The third-generation e-Power system, introduced just last year in the Qashqai SUV model, drops the HR12DE gasoline generator for the HR14DDe. This 1.4-liter direct injected 3-cylinder powerplant produces 98 horsepower and 115 Nm of torque.

Tractive effort, however, is provided by a front-mounted YM52 electric motor. This new generation motor uses a 5-in-1 design in that the five core components—motor, generator, inverter, reducer, and increaser—have been modularized making it more compact, lightweight, and more rigid. It also manages to produce 143 horsepower and 315 Nm of torque—figures up from the current Kicks. Together with a 45-liter fuel tank, Nissan says it can go more than 1,200 kilometers on a single tank of gas (25.7 km/L to 28.7 km/L).

Another big news is the availability of Nissan’s e-4orce electronic all-wheel drive. This setup adds a rear motor—the MM48—adding 68 horsepower and 140 Nm to the rear axle. On pavement, the e-4orce system integrates brake control enabling the Kicks to have heightened levels of cornering performance. It also adds a “Snow” mode too.

The rest of the Kicks package is similar to the version first launched in North America save for the lower ride height (170 mm versus 213 mm). The larger body and more upright stance (4,365 mm x 1,800 mm x 1,615 mm in length x width x height) makes it look more aggressive and comes with LED headlights with hidden DRLs and 17 or 19-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the larger footprint gives the Kicks a more generous interior. Extra emphasis has been given to rear passenger and cargo room. Back-friendly Zero Gravity seats are standard for all outboard occupants as are a pair of 12.3-inch screens—one for the gauge cluster and another for the infotainment, the latter having Google built-in. Capacitive buttons control most functions save for a physical volume knob and dedicated track buttons. There’s also an automatic climate control with rear vents and, controversially, a row of buttons that replaces the e-Shifter mechanism. Optional features include a panoramic sunroof and even a Bose sound system with headrest-mounted speakers.

Compared to the current Kicks, Nissan added more soft-touch materials such as synthetic leather and fabric. This highly improves the touchpoints, specifically the instrument panel, center console, and door trims.

In terms of safety, the all-new Kicks adds ProPilot as standard with enhancements done to the Intelligent Emergency Braking which now detects pedestrians, oncoming vehicles, and crossing traffic at intersections much better. It also adds Blind Spot Intervention (I-BSI) and Blind Spot Warning (BSW), as well as Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA). Meanwhile, for the Intelligent Around View Monitor, additional views—Front Wide View, Invisible Hood View, and 3D View have been added.