When Nissan developed the second-generation KICKS, the focus was clearly on resetting expectations for what an entry-level crossover can reasonably offer. Rather than leaning on cosmetic updates alone, the new KICKS arrives as a full redesign that places safety systems and in-car technology at the center of the ownership experience, while keeping pricing within reach of first-time buyers and urban drivers.
In the UAE, the model is being introduced by Arabian Automobiles Company, the exclusive Nissan distributor for Dubai, Sharjah, and the Northern Emirates and part of the AW Rostamani Group. With a starting price of AED 79,900, the KICKS positions itself as an accessible option in a segment where advanced driver assistance is often limited or entirely absent.
One of the most notable additions is Nissan’s ProPILOT system, which brings a form of semi-autonomous assistance typically seen in higher-priced vehicles. On highways, the system can manage steering, acceleration, and braking while maintaining lane position and a set following distance. It is not designed to replace driver attention, but it does reduce fatigue during long commutes or congested traffic, particularly on multi-lane roads common across Dubai and the wider UAE.
Safety coverage extends beyond highway assistance. Predictive Forward Collision Warning monitors traffic patterns further ahead, while Automatic Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Detection add another layer of intervention when risks escalate. Blind Spot Intervention and Lane Departure Prevention move past simple alerts by actively assisting with corrective steering when necessary. The Around View Monitor, using four exterior cameras, provides a stitched overhead view that simplifies parking and low-speed maneuvering in tight urban spaces.
Inside, higher trims introduce a wide 24.6-inch digital display that merges the instrument cluster and infotainment screen into a single panel. The interface is clean and responsive, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto alongside wireless charging. A panoramic sunroof and ambient lighting help the cabin feel more open, while the Bose-branded audio system adds a level of refinement not usually associated with compact crossovers.
Externally, the KICKS adopts sharper proportions, LED lighting signatures, and available two-tone paint options. The design choices aim for visual clarity rather than excess, with 19-inch alloy wheels and a floating roof effect adding distinction without overwhelming the compact footprint.
For buyers prioritizing safety technology, everyday usability, and manageable ownership costs, the new KICKS presents a balanced proposition. Backed by a five-year warranty and roadside assistance package, and supported by a long-established dealer network, it reflects a practical approach to modern urban mobility rather than an attempt to overpromise.
