Nissan has launched a new small SUV in Japan that has previously been off limits and it could make its way to Australia.
The Kicks is now being produced in in Japan for the domestic market. It’s also produced in Mexico and Brazil for North and South America, respectively.
Given Japan is a right-hand drive market, this theoretically makes an Australian launch for the Kicks a step easier.
There’s even more merit as the related Juke small has been discontinued in Australia.
Additionally, the new-generation, all-electric Juke is European-focused and not coming to Australia.
This makes Nissan’s smallest model in Australia the Qashqai, which is now only offered with an e-Power powertrain.
The most affordable Nissan model now locally is the entry-level X-Trail ST 2WD at $38,140 before on-road costs.
“Nissan Australia continuously evaluates vehicles from across our global portfolio for the Australian market; however, we have no announcements to make regarding future product plans at this time,” said a Nissan Australia spokesperson.
In Japan the Kicks features a new, third-generation e-Power hybrid powertrain, like the Qashqai. It’s available in either single-motor or dual-motor forms.
All versions have a 1.4-litre three-cylinder that acts purely as a generator to top up the .
This second-generation version of the Kicks is much more upmarket than the previous version and features more American-like design cues.
Inside there are dual 12.3-inch screens that are integrated into a singular housing and run on Google Built-in.
Standard equipment includes (AEB), ing, rear cross-traffic alert, as well as a surround-view camera.