Nissan has given its compact Kicks SUV a tougher new personality for the Japanese market with the introduction of the Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK, a special-edition model developed by Nissan Motorsports & Customizing Co., Ltd. (NMC).
The Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK will go on sale nationwide through Nissan dealers in Japan on December 23, bringing a more rugged, outdoor-focused appearance, exclusive interior finishes and additional equipment to the Kicks lineup.
Building on the popularity of the X-Trail ROCK CREEK, the new Kicks ROCK CREEK is designed for buyers who want a compact SUV with a more adventurous visual character without sacrificing everyday usability.
Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK Gets a Rugged New Look
The most obvious changes to the Kicks ROCK CREEK are found on the outside, where Nissan has adopted a predominantly black design theme combined with distinctive Lava Red accents.
At the front, the special model receives a ROCK CREEK-exclusive grille featuring three silver slots, complemented by a gloss-black bumper and a dedicated front under-protector. The latter incorporates silver and Lava Red detailing inspired by the appearance of molten lava.
The rugged treatment continues toward the rear with a Dark Metal Gray-finished rear bumper, while matte-black side-sill finishers and black door handles further reinforce the SUV’s tougher appearance.
Black roof rails are also available, adding to the Kicks ROCK CREEK’s outdoor-oriented character and providing a practical touch for customers who regularly carry outdoor equipment.
Exclusive 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels complete the exterior package. The wheels feature Lava Red accents and distinctive rock-mark embossing, giving the special edition a visual identity that separates it from the standard Kicks.
Black and Lava Red Interior
The interior of the Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK follows the same design philosophy as the exterior.
The cabin is predominantly black, but Lava Red accents are used extensively throughout the interior to create a more distinctive atmosphere. The seats, door trim, instrument panel, center console and steering wheel all receive contrasting details.
One of the most practical upgrades is the water-repellent seat material. Nissan says the material is suitable for a wide range of activities, including outdoor use, making the ROCK CREEK particularly appealing to buyers who want a compact SUV that can handle an active lifestyle.
The cabin also features carbon-look trim on the instrument panel and front door armrests, while the front door trims use synthetic leather with Lava Red accents.
A tailor-fit-wrapped steering wheel adds another premium touch and incorporates its own Lava Red detailing and black-and-red Nissan emblem.
Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK Offers 2WD and e-4ORCE AWD
The Kicks ROCK CREEK is available with two drivetrain configurations in Japan.
The standard ROCK CREEK uses a 2WD layout, while buyers looking for additional traction can choose the Kicks ROCK CREEK e-4ORCE with four-wheel drive.
The e-4ORCE system is paired with Nissan’s electrified powertrain technology and is intended to provide enhanced traction and control in a variety of driving conditions. This makes the AWD version particularly suited to customers who regularly encounter snow, wet roads or unpaved surfaces.
Both versions use Nissan’s HR14DDe engine/motor configuration, with the four-wheel-drive model identified as HR14DDe (YM52-MM48).
ROCK CREEK Utility Spec Adds More Technology
For customers who want more equipment, Nissan offers the Kicks ROCK CREEK Utility Spec and Kicks ROCK CREEK e-4ORCE Utility Spec.
These higher-specification versions add a range of convenience, comfort and safety features.
Among the upgrades is the NissanConnect Infotainment System [Simple], along with a power driver’s seat offering slide, recline and lifter adjustment.
The Utility Spec also includes a remote-controlled automatic back door and black roof rails, making the Kicks more convenient for everyday use and outdoor activities.
Nissan has also equipped the higher-grade models with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance and visibility technologies.
These include an Intelligent Rear View Mirror and an Intelligent Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection and 3D View. The system is designed to provide the driver with a clearer view around the vehicle, particularly when maneuvering in confined spaces.
The Utility Spec also adds Intelligent BSI (Blind Spot Intervention), Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and a front/rear drive recorder.
Cold-weather equipment is available as part of the package as well, including the Hot Plus Package, Clear View Package and high-concentration antifreeze.
Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK Colors
The Kicks ROCK CREEK is offered with several exterior paint options, including a distinctive two-tone Dark Metal Gray and Super Black combination.
The available colors are:
- Dark Metal Gray / Super Black two-tone (#GAQ), special paint
- Pure White Pearl (#QAC), special paint
- Crystal Brown (#CBF), special paint
- Super Black (#KH3)
The two-tone Dark Metal Gray and Super Black combination arguably best emphasizes the ROCK CREEK’s rugged design, while Super Black provides a more understated appearance.
Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK Price in Japan
Despite its extensive styling and equipment upgrades, Nissan offers the Kicks ROCK CREEK in several configurations to suit different customer requirements.
The Japanese-market pricing is as follows:
- Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK 2WD: ¥3,485,900
- Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK Utility Spec 2WD: ¥3,996,300
- Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK e-4ORCE 4WD: ¥3,880,800
- Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK e-4ORCE Utility Spec: ¥4,309,800
The e-4ORCE model therefore commands a premium over the standard 2WD version, while the Utility Spec versions add a substantial amount of additional technology and convenience equipment.
A Compact SUV With a More Adventurous Personality
With the Kicks ROCK CREEK, Nissan Motorsports & Customizing is taking a familiar compact SUV and giving it a more distinctive personality.
The combination of black exterior styling, Lava Red accents, exclusive 17-inch wheels and water-repellent seats gives the special edition a clear visual identity, while the available e-4ORCE drivetrain and expanded safety technology make the model more than just a cosmetic upgrade.
The introduction also extends Nissan’s ROCK CREEK concept beyond the larger X-Trail, giving buyers in Japan a smaller SUV with the same outdoor-inspired theme.
For drivers looking for a compact crossover that stands out from the standard Kicks, the Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK offers a compelling combination of distinctive styling, practical equipment and available four-wheel-drive capability.
Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK Specifications and Pricing
Model: Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK
Drivetrain: 2WD
Engine/motor: HR14DDe (YM52)
Base grade: X
Price: ¥3,485,900
Model: Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK Utility Spec
Drivetrain: 2WD
Engine/motor: HR14DDe (YM52)
Base grade: X+
Price: ¥3,996,300
Model: Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK e-4ORCE
Drivetrain: 4WD
Engine/motor: HR14DDe (YM52-MM48)
Base grade: X e-4ORCE
Price: ¥3,880,800
Model: Nissan Kicks ROCK CREEK e-4ORCE Utility Spec
Drivetrain: 4WD
Engine/motor: HR14DDe (YM52-MM48)
Base grade: X+ e-4ORCE
Price: ¥4,309,800
Source: Nissan