Nissan India might start producing the Indian-spec Kicks in May 2018. This model will be slightly different from the Kicks SUV that premiered in Brasil recently.
Cosmetically, the Indian model of the Nissan Kicks is expected to look the same but will be heavily localised. This SUV is the first Nissan vehicle to be based on the Renault-Nissan CMF-B (Common Module Family) platform. The car 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.
Globally, the Nissan Kicks comes powered by the series of flex fuel engines. However, 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 then. Also, the Indian model might be slightly differentfromthe global model. Let's hope this heavy localisation might help for an attractive market positioning.
Source: ET
