Nissan Releases New KIX Mini SUV
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced the release of the new KIX mini sport utility vehicle (SUV), which went on sale today at Nissan dealers nationwide. Marketed under the tagline of "SHIFT_Active," the KIX is a compact, dependable, high-utility SUV designed for people with active lifestyles. In fact, the name KIX is derived from "kicks," an American slang term for "an exciting or highly enjoyable activity." In addition, "X," in mathematics, refers to an "unknown quantity" - reinforcing the idea that the new Nissan KIX offers owners the potential for spirited, exciting experiences and adventures yet to come.
Rugged Exterior, Comfortable and Practical Interior The KIX's exterior styling expresses the tough, rugged looks that are a hallmark of all Nissan SUVs. The rugged-looking front grille continues Nissan's signature SUV design. It features vertical lines and a gun metallic finish, a look complemented by the massive, body-colored bumpers. In the rear, the hard spare tire half-cover is designed around the motif of an auxiliary fuel tank. The KIX comes in six attractive body colors, including Medium Gray Metallic (M).
Inside, the KIX interior projects a refined, sporty image based on a black monotone color scheme, which imparts a sporty, refined impression. The versatile seating arrangements and luggage area, with an abundance of handy storage areas, attests to the meticulous attention paid to convenience and functionality. Covering the seats is a sporty-looking black fabric adorned with blue points. The KIX also offers high eye point (1,399 millimeters from the ground), which gives the driver excellent forward and rearward visibility, making the KIX easy to drive.
Outstanding All-Around Performance Powering the Nissan KIX is the A430 intercooled turbo inline 4-cylinder engine. This refined single overhead camshaft (SOHC) 16-valve engine delivers powerful and smooth performance in all types of situations, from around-town driving to expressway cruising or navigating mountain roads.
KIX's wide track and a long wheelbase ensure excellent straight-line stability and outstanding ride comfort. The front strut suspension is combined with a 5-link coil-spring rear suspension to provide improved ride quality, handling and stability for greater driving comfort. Thanks to its compact body and transversely mounted engine, the KIX achieves a minimum turning radius of 4.8 meters for nimble maneuverability.
Along with the exceptional driving performance provided by the efficient turbocharged engine, the KIX is fitted with an easy-to-select 4WD system for superb dynamic performance at all times. Changing between 2WD and 4WD operating modes is made easy by the transfer case shift lever.
In addition, the combination of ample road clearance (approach angle: 38°, departure angle: 46°, and minimum ground clearance: 195 mm) and large 15-inch diameter tires helps KIX deliver impressive rough-road driving performance.
