New spy photos show Nissan is preparing its next-generation Kicks crossover. The camouflage wrap hides the design details, but the model will receive a thorough refresh, with some easily noticeable styling changes.
The new Nissan Kicks looks slightly bigger, but it’s unclear whether it uses the new platform. The front end appears more straight and square in comparison to the slanted nose of the current crossover, with the headlights positioned further forward which tops the completely redesigned face.
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Along the sides, the Kicks has a more streamlined greenhouse shape, resulting in a sporty rear look. Nissan has also repositioned the side mirrors to the body. There’s still a sporty edge to the rear end design with a prominent roof spoiler and bold liftgate, which is topped off by Nissan’s new taillights.
No photos of the interior, but we hope Nissan redesigns it alongside the exterior. A digital instrument cluster and the latest infotainment software should be on the list of upgrades for the revamped Kicks, alongside a new dashboard and center console layout. It should also be packed with safety, and convenience features like Apple CarPlay.
We don’t know what kind of powertrain Nissan will offer in the updated model. Powering the Kicks currently in the US is Nissan’s 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. That produces 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque in the compact crossover, paired with the brand’s Xtronic continuously variable transmission. It is only available on front wheel drive.
Nissan is offering the current model with a hybrid powertrain, but it’s not available in the US. The redesigned version will allow Nissan to offer it here for the first time. The company was also able to add all-wheel drive to the model’s list of options, which could help it become the perfect replacement for the discontinued Rogue Sport with a slightly larger footprint.
An updated design, new technology, and a larger footprint could boost the model’s low starting price, threatening its position on this year’s most affordable vehicles list. The entry-level 2023 Nissan Kicks start at $21,925 (price includes $1,335 shipping and handling), with the 2023 Rogue offering plenty of room for the increased cost, starting at $30,745.
Nissan hasn’t given a debut date for the new Kicks yet. However, we believe it could happen before the end of the year. In the meantime, we hope that future test vehicles lose some of their camouflage so we can start outlining the new design. We also look forward to seeing photos of the cabin.
