Unveiling the Kicks: In-Depth Specifications, Features, and Safety Breakdown
The Nissan Kicks has established itself as a compelling contender in the fiercely competitive subcompact crossover segment. Blending distinctive styling with practicality and a suite of modern technology, the Kicks appeals to urban drivers and small families alike.
1. Performance and Engine Specifications
The Nissan Kicks focuses on delivering efficient and responsive performance, especially in city driving scenarios.
Specification Category Key Details (Varies by Market/Model Year)
Engine Capacity: Typically around 2.0L (e.g., 1997 cc or 2.0L naturally aspirated 4-cylinder) for some markets like North America and the Middle East, or smaller engines like 1.3L Turbo Petrol (1330cc) and 1.5L Petrol/Diesel for regions like India, or 1.2L e-Power Hybrid.
Fuel Type Primarily Petrol (Gasoline), with select markets also offering Diesel or Petrol Hybrid (e-Power).
Horsepower (HP) ranges widely based on engine: 141 HP (2.0L), 153 HP (1.3L Turbo), or 136 PS (100 kW) (1.2L e-Power) are common figures.
Torque (Nm) ranges widely based on engine: 190 Nm (2.0L), 254 Nm (1.3L Turbo), or 280 Nm (1.2L e-Power).
Transmission: Most common is the Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Manual transmissions are available in some regional versions.
Note: The exact specifications, particularly engine options, can vary significantly depending on the market (e.g., US, India, GCC, Southeast Asia) and the model year (e.g., 2025 Kicks vs. prior generations).
2. Dimensions, Space, and Seating Comfort
Despite its subcompact classification, the Kicks is known for maximizing interior space, offering a practical solution for cargo and passenger comfort.
Dimension & Space Key Details (Approximate, Varies by Model Year/Trim)
Seating Capacity: 5 Passengers
Boot Capacity (Cargo Space - Seats Up) Approximately 400 to 470 Litres, with some newer generations expanding to 30 cubic feet (around 850 litres) or more.
Max Cargo Space (Seats Down) Newer models can offer up to 60 cubic feet when the 60/40 split-fold rear seats are folded down.
Exterior Dimensions Length: approx. 4,290 mm to 4,384 mm, Width: approx. 1,760 mm to 1,813 mm.
Ground Clearance: Often generous for its class, around 175 mm to 210 mm.
Seating Comfort Features include Zero Gravity Seats (on select trims), designed to provide neutral posture and reduce fatigue. Rear legroom is adequate, making it comfortable for four adults on short to medium journeys.
3. Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Safety is a cornerstone of the Nissan Kicks design, often incorporating the brand's extensive safety suite.
Safety Feature Availability
Airbags Standard dual Front Airbags, often supplemented by Side, and Curtain Airbags (up to 6 standard airbags in most markets, some newer versions offering 6 standard).
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Standard with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).
Driver-Assistance Systems Nissan's Safety Shield 360 (available/standard on many trims) includes: Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and High Beam Assist.
Other Safety Tech Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HSA), and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Crash Test Ratings IIHS Rating: Typically receives "Good" ratings across most crashworthiness tests. NHTSA Rating: Often receives 4 or 5 stars overall. Latin NCAP: Newer models (with 6 airbags and ADAS) have achieved 5-star ratings.
4. Technology, Infotainment, and Convenience
The Kicks is packed with technology designed to keep occupants connected, entertained, and comfortable on the go.
Technology Category Key Features
Infotainment Display Available with large touchscreens, often 8-inch or an impressive 12.3-inch display on newer or top-spec models.
Smartphone Connectivity Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Wireless Android Auto™ integration are standard or widely available on modern trims.
Digital Displays 7-inch Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display (digital driver cluster) is a popular feature, often customizable.
Audio System Available Bose Personal® Plus Audio System featuring speakers integrated into the driver’s headrest for an immersive sound experience.
Convenience Intelligent Key with Push Button Start, Remote Engine Start with Intelligent Climate Control, Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Hold, and a Wireless Charging Pad (on higher trims).
Advanced Camera Available Intelligent Around View® Monitor with Moving Object Detection provides a 360-degree bird's-eye view for easier parking.
