Arabian Drive - The Nissan Kicks 2022 model has made a splash in the UAE for all the right reasons. Its style combined elegantly with state-of-the-art technology has created much buzz in the Gulf country following its official debut, reflecting anew the Nissan brand’s sustained drawing power in the local market.

The new subcompact crossover SUV comes with best-in-class technology features aimed at meeting the preferences and lifestyle needs of younger car owners. The high-performing vehicle is equipped with Siri voice control, standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and NissanConnect Services that provide easy access to playlists, messaging platforms, maps and other apps.

Its active safety features, including Nissan Safety Shield 360 and the Intelligent Around View Monitor, provide owners the needed confidence and peace of mind whilst on the road. Nissan Safety Shield 360 is part of Nissan’s intelligent mobility. It allows drivers to monitor their surroundings and is designed to step in to help keep them and their passengers safe. Its suite of safety features includes lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, automatic high beams and automatic rear braking.

The Intelligent Around View Monitor, on the other hand, simplifies parking thanks to the vehicle’s virtual composite 360-degree bird’s-eye view. Owners are given the option to select from split-screen close-ups of the front, rear, and curbside views.

Complementing its technology is the model’s upgraded interior. From its new available centre armrest to its new larger seven-inch audio colour touch-screen display, the 2022 Kicks surely

impresses. Details such as a D-shaped steering wheel and available distinctive contrast stitching make car owners feel like the centre of attention.

The 2022 model’s exterior is equally exciting. Highlighting the personality of the new Kicks is its imposing chrome front grille with sharp forms that breakthrough as it is being driven. The new headlight design, meantime, integrates seamlessly with the grid for a front that is pure energy in motion. The power of its LED headlights gives an optimised and long-range night vision. It also leaves its unmistakable signature as evidenced by its expressive, dynamic and memorable rear assembly design.

Irfan Tansel, CEO, Al Masaood Automobiles, said: “The latest Kicks model is one of Nissan’s most radically designed and most-feature rich SUVs. From its design philosophy to its unmistakable personality, the Kicks easily attracts the attention of car buyers and enthusiasts in the country. It is daring, sporty and sophisticated, perfect for young vehicle owners who are looking to purchase a subcompact crossover to enhance their lifestyle this year. Bringing the model to the market shows our commitment to offer our customers world-class vehicles, supported by our top-notch customer service and after-sales support. We are delighted to offer them the 2022 edition of the Nissan Kicks.”

The recently unveiled crossover is available in three variants. The first is the entry-level Kicks S, which features a seven-inch touch-screen infotainment system, Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), and 16-inch alloy wheels. The second one is the Nissan Kicks SV. This model is equipped with a seven-inch Advanced Drive-Assist Display ahead of the driver, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and four speakers.

Last but not least is Kicks SL. It features an integrated dynamics-control module, six Bose speakers, and Bose UltraNearfield driver headrest speakers. It is offered with an optional premium package that includes forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, rear-cross traffic alert and brown leather interior.

All Kicks models rely on a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine paired to a continuously variable transmission. The pint-sized SUV routes 122 hp and 114 lb-ft of torque via the CVT to the front wheels and has a fuel economy rating of 31/36/33 mpg city/highway/combined.

The available colour options are Cayenne Red, Super Black, Orange, Grey Metallic, Brilliant Silver, White, and Jawa Metallic. The starting price of the Nissan Kicks 2022 edition is AED 61,900.