Nissan unveiled the Kicks SUV in Brasil recently and will launch it there by the end of this year. However, reports suggest that Nissan India might start producing the Indian-spec Kicks only in May 2018.
The Nissan Kicks is the first product based on the Renault-Nissan CMF-B (Common Module Family) platform. The SUV is codenamed PB1D and has been designed for markets where buyers are looking for small crossovers, which have a good ground clearance and look aggressive and sporty.
The Latin American Kicks comes powered by a series of flex fuel engines, but we can expect Indian-spec Kicks to come powered by the Renault-sourced 1.5-litre K9K diesel mill. This motor is seen under the hood of the Nissan Terrano in two states of tune - 85bhp and 110bhp. Additionally, petrol variants might also be offered for the Indian market.
Looking at the demand for such SUVs increasing in India, we had also expected the carmaker to launch the Kicks in our country, but in 2017. It would have then competed against the Hyundai Creta and the Renault Duster. However, with its launch expected in 2018, its competitors might increase by then. Nevertheless, the Indian model might be slightly different from the global model. Let's hope this heavy localisation helps for an attractive market positioning.
Source: ET
