The 2018 Nissan Kicks will be arriving at U.S.
dealerships next month and the automaker has just revealed the model will be
priced from US$ 17,990.
Set to become Nissan’s most affordable crossover,
the Kicks will slot beneath the Rogue Sport and compete with models such as the
Chevrolet Trax, Honda HR-V and Ford EcoSport. The Kicks manages to undercut all
three of its competitors by nearly US$ 2,000 and this could bode well for the
model.
Nissan hasn’t released detailed specifications but
the entry-level Kicks S will come equipped with 16-inch steel wheels, roof
rails and automatic headlights. The crossover also boasts three USB ports,
Bluetooth connectivity and an automatic emergency braking system.
The mid-level Kicks SV starts at US$ 19,690 and comes
more generously equipped as it features body-color mirrors and door handles as
well as 17-inch aluminum wheels. The interior gets some nice touches as well
including an automatic climate control system, a rear tonneau cover and a
7.0-inch infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.
There’s also a blind spot warning system, rear cross traffic alert and a Nissan
Intelligent Key.
The range-topping Kicks SR is the sportiest of the
bunch as it has unique bumpers, a tailgate-mounted spoiler and dark chrome
grille accents. Other highlights include LED low-beam headlights, fog lights
and black mirrors with integrated turn signals.
The interior is a tad sportier as the Kicks SR has a
leather-wrapped steering wheel, special fabric and unique trim. There’s also a
leather shifter with chrome accents and an Intelligent Around View Monitor.
Each model is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder
engine that produces 125 hp and 155 Nm of torque.
It is connected to an Xtronic continuously variable transmission which enables
the crossover to return an estimated 33 mpg combined. The
Kicks will be available exclusively with front-wheel drive.
