Ultimately, we’re getting near the brand new Nissan Kicks. The primary-gen model went on sale here in June 2018 and received a facelift in 2021. Spy photographers spent last yr scooping prototypes, a heavily camoed Kicks from last July proving the second generation goes to be larger and possibly more conventional looking. The automaker’s caption on the Instagram video tease promised something “Greater, bolder, and higher than ever,” while advising us to “Stay tuned for a surprise unveiling.” Stacked horizontal lines will probably be a outstanding theme, quick shots within the video showing thin headlights above three rows of short DRLs, and what we imagine is a grille being rows of straight bars. The theme’s repeated in back, albeit with just two illuminated red accents under the taillights.
The Kicks is migrating to Nissan’s CMF-B architecture, which stands for Common Module Family – B, the bones that replace Nissan’s V Platform the present Kicks rides on. It’s shared with international models just like the Nissan Juke and Note, Renault Clio V and Captur, and latest Mitsubishi Colt and ASX. The architecture was designed to suit a variety of powertrains, so ICE, Nissan’s e-Power series hybrid powertrains, and EV motivations are possible depending on market. It was also designed for Renault-Nissan’s front-wheel-drive subcompacts, though, so we’re skeptical concerning the Kicks gaining the choice of all-wheel drive outside of an electrical version.
As a commenter noted last yr once we ran the spy shots, the more chunky and angular shape of the prototype suggested the brand new Kicks would present more like a brand new Rogue Sport versus the playful Gen Z attitude of today’s model. The more upright look of the rear end, with a outstanding spoiler and hatch with a pronounced deck section and integrated taillights fit the “greater, bolder” boast from the teaser. And we hope the three-spoke wheels that we have seen on a few prototypes look as cool in production form as we’re imagining. A set of five-spoke wheels from a distinct tester again emphasize straight lines with grooved spokes, and help the general package give off strong vibes of a tiny Audi.
Production’s slated to start this June for launch markets. The unboxing happens Friday, March 22.
This Article First Appeared At www.autoblog.com
