The Nissan Kicks has just gone on sale and immediately comes across as a far more compelling proposition than Nissan’s outgoing SUV, the Terrano. The Kicks is well built, feels tough and also offers plenty by way of features. It’s keenly priced too. If you are interested in one, you’d do well to read through our pick of the range.

What are the engines on offer?

The Nissan Kicks shares its engines and gearboxes with the Captur SUV from its sister brand Renault. The K9K 1.5-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine makes the same 110hp and 240Nm of peak torque in both models and also comes mated to the same 6-speed manual gearbox. Interestingly, the Kicks has the edge when talking fuel economy, with an efficiency figure of 20.45kpl to the Captur’s 19.91kpl.

The petrol motor on the Kicks is a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder engine that produces 106hp and 142Nm of peak torque. It comes mated to a 5-speed manual transmission and has an ARAI rated efficiency figure of 14.23kpl (the Captur, which has the same engine, is rated at 13.87kpl).

Automatic gearbox options are not on offer as yet but could be added to the line-up later.

What are the variants on offer?

The petrol engine option is available in just the base XL (Rs 9.55 lakh) and mid-spec XV (Rs 10.95 lakh) trims. Even in base XL trim, the Kicks gets features like dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, brake assist, rear parking sensors, central locking with speed-sensing door locks and LED daytime running lamps. 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, a front-centre armrest, power windows, power-adjustable wing mirrors with integrated turn indicators, auto climate control, rear AC vents and a 2-DIN music system with Bluetooth connectivity are other features on board the base XL. The diesel Kicks XL (Rs 10.85 lakh) has exactly the same kit.

The Kicks XV adds equipment like a reverse camera, 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, front fog lamps, roof rails, a rear wiper, rear seat armrest, an 8.0-inch touchscreen screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and steering-mounted audio controls. However, the diesel Kicks XV (Rs 12.49) also sports an ECO drive mode and Vehicle Dynamic Control.

The Kicks XV Premium (Rs 13.65 lakh) and XV Premium+ (Rs 14.65 lakh) trims are only available on the diesel engine. The former is equipped with hill-start assist, LED headlamps, leather-wrapped steering and gear knob, keyless entry, push-button start and cruise control. The top-spec XV Premium+ has a segment-first 360-degree camera, four airbags, corning function for the front fog lamps, rear fog lamps, leather upholstery and dashboard, and automatic wipers and headlamps.

Which is the variant to buy?

While we are yet to drive the petrol Kicks, our experience of the petrol Captur points to a dull driving experience. The diesel engine powered Kicks on the other hand has adequate grunt and is likeable.

Of the diesels, the top-spec XV Premium+ gets lots of features but is pricey. The XV Premium is an interesting proposition as it gets most of the comfort features you’d want (including LED headlights) at a fair price. However, if you want most bang for your buck, opt for the mid-spec Kicks XV (Rs 12.49 lakh). It comes with all modern day essentials with the highlight being the 8.0-inch touchscreen.

(All prices, ex-showroom, Delhi)