Nissan Kicks entered the global market as a replacement to Nissan Juke back in 2016. The car is now entering the Indian market with some modifications to make sure it runs smoothly. Despite being backed by a rather strong promotional campaign, Kicks at global market failed to generate any buzz and was also beaten badly by critiques. However, with a thorough investment and Indianization, the company has managed to create an interesting car. It hopes to be placed against the current segment dominator Hyundai Creta. So let us take close look at the vehicle, what it has to offer and whether or not one should invest in it, and will it survive against Creta.
EXTERIOR
For a sub-compact SUV, Nissan is handsome. At an international market, the exterior was more leaning towards the Micra, however, for India Nissan opted to go for Duster’s tough looks with an updated M0 platform that also underpins the Renault Captur. At the same time, it has all of Duster’s essence in terms of an SUV. With an upright cabin, a flat bonnet and tough body cladding, it looks like a tough and brave vehicle. One of the major reason why the design of this car stands out is because of the fact that most major design changes have been carried out in India. All the design elements starting from the signature like the sleek projector headlamps that flank the signature V-shaped grille to the diamond-cut alloys and the roof rails look good. In terms of size, it is larger than its principal competitor Creta in almost every dimension. It also happens to be 55mm longer and 32mm taller than Renault’s, the Captur. However, one must point out that it is after a long time that we are finding an SUV which doesn’t have lighting elements not flowing into the grille, giving the car a distinct look.
Interior
The company has paid a lot of attention to the interiors. They seemed to have gone an extra mile to make sure that it is upgraded. The dashboard looks stylish with the help of chocolate brown leather covering and white contrasting stitching. The seats are comfortable and are even provided with quilts, adding an essence of grandness. What stands out the most is the 8-inch touchscreen. It smooth, effective and stylish. It works well and adds uniqueness to the car. The design around the speedometer is great. The door pockets are also large enough to hold a litre bottle. However, the company could have done a way better job with ergonomics. The elbow rest can lead to a foul elbow while changing gear, the car only has 1 USB slot, fuel gauge looks unnaturally large, a few places excessive plastic has been added, the narrow but deep glove box doesn’t help either. The seating position gives the driver a fair view. The front seats are broad and give people enough space for adjustments. The steering however only adjusts for reach. Because of the bulging centre console, the rear footwell is less. Getting back is easy credits to the door that opens wide easily. Despite looking cramped there is a reasonable amount of space in the back with plenty of headroom and knee room. Even a third passenger wouldn’t make the space uncomfortable as the seat is very wide and almost a flat floor. The boot is also dual-operable. That means it can be opened from both inside and outside. The boot is of nearly 400-litres, is square and flat. Nissan has introduced some unique features in the segment like a 360-degree camera, leather dashboard inserts, and an Eco driving mode. The vehicle also offers other amazing features likes 17-inch alloys, four airbags, cruise control, auto LED projector headlamps, cornering lights, climate control, hill-hold assist, vehicle dynamic control, rain-sensing wipers and a digital speedometer, amongst others. The company at the same time hasn’t been that generous in the features department as some key features like sunroof, curtain airbags and wireless phone charging; most of which are available in prime competition Creta.
Driving
Nissan Kicks has a 1.5-litre diesel mated to a 6-speed manual and 1.5-litre petrol mated to a 5-speed manual, also used in its siblings the Duster and the Captur. It uses the M0-platform, has 210mm of ground clearance, and is two-wheel drive. The diesel version at points gives some vibes from the gear lever but functions smoothly. This engine is usually associated with lag but in this car it is absent. The car will pick up under 2000RPM but one can feel it prefers above 2000. The great ratio, just like in Duster, is short. That helps in masking the lag of the engine and it’s highlighting mid-range punch. At 100-120KM highway speed, the spinning is at 2100-2600RPM giving enabling mid-range overtaking. The steering is light enough for city rides and firms up at speed in a great manner. At points, it feels as if the front two wheels are moving in two different directions. However, what saves Kick is that it gives comfortable rides in almost all conditions. The handling too is neat and tidy and overall provides a pleasant experience in terms of a ride.
Should I buy One
The car is clearly not the best option to go with. It’s a good car but not great. It focuses on several things and introduces some segment-first features but at the same time, it fails to focus on the ergonomics. Agreed that minor comfort can’t be deciding factor but when the segment is dominated by a best-seller it needs to be taken into account. Also, Nissan isn’t a very India friendly brand. Creta has a strong network making all of its service centres available in most areas. Making servicing very easy job. Same can’t be said for Nissan. Also, spare parts aren’t that easily available making the recurring cost very high, for a car which isn’t cheap, to begin with. However, the ride is perfect and smooth. For a good riding experience, Kicks is for sure a good choice. In terms of quality, it is a strong alternative to Creta. With serious Indianization by the company, even spare parts shouldn’t be that difficult to find. Overall a good car but could have been better.