Nissan is to launch the South American built Kicks into the fast growing affordable compact crossover market in June 2018.
It’s the first new model nameplate for the brand in the US and the sixth crossover and SUV model.
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The pitch? “Kicks is designed to fit the needs of singles or couples looking for unique styling, roominess, personal technology, smart functionality and advanced safety features at an affordable price.”
“This emerging CUV class is exploding with new entries for a very good reason – the combination of flexible utility and high value is ideal for active, urban new vehicle buyers,” said sales and marketing head Dan Mohnke. “Where the Kicks stands out is with its bold style, personal technology, value and anticipated fuel economy of 33mpg combined.”
Kicks assembly started in Brazil last April and the model was successful enough for a second shift to be added in July. It’s also built in China and the US will be supplied from Mexico.
Nissan’s US unit acknowledged the South American connection, as the model was launched at the Los Angeles show. The production Kicks retains the basic design cues taken from the concept first shown at the 2014 Sao Paulo show. Overseen by the global design centre in Japan, the production car is the result of close collaboration between Nissan Design America (NDA), in San Diego, and the Rio de Janeiro satellite studio.
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By GlobalDataUs Kicks have a 1.6 litre DOHC 16 valve I4 with Continuous Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS). The engine is rated at 125 horsepower and 115 lb ft of torque. It is offered with front wheel drive only and a standard CVT automatic transmission.
“Pricing will be announced closer to its on sale date in spring 2018 but we are expecting to be among the most competitive in the segment,” said Mohnke.
