What is a Nissan Kicks exactly?
It’s a small SUV that, in its original form, looked quite Juke-y, but these days it looks more like someone shrunk the X-Trail. It’s based on the same CMF-B HS platform as the Renault Clio and the current Juke, so there are all sorts of options for engines and hybrid systems, and we already know the Kicks will come with the e-Power hybrid setup from the Nissan Note compact MPV.
Does that mean the Nissan Kicks is driven only by its electric motor?
Yes, it does, but there’ll be no plug-in facility — Nissan’s e-Power system is designed to give you the feeling of smooth, effortless electric acceleration while using its 1.5-litre petrol engine as a generator for the small hybrid battery. It’s simpler than a plug-in hybrid, but it does need petrol to actually work. Nissan reckons it’s a good stepping stone to get buyers used to the sensations of electric driving before they commit to a full-on battery electric car.
Why are we getting the Nissan Kicks now?
Most likely because the incoming new Juke is switching to all-electric power (and is getting some seriously dramatic and potentially divisive styling, which we love but not everyone will), and Nissan needs to keep an affordable hybrid model on sale. The Kicks coming to Europe represents a massive investment of almost €200 million in Nissan’s Sunderland plant.
Massimiliano Messina, Chairperson for Nissan’s European operations, said: “This is fantastic news for our European region and demonstrates the agility and speed with which we can bring new models to new markets. Kicks is a compact crossover, with the unique e-Power hybrid drivetrain, exciting design and innovative technology. Electrification with choice is what European customers want, and the introduction of Kicks will further demonstrate how Nissan has options for all.”
How many cars does Nissan make in Sunderland now?
Right now, Nissan builds three models in Sunderland — Qashqai, Leaf, and Juke. The Kicks will be the fourth model, and Nissan is also setting up a partnership with Chinese carmaker Chery to make cars at the Sunderland site. The Kicks will be the tenth model Nissan has made there, and the factory has produced more than 12 million cars since it built its first Bluebird (remember them?) forty years ago.
Adam Pennick, Vice President of Manufacturing, Nissan Sunderland Plant, said: “I’m proud to welcome this new model allocation for Sunderland. It’s the perfect way to celebrate our 40th year as a world-class manufacturing site. We look forward to seeing Kicks e-Power hybrid going down the production line with our electrified line up of Qashqai, Juke and Leaf”
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