Nissan Kicks 2017 Review

In recent years, the popularity of the subcompact SUV market has been growing locally, with young families and first-time car buyers leaning more toward models that balance compact size and practical space. The 2017 Nissan Kicks public is positioned as an entry-level option targeting this niche market. As an SUV under Nissan's youthful lineup, it emphasizes stylish design and balanced configurations as its core selling points. This test drive focuses on verifying whether its actual driving performance and everyday practicality meet expectations.

In terms of exterior design, the 2017 Kicks public adopts Nissan's signature V-Motion front grille, paired with sharp LED headlights, giving it a high degree of visual recognition. The vehicle's side lines are sleek, and the floating roof design enhances its youthful appeal. The design of the 17-inch alloy wheels also looks dynamic. At the rear, the through-type tail lights echo the design of the front, while the silver skid plate on the rear bumper enhances the SUV's ruggedness. Regarding the lighting system, the headlights support automatic activation, and the range and brightness during nighttime driving basically meet everyday needs.

Inside the car, the interior is primarily black, complemented by silver trims, creating a simple and practical overall style. The center console is angled slightly toward the driver for easier operation. The seats are upholstered in fabric material with moderate softness, and the front row seats are manually adjustable, offering decent comfort for long journeys. Regarding core features, the new car is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Bluetooth connectivity and smartphone mirroring. The screen response speed and operational smoothness are in line with the standards of entry-level models. Additionally, the multi-function steering wheel, automatic air conditioning, and rear air vents improve the convenience of daily use.

In terms of space, the body dimensions of the 2017 Kicks public measure 4295mm×1760mm×1590mm, with a wheelbase of 2610mm. The front row provides ample legroom, leaving approximately one fist's clearance above the head of a 175cm-tall passenger after adjusting the seat. The rear space is average, with about two fists' worth of legroom and slightly constrained headroom. For storage, the front central armrest box and door-side storage compartments offer moderate capacity. The trunk has a standard volume of 432L, which can be expanded to 879L by folding down the rear seats. This meets the storage needs for daily family outings.

In terms of the powertrain, the 2017 Kicks public is equipped with a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine, delivering a maximum power of 77kW (105PS) and a peak torque of 139N·m, paired with a CVT continuously variable transmission. During daily driving, the power output is relatively smooth, the response during initial acceleration is moderate, and the CVT performs quietly without noticeable jolts during acceleration. For overtaking or rapid acceleration, the engine needs to rev higher to provide sufficient power, reflecting an overall focus on comfort and family use. Regarding driving modes, the new car offers two options: Eco and Normal. In Eco mode, the throttle response is slightly sluggish, making it suitable for daily commutes to optimize fuel efficiency.

In terms of handling and chassis performance, the steering wheel is light, with minimal play and precise directionality, offering flexible driving experiences during daily use. The suspension system adopts a front MacPherson independent suspension and a rear torsion beam non-independent suspension, tuned for comfort. When driving over speed bumps or bumpy roads, the suspension effectively filters out most vibrations, making the bumps barely noticeable for passengers inside. However, there is noticeable body roll during high-speed cornering, and the overall handling limit is not high, making it more suitable for stable driving.

In terms of fuel consumption, this test drive was mainly conducted on urban roads. The combined fuel consumption was about 6.8L per 100 kilometers, demonstrating fuel economy that aligns with the level of a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine. For braking performance, the brake pedal feel is linear, the braking force is evenly distributed, and the vehicle remains stable during emergency braking, offering reliable overall performance.

In terms of driving comfort, the noise control performance of the vehicle is average. At high speeds, both wind and tire noise are more noticeable inside the cabin but remain within an acceptable range. The seat support is decent, and long periods of sitting do not cause evident fatigue. Additionally, the air conditioning system cools quickly, and the rear air vents ensure comfort for rear passengers as well.

In conclusion, the core strengths of the 2017 Nissan Kicks public are its stylish design, balanced space performance, and practical configuration level. Compared with competitors like the Honda HR-V or Toyota C-HR in the same segment, it is more affordably priced while offering configurations sufficient for daily requirements. Overall, this vehicle is suitable for young family users who value cost performance and practicality, or first-time SUV buyers. Its smooth power output and comfortably tuned chassis make it well-suited for urban commuting and family outings.

As an entry-level small SUV, the 2017 Kicks public demonstrates good balance in design, space, and equipment. Although its power and handling are not its strengths, its overall performance is adequate for family use. If you are looking for an affordable SUV with strong practicality and youthful appeal, it is a worthy choice to consider.