Going electric with the Kicks e

2023 Nissan Kicks e-Power VE

How far are we from driving electric vehicles (EVs)? We’re a lot closer than you think, and Nissan's latest model is out to prove that it need not be expensive, nor is it complicated.

Say hello to the 2023 Kicks e-Power VE. It is the mid-trim of the Japanese automaker's local crossover offering and is its second nameplate with an electrified powertrain after the Leaf.

There is something about the Kicks’ body making it stand out over rivals in the segment. It is not the typical sexy and sleek shape with its tall windshield and short proportions, yet it exudes a unique appeal I can't quite explain.

It sports one of the few examples of the double ‘V-Motion’ grille because there is a thick glossy panel beside the chrome trim that frames the black grille. On either side are LED headlamps with LED daytime running lamps, and right below is a silver underbody garnish.

Up top are functioning roof rails, a shark's fin antenna, a rear spoiler, and blacked-out pillars, which give all models, regardless of trim level, a floating roof effect.

The rear is probably one of its best features. It is compact like the Juke and has angular shapes on the glass and tailgate for a uniform look. The LED taillamps have a shapely design, and it also comes with a rear underbody garnish. It finishes off with wraparound body cladding and 17-inch alloy wheels.

If you are wondering why the front logo on the grille is chunky, that is due to the casing that holds the sensors for all its ‘intelligent’ safety features, which we will get to later.

I would have preferred the roof a little lower for a more aerodynamic body, but it is not awkwardly tall. It is more angular than typical crossovers that sport a lower profile, but it is unique, which makes me like its exterior design.

It has a smart key, so locking and unlocking take a push of a button (on the door handle). Inside are Zero Gravity fabric front seats, synthetic leather trim on the dashboard, an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, four USB ports (three Type A, one Type C), a seven-inch TFT instrument display, and an electronic (futuristic-looking) gear selector.

I still have to feel the full benefits of the Zero Gravity seats. I can say that it is adequately bolstered and offers a comfy fit for Asian body types. The infotainment display is crisp and snappy. Apple CarPlay starts automatically when an iPhone is connected, and despite having only four speakers, the audio fills the cabin even at high speed. Despite the compact size, there is enough legroom to go around and plenty of cubbyholes for small items. Bring the 60-40 split-fold seats down, and luggage space goes up to 835 liters.

The beauty of the Kicks e-Power lies in its powertrain. It has a 100% electric motor-driven system, which means the motor powers the wheels at all times. The sole job of the 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine is to charge the lithium-ion batteries under the front seats that power the 349-voltelectric motor. System output of 136 PS and 280 Nm of torque is instantly sent to the front wheels using an automatic single-speed gear reduction system. It offers three drive modes, Eco, Normal, and Sport. Except for Normal, all modes use the e-Pedal system. Lift off the throttle, and the engine brake slows down the vehicle while also using regenerative braking to charge the battery. It is more efficient and saves brake components.

The torque is available on demand, which makes the vehicle very responsive. Acceleration is immediate, and without gears, it feels like it can go on endlessly. Even with the engine on, there is hardly any noise from the powertrain. Cabin insulation is so good that noise, vibration, and harshness levels are very low.

Steering is light but precise, and the e-Pedal makes taking corners more stable and with less body roll, which makes it even more fun around tight corners. Even the size of the multi-function steering wheel is just right. Plus, it even has cruise controls.

The VE does not have an Intelligent Around-View Monitor with Moving Object Detection but has an Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Emergency Braking, and Driver Attention Alert.

I wish it had speed-sensing locks or that it locks when shifted to Drive, but with a return of 18.5 km/l in mixed driving conditions, it is not a deal breaker. Plus, at P1.309 million, it seriously undercuts hybrid models in the market by close to P200k.

If you are still hesitant to go full EV, the 2023 Nissan Kicks e-Power VE should be an unintimidating and easy intro to the world of electric mobility.