The automotive industry is constantly evolving, with manufacturers striving to improve their vehicles’ performance, efficiency, and environmental impact. The Nissan Kicks, a popular subcompact crossover SUV, is no exception to this trend. Let’s get into the significant changes and improvements made to the Kicks engine for the new model year. 

The 2025 Nissan Kicks

Since its introduction, the Nissan Kicks has been a popular choice in the subcompact SUV segment. Known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and urban-friendly design, the Kicks has continually evolved to meet changing consumer demands and regulatory requirements. The new model year brings significant updates to its powertrain, marking a new chapter in the vehicle’s history.

Engine Changes

The Nissan Kicks introduces a revolutionary new engine that significantly differs from its predecessor. While the previous model utilized a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, the new Kicks adopts a more advanced and efficient powertrain. The new engine is a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder unit, incorporating the latest in Nissan engine technology.

Key changes include:

• Reduction in engine displacement from 1.6 liters to 1.5 liters
• Transition from a four-cylinder to a three-cylinder configuration
• Addition of turbocharging technology
• Implementation of a mild hybrid system

These changes aim to enhance performance, improve fuel efficiency, and reduce emissions, aligning with global trends towards more sustainable transportation solutions.

Power and Performance

The new 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine in the Nissan Kicks offers a significant boost in power and torque compared to its predecessor. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the performance metrics:

• Power output: 134 kW (180 hp) at 5,500 rpm (up from 90 kW/122 hp)
• Torque: 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) at 1,750-4,000 rpm (up from 155 Nm/114 lb-ft)
• 0-100 km/h acceleration: 7.8 seconds (improved from 9.7 seconds)
• Top speed: 195 km/h (121 mph) (increased from 170 km/h/106 mph)

The substantial increase in power and torque is primarily due to the turbocharging technology, which allows the smaller displacement engine to produce more power efficiently. The broader torque band, starting at lower RPMs, improves responsiveness and acceleration, particularly in urban driving scenarios.

Fuel Efficiency and Emissions

One of the most significant improvements in the Nissan Kicks engine is its enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The combination of a smaller displacement engine, turbocharging, and mild hybrid technology contributes to these advancements:

• Fuel consumption (combined cycle): 5.2 L/100km (45.2 mpg US)
• CO2 emissions: 119 g/km

The 2025 Kicks demonstrates a remarkable improvement in efficiency and environmental performance compared to the previous model’s 6.2 L/100km (37.9 mpg US) and 141 g/km CO2 emissions.

The mild hybrid system, which includes a 48V battery and an integrated starter-generator, contributes to this efficiency by:

• Providing electric assist during acceleration
• Enabling smoother and more efficient start
• Stop functionality (Recovering energy during deceleration and braking)

These features work together to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, particularly in urban driving conditions where stop-start traffic is common.

Transmission and Drivetrain

Nissan has updated the transmission in the Kicks to complement the new engine. The previous model’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) has been replaced with a new 8-speed automatic transmission. This change aims to provide a more engaging driving experience while maintaining optimal efficiency. The Kicks continues to be a front-wheel drive configuration, with all-wheel drive available as an option on higher trim levels.

2025 Nissan Kicks: Improved Performance

The Nissan Kicks represents a significant leap forward in engine technology and performance for the popular subcompact SUV. By transitioning to a smaller displacement, turbocharged three-cylinder engine with mild hybrid assistance, Nissan has successfully addressed the growing demand for improved efficiency without compromising performance.

These changes position the Nissan Kicks as a more competitive option in the subcompact SUV segment, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers who also desire improved performance. The new powertrain demonstrates the Nissan commitment to innovation and sustainability, aligning with global trends toward electrification and reduced emissions.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the Nissan Kick is an example of how traditional internal combustion engines can be optimized and hybridized to meet stringent efficiency and emissions standards. This approach allows Nissan to offer an affordable, efficient, and now more powerful option in the highly competitive subcompact SUV market, bridging the gap between conventional powertrains and fully electric vehicles.