Nissan Releases New KIX Mini SUV in Japan

Product sharing is a fairly common practice in Japan when it comes to vehicles that belong in the mini and the so-called "Kei car" segments. The new Nissan KIX that went on sale today in Japan is a rebadged Mitsubishi Pajero Mini with a few minor styling changes. The mini SUV is offered with Mitsubishi's miniscule 0,6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that delivers an output of 64HP and is mated to either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The KIX features a standard 4WD system that allows changes between 2WD and 4WD operating modes by a transfer case shift lever. -Continued

According to Nissan, the 4-seater KIX boasts ample road clearance with an approach angle of 38°, departure angle of 46°, and minimum ground clearance of 195 mm. The Japanese automaker has set a domestic sales target of 300 units per month. Prices for the KIX begin from 1,402,800 yen which comes to about $14,500 at current exchange rates.