The 2nd-gen Nissan Kicks gets adventurous with the Rock Creek package

While we’re soon to be getting a heavily updated Nissan Kicks e-Power in our country, there’s no getting around the fact that it isn’t the latest-generation model, as the United States and Japan get an all-new model that looks entirely different inside and out. In fact, it first came out in the US two years before Japan got the same version with e-Power.

READ: Japan just got a newer Nissan Kicks e-Power that we won’t be getting

For the 2027 model year in the US, Nissan is adding the Rock Creek package trim that was first seen on the Rogue (X-Trail) and Pathfinder, which gives it a more off-road-oriented appeal; however, it still doesn’t use the e-Power powertrain that Japan gets.

Instead, it uses the 2.0-liter Inline 4-cylinder MR20DD gasoline engine that produces 141 horsepower and 190 Nm of torque, mated to an Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). Kudos to Nissan for actually making this variant appropriate for what it will do, as it comes with AWD as standard, a dedicated off-road mode with unique traction control tuning, and hill descent control.

Cosmetically, this comes with unique 17-inch wheels, a Rock Creek-exclusive grille, and gloss black exterior trims like those found on the mirrors, front and lower fascias, roof rails and cross bars that are rated to carry up to 74kg, and also amber daytime running lights and accent lighting.

The interior now gets TailorFit upholstery with accent stitching on the seats adn steering wheel, and Rock Creek branded floor mats, and also additional kit in ambient lighting, an upgraded 360-degree camera, heated front seats, heated mirrors, and rear heater ducts, and Rear Automatic Emergency Braking for its Nissan ProPilot Assist kit.

Should Nissan Philippines introduce off-road-oriented trims like the Rock Creek package to standard models like the Kicks, or prioritize those like the Pro-4X trims on the Navara?

^{Photos from Nissan}