We'd told you about the Nissan Kicks SUV's imminent launch in India back in June this year, and now, the carmaker has confirmed the news and has shared sketches of the India-spec model.
In terms of appearance, the India-spec Kicks will be largely identical to the model sold in international markets, but Nissan says, in terms of dimensions, it will be bigger than the model sold abroad. Expect the India-spec SUV to be around 4.4m in length (the international model measures in at just under 4.3m), and it's likely to be taller and will have a longer wheelbase as well to maximise space on the inside. The India-spec Kicks could also have more boot space than the international Kicks' 432 litres.
The five-seat cabin will also be far removed from all we’ve seen from Nissan, so far. There’s a youthful vibe to the cabin – and for maximum effect, Nissan could also be adventurous with the interior colour scheme. An 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be part of the package, as will automatic climate control and several other goodies.
The Kicks will sit above the Terrano in Nissan’s India line-up. Interestingly, while the Kicks is a global model, the version for India won't be based on Nissan’s V platform. Instead, the car will use an updated version of the M0 platform designed by its Alliance partner, Renault. The M0 also underpins the Terrano, the Renault Duster, and the India-spec Captur. Being slightly larger in size to the aforementioned models, the Kicks will be positioned as a more premium offering.
It is likely the India-spec Kicks will likely have the same engine and gearbox options as the Terrano, Duster, and Captur: the tried-and-tested 110hp, 1.5-litre diesel motor, and a 106hp, 1.6-litre petrol engine. Gearbox options could include a six-speed manual for the diesel and a five-speed manual for the petrol. A CVT gearbox could also be offered on the petrol-powered Kicks.
Expect prices for the Kicks to range from Rs 9.4 lakh to 15 lakh (ex-showroom) when it is launched early next year.
We have driven the international-spec Kicks, and you can read all about it in our mega 19th anniversary issue.
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