Nissan's Old Kicks Returns, And It Drives Like An EV Without Ever Plugging In
A refreshed take on the original Kicks arrives in Thailand with new tech, revised styling, and a familiar hybrid system
- The updated Kicks e-Power keeps its original platform intact.
- Fresh exterior styling gives the aging model a more modern look.
- Interior gains a larger screen and improved materials throughout.
While North American buyers have had access to the second-generation Nissan Kicks since 2024, the story elsewhere is a little more complicated. Nissan has now launched a new Kicks e-Power in Thailand, but rather than adopting the latest platform, it builds on a heavily reworked version of the original chassis, bringing updated styling and new tech into the mix.
The Thai-spec Kicks is closely related to the South-American Kait that debuted a few months ago. The subcompact SUV still rides on the first-generation Kicks platform, originally introduced in 2016. Up front, however, it gets a completely redesigned fascia with split LED headlights, replacing the V-motion grille with a more contemporary lower bumper intake and a body-colored skid plate.
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The profile of the 4,300 mm (169.3 inches) long model looks familiar, as the sheet metal and the greenhouse have been carried over. Still, Nissan added new wheels and redesigned skid plates. The rear end features slimmer taillights and a much cleaner tailgate, with the license plate holder moving to the redesigned rear bumper.
Inside, the most notable upgrade is a larger 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, paired with a 7-inch display in an otherwise fairly basic digital instrument cluster.
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The dashboard features updated materials and more contemporary A/C vents, while upholstery options include Moonstone and Black/Dark Gray. Equipment highlights include a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a wireless charging pad, an intelligent rearview mirror, and the Nissan ProPILOT suite with updated ADAS features.
Hybrid-Only
Unlike the Brazilian-spec Kait, which offers a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter gasoline engine, the Thai-spec Kicks is available exclusively with a self-charging hybrid setup.
The e-Power system combines a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine that functions as a generator
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The refreshed Kicks uses Nissan's e-Power hybrid system exclusively in Thailand markets.
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This shows automakers adapting different platforms regionally based on local preferences and costs.
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The e-Power system debuted in the Nissan Note and uses the engine only to charge the battery.