Nissan Kicks

Overview: Is the Nissan Kicks a Good Subcompact SUV?

The Nissan Kicks is a subcompact SUV that offers a combination of affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality since its introduction to the U.S. market for the 2018 model year. With its modest size, spacious interior, and efficient powertrain, the Kicks appeals to urban dwellers and budget-conscious buyers seeking a versatile, easy-to-maneuver vehicle. The Kicks competes in the growing subcompact SUV segment against rivals like the Honda HR-V, Kia Soul, Hyundai Kona, and Toyota C-HR. An all-new second-generation Nissan Kicks is set to hit the streets for the 2025 model year. Other Nissan crossovers and SUVs include the Rogue, Murano, Pathfinder, Armada, and the Ariya EV.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Nissan Kicks cars for sale.

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Key Features

The Nissan Kicks offers:

Subcompact SUV body style

• Two-row, five-passenger seating
• 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine
• Front-wheel drive
• Continuously variable transmission (CVT)

Trims

The Nissan Kicks is available in three trims: S, SV, and SR. The base S trim comes well-equipped with essentials like automatic headlights, a 7-inch touchscreen display, and Bluetooth connectivity. The SV trim includes 17-inch alloy wheels, an upgraded infotainment system, and remote engine start. The top-tier SR trim adds LED headlights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a Bose premium audio system.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

Despite its compact size, the Nissan Kicks interior is surprisingly spacious. The front seats provide ample headroom and legroom, while the rear seats easily accommodate two adults or three children. The Kicks' infotainment system is user-friendly, with a 7-inch touchscreen display and available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims offer additional tech features like a larger 8-inch touchscreen, a 7-inch digital driver display, and a Bose premium audio system. The Kicks comes standard with NissanConnect telematics and Nissan Safety Shield 360, a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features that includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional safety features like a 360-degree camera system and driver drowsiness monitoring are optional on higher trims. Cargo space is generous for the class, with 25.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 53.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

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How It Drives

The Nissan Kicks is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. While not the most powerful engine in its class, it provides adequate acceleration for city driving and merging onto highways. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) helps maximize fuel efficiency, up to 36 mpg, which also explains the Kicks’ modest performance. The front-wheel-drive-only Kicks is competent with most road conditions but lacks an upgrade for all-wheel-drive like some of the competition.

Safety

The Nissan Kicks has earned a good, but not great, four-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Reviews

Nissan Kicks reviews on Kelley Blue Book are primarily favorable. Owners rank this subcompact crossover highly for value, reliability, and style but are less flattering about performance, quality, and comfort.

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FAQs

Why is the Nissan Kicks so popular?

The Nissan Kicks has gained popularity due to several factors, including its affordable price point, excellent fuel economy, and spacious interior. The Kicks offers a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and efficient subcompact SUV that doesn’t break the bank.

Do Nissan Kicks have transmission problems?

Nissan has a reputation for troublesome continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), which are used in the Kicks. However, there are few recorded complaints of gearbox problems. This can be due to the issues being addressed or the Kicks being too new to encounter transmission problems. Buyers of used Kicks should always have a pre-purchase inspection performed before finalizing a purchase.

Is Nissan Kicks underpowered?

The Nissan Kicks' 122-horsepower four-cylinder engine may feel underpowered to some drivers, particularly when compared to more potent rivals in the subcompact SUV segment. However, the Kicks' engine is designed to prioritize fuel efficiency and provides adequate power for most daily driving situations.

What is the Nissan Kicks price?

A new Nissan Kicks starts at around $21,000 and can cost as much as $27,000 for a fully-equipped SR trim. CoPilot national listings show a used Nissan Kicks sells for $10,000 to $28,000, depending on age, condition, and equipment.

Can Nissan Kicks drive in snow?

The Nissan Kicks is equipped with front-wheel drive and is unavailable with all-wheel drive. As a result, it’s best suited for light snow and mild winter conditions with proper tires. It may not be the best choice for drivers who frequently encounter heavy snow. However, most urban dwellers and those in milder climates will find the Kicks' front-wheel-drive system to provide sufficient traction.

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