Making advanced safety and (electric) efficiency affordable

Nissan Kicks e-Power VL

- By ERIC TIPAN

It has been a couple of years since Nissan launched the Kicks e-Power, and it has, without a doubt, done very well. The price has also dropped by P30,000 since then, but the features still remain. I checked out what the VL top-of-the-line grade offers at P1.479 million.

After two years, and since seeing the second-generation model launched last year in the USA, the Stormtrooper look of the (white) first-gen Kicks e-Power suddenly feels old. Thankfully, the distinct and eye-catching Premium Corona Orange (exclusive to the VL) with the two-tone black roof still lets it stand out in traffic. If you have plans to get a variant of this color, I advise getting the exterior ceramic coating to preserve the sparkly finish.

If you're Googling images of its predecessor, don't get your hopes up just yet. The stateside version has no hybrid powertrain and uses a different platform. But it would be awesome if an update or the next-gen model in the PH would be sleeker, wider, and a bit longer for better aero efficiency and a roomier cabin. I also wouldn't mind a power tailgate in the future.

One of the things you will like about the Kicks e-Power is that most of its exterior features are standard across all trims. Aside from the two-tone exterior, what sets the VL apart are LED front fog lights and an auto on/off feature on the headlamps.