has body-colored front and rear bumpers with a silver under garnish.

The Nissan Kicks e-POWER measures 4,300 mm in length, 1,760 mm in width, and 1,615 mm in height. It has a 2,620 mm wheelbase and a 180 mm ground clearance. This subcompact SUV runs on a set of 17-inch alloy wheels.

The Nissan Kicks e-POWER line utilizes a Strut Type Suspension at the front and a Torsion Beam with Stabilizer at the rear. In general, it offers a planted and relatively stable ride. However, there are tendencies when its maneuvering can become a little too stiff when hitting turns or corners at high speeds, leading to noticeable body rolls and a less engaging driving experience. But, overall, this car runs quite nimbly and smoothly, consequently providing all passengers with a comfortable and relaxed ride.

The Nissan Kicks line is powered by the brand’s e-POWER which combines an AC Synchronous Motor (EM47), producing a maximum power output of 136 PS and a maximum torque of 280 Nm, with a 1.2L, 3-Cylinder, DOHC 12-Valve, CVTC gasoline engine that acts as a power generator of the electric motor’s battery. The electric motor has a lithium-ion battery that has a capacity of 2.13 kWh. All variants run on an automatic single-speed transmission system with a gear reduction feature. This battery electric vehicle (BEV) also comes with Eco and Sport drive modes.

This car can run quickly in the city and on the highway courtesy of its powertrain’s great torque delivery. It runs smoothly (and without turbo lags) like a full-electric vehicle. In addition, this BEV also boasts impressive fuel-efficiency, making it a practical daily vehicle in the city. Its NVH suppression system is also pretty decent, leading to a quiet and peaceful riding experience inside. Overall, it is just an enjoyable cruiser in the city. 

Safety-wise, the top-of-the-line variant is equipped with the full set of Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility System. This includes an intelligent around view monitor with a moving object detection feature, forward collision warning, emergency braking, driver attention alert, hill start assist, and an e-pedal step that is activated on the Eco and Sport drive modes. In contrast, the mid variant, also has everything except the intelligent around view monitor, while the base variant only has a hill start assist and an e-pedal step. 

In terms of braking, this car utilizes ventilated discs at the front and regular discs at the rear. Its setup is protected by an anti-lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution, and a brake assist.

For its price point, the Nissan Kicks e-POWER is very well-packed and practical for everyday city driving. It has the right amount of competitiveness within its segment, which explains why we frequently see this vehicle on the road.