2025 Nissan Kicks debuts with bigger dimensions, bolder looks, and AWD system

KUALA LUMPUR: Nissan has unveiled the all-new second-generation Kicks ahead of its world premiere at the 2024 New York International Auto Show, scheduled to begin on March 29. The upgraded SUV is larger than its predecessor and features a more refined design, a more robust engine, and an all-wheel drive system, enhancing its overall presence and appeal.

The key highlights of the all-new 2025 Nissan Kicks are as follows - 

Design 

The new Kicks is built on the GS Platform, which also underpins the new Mitsubishi SUV, the X-Force. In addition to sharing the platform, the Nissan model incorporates similar exterior design elements as the X-Force. The impressive front end of the SUV features premium LED lighting with a distinctive new light signature, a muscular hood, and a robust bumper.

Among the other exterior highlights are bold 19-inch alloy wheels, and an updated rear section with new LED vertical tail lights.

Dimensions

The new Kicks is 4,366 mm long (up by 56 mm), 1,800 mm wide (up by 40 mm), and 1,630 mm tall (up by 20 mm). The wheelbase has also expanded from 2,620 mm to 2,656 mm. With increased dimensions, the SUV offers a more spacious cabin, with rear passengers enjoying an additional 3.8 cm of shoulder space and 2.2 cm of legroom.

Notably, the new Kick offers a segment-leading ground clearance of 8.4 inches, providing an added benefit when navigating rough roads.

Engine

Nissan introduces the new Kicks in three trims - S, SV, and SR, all equipped with a robust 2.0-litre inline-four engine producing a maximum power of 141 hp and a peak torque of 190 Nm of torque, The engine is paired with the brand’s latest Xtronic transmission and the optional Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system.

Models with AWD feature a "Snow" driving mode, optimizing all-wheel-drive and vehicle dynamic control systems for slippery surfaces. 

Interior

The upscale interior of the SUV features a standard 7-inch driver display and infotainment screen. However, with the top-spec trim, larger 12.3-inch units are available with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality and two display modes: a more traditional Classic and a more feature-rich Enhanced view.

The SUV also benefits from Nissan's Zero Gravity seating design, helping distribute weight and pressure across the occupants' bodies for a more comfortable seating position reducing fatigue. Also part of the upgraded kit is a newly designed flat-bottom steering wheel, larger bottle holders, sleek, touch-capacitive switches for automatic climate control, a wireless device charging pad, and a new panoramic sunroof.

Safety

On the safety front, the new Kicks is packed with an updated Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite of safety and driver-assistance kit as standard. It includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and High Beam Assist. The higher-spec models go a step further by offering Nissan's ProPilot Assist, a technology designed for light-touch assisted highway driving.

"The all-new Kicks invigorates the small crossover segment with its expressive design, confident driving experience, and enhanced technology offering," said Ponz Pandikuthira, senior vice president and chief planning officer, Nissan Americas. "With standout product changes and class-leading capabilities, Kicks demonstrates how Nissan brings thrill to all vehicle segments in a way that makes every drive better."

The 2025 Nissan Kicks is set to hit the U.S. showroom this summer.

Nissan Kicks in Malaysia

Edaran Tan Chong Motor, the official distributor of Nissan cars in Malaysia, announced its intention to introduce the Kicks in the country back in 2018. However, the arrival of the SUV is still pending.

Also read: Honda and Nissan in talks for developing EVs together