Nissan Kicks e-Power bookings open in Malaysia; launch imminent

KUALA LUMPUR: The official distributor of Nissan cars in Malaysia, Edaran Tan Chong Motor, has started accepting orders for the long-awaited Kicks e-Power. It is an electrified B-segment SUV that was first teased in Malaysia way back in 2022 and later showcased at the 2024 Malaysian Auto Show.

The Nissan Kicks e-Power is offered in two variants in Malaysia - VL and VLT, with an estimated price starting at RM 130,000.

Is the Nissan Kicks e-Power a hybrid SUV? According to Nissan, the Kicks e-Power is not a conventional hybrid or a fully electric vehicle. It utilises e-POWER technology, where an electric motor solely drives the wheels while the petrol engine is only used to charge the battery under certain conditions. 

This setup offers instant torque, a quiet drive, and does not require external charging, distinguishing it from both conventional hybrids and electric vehicles, claims the automaker.

With that said, both variants of the upcoming Nissan SUV are equipped with a combination of an 82 PS/103 Nm - 1.2-litre DOHC 12-valve three-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor. It comes with three drive modes - Normal, Sport, and Eco, and an e-Pedal Step, which allows drivers to accelerate and decelerate using a single pedal, reducing the need for frequent braking.

The Kicks e-Power runs from zero to 100 kmph in 9.5 seconds and offers a fuel economy of 21.7 km per litre (4.61 litres per 100 km).

Dimensionally, the SUV measures 4,290 mm in length, 1,760 mm in width, and 1,610 mm in height and spans a 2,615 mm wheelbase. In terms of design, it looks striking with a V-motion front grille and boomerang-shaped LED headlights.  

Standard equipment kit comprises - 17-inch wheels, a 7.0-inch digital display, an 8.0-inch infotainment unit supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, an electronic parking brake with auto hold, zero gravity seats, seven airbags, and autonomous emergency braking. However, the top-spec model packs more advanced features such as an intelligent rear-view mirror and active cruise control.

The Nissan Kicks e-Power is expected to launch during the 2024 Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show, beginning on December 5.

Also read: Honda, Nissan, and Mitsubishi join hands for the development of EVs and software