Nissan Kicks compact crossover SUV tested on Brazil roads

The Kicks is a global crossover which is expected to go on sale in over 100 markets including India.The Nissan Kicks compact crossover SUV which received green light for production in January 2016 has started testing on public roads in Brazil. Nissan’s Brazilian subsidiary will handle significant part of the development.

The early prototype has adopted Note’s body panels but the general size and raised stance clearly indicate that it is indeed the Kicks. Nissan appears to be testing the under-the-skin components of its upcoming compact crossover.

With a modern design and premium appeal, the Kicks will go head on against the Hyundai Creta and Renault Duster. While Nissan didn’t explicitly state that Indian is one of the target markets, it revealed that several international markets are under consideration for the Kicks. Given the Creta’s immense popularity in India, it would be a no-brainer to field the Kicks here.

The production version would be retaining the design lines of the concept which debuted at 2014 Sao Paulo Motor Show without major changes. A V-motion chrome grille, tight-fitting roofline and a wedge shaped rear fascia are the salient design features.

To be based on Renault-Nissan CMF (Common Module Family) platform, the Nissan Kicks crossover is expected to powered by a 1.6-litre flex-fuel engine in Brazil. For diesel friendly markets like India, the vehicle is likely to adopt the Renault’s popular 1.5-litre K9K diesel engine. We are expecting to know more details about the crossover at this year’s Sao Paulo Motor Show.

This article first appeared on rushlane.com