2021 Nissan Kicks Gets Mid-Cycle Update and Makeover

Launched in 2018, the Nissan Kicks is getting a mid-cycle update for 2021. While the changes are not revolutionary, customers can still expect a few pleasant surprises.  

Aesthetically, the headlights, front bumper, grille and wheels have all been redesigned for a sharper look. The tweaks are more subtle in the rear, highlighted by new LED taillights and a revised bumper with fewer black plastic inserts.

The Kicks continues to be available with a monochromatic or two-tone exterior. There are three new body colours for 2021—Electric Blue Metallic, Scarlet Ember Tintcoat and Boulder Gray Pearl—and three new combinations—Super Black/Scarlet Ember Tintcoat, Super Black/Electric Blue and Super Black/Boulder Gray Pearl. 

Photo: Nissan

You won’t find any changes under the hood, however. The 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine returns, producing 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque through a continuously variable transmission. While Canadian fuel economy figures for 2021 are not yet available, they should be pretty much identical to the 2020 model (combined 7.2 L/100 km).

A More Modern Interior

Designers have updated the 2021 Nissan Kicks inside, as well. The centre armrest is now integrated to the centre console instead of the driver’s seat, which is something customers requested. Also, throughout the cabin, silver accents have been replaced with a combination of more subdued silver and black.

Photo: Nissan

The Kicks' instrument panel is dominated by a centrally mounted seven-inch colour touchscreen display in base trim. SV and SR models receive an eight-inch display. In each case, NissanConnectfeatures Apple CarPlayand Android Auto as standard equipment.

Also standard is Safety Shield360, which includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking, Lane Departure Warning, radar-based Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and High Beam Assist. New for 2021 and standard on SV and SR models is Intelligent Cruise Control.

The updated 2021 Nissan Kicks will arrive at Canadian dealers in February. Pricing has yet to be announced.

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