[QUICK REVIEW] Nissan Kicks e-Power: A Refreshing Hybrid Journey

This innovative design results in impressive fuel efficiency, with the Kicks e-Power consuming only about 2.2L/100km – comparable to current scooters on the market! This is the major advantage of Nissan’s e-Power hybrid technology.

The second advantage is that the Nissan Kicks e-Power allows consumers to switch to an electric car without changing their usage habits. The car still runs on gasoline, eliminating the initial challenges when the charging infrastructure cannot meet the demand. In other words, you can enjoy the benefits of an electric car while still filling up with gasoline. Surprising, isn’t it?

The third advantage is the Vietnamese car market’s alignment with the global auto industry’s development trend. Vietnam is no longer considered a “third market” or a consumption “blank spot.” The country has seen the introduction of pure electric vehicles, concept cars designed specifically for the region, and a variety of hybrid models targeting a wide range of consumers, not just the luxury car segment.

All three advantages are embodied in the Nissan Kicks e-Power. So, what makes this newly launched B-segment crossover on November 2, 2022 so special?

Electric car-like real-world performance

The e-Power technology of the Nissan Kicks is derived from the pure electric Nissan Leaf. It consists of key components such as a high-powered W electric motor, a Lithium-ion battery pack, an inverter, a 1.2L DOHC 3-cylinder gasoline engine, and a power generator that converts motion energy into electrical energy.

Here’s how it works: the gasoline engine drives the power generator, which in turn provides electrical energy. The energy is then stabilized by the inverter before being stored in the battery or supplied directly to the electric motor system located at the rear axle, propelling the wheels.

Unlike traditional hybrid cars, the gasoline engine in the Nissan Kicks e-Power does not directly drive the wheels. Instead, it serves as a power source, similar to pure electric vehicles where the wheels are solely driven by the electric motor.

Thanks to this unique system, the 2022 Nissan Kicks e-Power delivers an impressive maximum power of up to 134 horsepower and a maximum torque of 280 Nm right from the start. In real-world driving, the Nissan Kicks provides an exhilarating acceleration experience, comparable to electric vehicles, with instant torque at any speed.

The car also features energy recovery when braking, significantly reducing fuel consumption to just 2.2L/100km (in urban conditions) – an astonishing figure that rivals regular scooters! Users can now save on fuel costs while contributing to a greener environment with significantly reduced emissions.

In addition, Nissan has introduced several interesting features with the e-Power technology, such as the EV mode that completely turns off the gasoline engine for a silent driving experience similar to a pure electric car, and the e-Pedal Step that allows drivers to use just one pedal for both acceleration and braking, making it ideal for city driving.

Packed with technology, compact yet stylish design

The Nissan Kicks e-Power 2022 doesn’t disappoint when it comes to advanced safety technologies. It features a 360-degree camera system with moving object detection, drowsiness warning, cruise control combined with electronic parking brake with auto hold, hill start assist, reverse sensors, and a comprehensive 6-airbag system…

The Nissan Kicks e-Power 2022 shares a similar design with other B-segment crossovers currently on the market, such as the Kia Seltos or Hyundai Creta. It measures 4,305 x 1,760 x 1,615mm (LxWxH) and boasts one of the segment’s longest wheelbases at 2,620mm.

The front of the car features Nissan’s signature V-Motion grille, as seen in other models like the Almera and Navara. Full LED headlights complete the look. At the rear, the Nissan Kicks showcases a boomerang-shaped design with full LED brake lights, giving it a youthful and modern appeal. Overall, the design of the Nissan Kicks is not groundbreaking, but it is sleek, contemporary, and sure to attract young customers.

Inside, the Nissan Kicks features comfortable Zero Gravity leather seats that optimize passenger comfort. The cabin feels spacious thanks to its minimalist design.

The center of the dashboard houses an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The car features a sporty D-cut steering wheel and a compact electronic shifter combined with a mechanical handbrake, giving it a clean and visually appealing look.

In summary, the Nissan Kicks e-Power offers an interior space that complements its exterior: not groundbreaking, but practical, roomy, and suitable for everyday needs.

Similar to its Hyundai “siblings” in the Thanh Cong family, Nissan Kicks e-Power comes with a 5-year or 100,000 km warranty. The car is imported from Thailand and is available in two versions: e-Power E priced at 789 million VND, and e-Power V priced at 858 million VND.

Anh Phan (Tuoitrethudo)