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Benefits
Trade-Offs
Easy to park and maneuver in tight city streets and crowded parking lots.
Cabin gets noticeably loud at highway speeds, making calls and conversations harder.
Supportive front and rear seats reduce fatigue on long commutes and weekend trips.
Generally firm suspension—on 19-inch wheels bumps feel sharp, tiring on longer trips.
Optional AWD with Snow mode adds confident traction in rain, snow, and slick roads.
CVT can drone and feel sluggish during passing, distracting and awkward on highways.
Class-leading cargo fits strollers, sports gear, or weekend luggage without folding seats.
Rear legroom feels cramped for taller adults, uncomfortable during school runs or road trips.
Advanced driver aids (ProPILOT, Safety Shield) lower worry during daily commutes and parking.
Benefits
Easy to park and maneuver in tight city streets and crowded parking lots.
Supportive front and rear seats reduce fatigue on long commutes and weekend trips.
Optional AWD with Snow mode adds confident traction in rain, snow, and slick roads.
Class-leading cargo fits strollers, sports gear, or weekend luggage without folding seats.
Advanced driver aids (ProPILOT, Safety Shield) lower worry during daily commutes and parking.
Trade-Offs
Cabin gets noticeably loud at highway speeds, making calls and conversations harder.
Generally firm suspension—on 19-inch wheels bumps feel sharp, tiring on longer trips.
CVT can drone and feel sluggish during passing, distracting and awkward on highways.
Rear legroom feels cramped for taller adults, uncomfortable during school runs or road trips.
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Publications
8 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS
Andrew Wendler from Car and Driver highlights the 2025 Nissan Kicks as a significant step forward for the subcompact crossover, blending modern styling and practical upgrades while retaining some of its fun, budget-friendly character. The redesigned Kicks grows in size, offering more interior space and comfort, including Nissan’s Zero Gravity seats now standard in both rows. A key improvement is the new 141-hp 2.0-liter engine paired with optional all-wheel drive, enhancing responsiveness and handling without sacrificing fuel efficiency. Wendler appreciates the updated infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance features, and increased ground clearance, making the Kicks more competitive with rivals like the Mazda CX-30. However, he cautions against the optional 19-inch wheels due to ride quality issues and notes that all-wheel drive slightly reduces cargo space. Overall, the review conveys a balanced, moderately positive tone, recommending the mid-tier SV trim for its value and features, while acknowledging some trade-offs in performance and comfort.
Justin Banner from MotorTrend highlights the 2025 Nissan Kicks as a notable improvement over its predecessor, especially praising the AWD SR trim for its enhanced driving dynamics and increased cargo space. While the Kicks remains a quirky, compact SUV with a comfortable and well-equipped interior—including standout features like the dual 12.3-inch displays, ProPilot Assist, and Bose Personal Plus sound system—the review balances enthusiasm with measured critique. Banner notes the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine’s modest 140 hp limits acceleration, and the 19-inch tires introduce some road noise and vibration. Rear seating and headroom remain tight for taller passengers, though front seats offer good comfort and support. The AWD model’s multilink suspension delivers a more engaging ride compared to the FWD’s twist-beam setup, making it the preferred choice for those seeking better handling. Overall, the 2025 Kicks offers a compelling value in the subcompact SUV segment, with improvements that address past shortcomings while acknowledging some remaining compromises.
Andrew Wendler from Car and Driver highlights the 2025 Nissan Kicks as a significant step forward for the subcompact crossover, blending modern styling and practical upgrades while retaining some of its fun, budget-friendly character. The redesigned Kicks grows in size, offering more interior space and comfort, including Nissan’s Zero Gravity seats now standard in both rows. A key improvement is the new 141-hp 2.0-liter engine paired with optional all-wheel drive, enhancing responsiveness and handling without sacrificing fuel efficiency. Wendler appreciates the updated infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance features, and increased ground clearance, making the Kicks more competitive with rivals like the Mazda CX-30. However, he cautions against the optional 19-inch wheels due to ride quality issues and notes that all-wheel drive slightly reduces cargo space. Overall, the review conveys a balanced, moderately positive tone, recommending the mid-tier SV trim for its value and features, while acknowledging some trade-offs in performance and comfort.
Justin Banner from MotorTrend highlights the 2025 Nissan Kicks as a notable improvement over its predecessor, especially praising the AWD SR trim for its enhanced driving dynamics and increased cargo space. While the Kicks remains a quirky, compact SUV with a comfortable and well-equipped interior—including standout features like the dual 12.3-inch displays, ProPilot Assist, and Bose Personal Plus sound system—the review balances enthusiasm with measured critique. Banner notes the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine’s modest 140 hp limits acceleration, and the 19-inch tires introduce some road noise and vibration. Rear seating and headroom remain tight for taller passengers, though front seats offer good comfort and support. The AWD model’s multilink suspension delivers a more engaging ride compared to the FWD’s twist-beam setup, making it the preferred choice for those seeking better handling. Overall, the 2025 Kicks offers a compelling value in the subcompact SUV segment, with improvements that address past shortcomings while acknowledging some remaining compromises.
Andrew Wendler from Car and Driver highlights the 2025 Nissan Kicks as a significant step forward for the subcompact crossover, blending modern styling and practical upgrades while retaining some of its fun, budget-friendly character. The redesigned Kicks grows in size, offering more interior space and comfort, including Nissan’s Zero Gravity seats now standard in both rows. A key improvement is the new 141-hp 2.0-liter engine paired with optional all-wheel drive, enhancing responsiveness and handling without sacrificing fuel efficiency. Wendler appreciates the updated infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance features, and increased ground clearance, making the Kicks more competitive with rivals like the Mazda CX-30. However, he cautions against the optional 19-inch wheels due to ride quality issues and notes that all-wheel drive slightly reduces cargo space. Overall, the review conveys a balanced, moderately positive tone, recommending the mid-tier SV trim for its value and features, while acknowledging some trade-offs in performance and comfort.
Justin Banner from MotorTrend highlights the 2025 Nissan Kicks as a notable improvement over its predecessor, especially praising the AWD SR trim for its enhanced driving dynamics and increased cargo space. While the Kicks remains a quirky, compact SUV with a comfortable and well-equipped interior—including standout features like the dual 12.3-inch displays, ProPilot Assist, and Bose Personal Plus sound system—the review balances enthusiasm with measured critique. Banner notes the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine’s modest 140 hp limits acceleration, and the 19-inch tires introduce some road noise and vibration. Rear seating and headroom remain tight for taller passengers, though front seats offer good comfort and support. The AWD model’s multilink suspension delivers a more engaging ride compared to the FWD’s twist-beam setup, making it the preferred choice for those seeking better handling. Overall, the 2025 Kicks offers a compelling value in the subcompact SUV segment, with improvements that address past shortcomings while acknowledging some remaining compromises.
Andrew Wendler from Car and Driver highlights the 2025 Nissan Kicks as a significant step forward for the subcompact crossover, blending modern styling and practical upgrades while retaining some of its fun, budget-friendly character. The redesigned Kicks grows in size, offering more interior space and comfort, including Nissan’s Zero Gravity seats now standard in both rows. A key improvement is the new 141-hp 2.0-liter engine paired with optional all-wheel drive, enhancing responsiveness and handling without sacrificing fuel efficiency. Wendler appreciates the updated infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance features, and increased ground clearance, making the Kicks more competitive with rivals like the Mazda CX-30. However, he cautions against the optional 19-inch wheels due to ride quality issues and notes that all-wheel drive slightly reduces cargo space. Overall, the review conveys a balanced, moderately positive tone, recommending the mid-tier SV trim for its value and features, while acknowledging some trade-offs in performance and comfort.
Justin Banner from MotorTrend highlights the 2025 Nissan Kicks as a notable improvement over its predecessor, especially praising the AWD SR trim for its enhanced driving dynamics and increased cargo space. While the Kicks remains a quirky, compact SUV with a comfortable and well-equipped interior—including standout features like the dual 12.3-inch displays, ProPilot Assist, and Bose Personal Plus sound system—the review balances enthusiasm with measured critique. Banner notes the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine’s modest 140 hp limits acceleration, and the 19-inch tires introduce some road noise and vibration. Rear seating and headroom remain tight for taller passengers, though front seats offer good comfort and support. The AWD model’s multilink suspension delivers a more engaging ride compared to the FWD’s twist-beam setup, making it the preferred choice for those seeking better handling. Overall, the 2025 Kicks offers a compelling value in the subcompact SUV segment, with improvements that address past shortcomings while acknowledging some remaining compromises.
YouTube
16 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS
Consumer ReportsMike Quincy praises the 2025 Nissan Kicks for its affordable price, improved powertrain, and extensive standard safety features like adaptive cruise control. He highlights the upscale interior touches and playful handling but notes drawbacks including a noisy cabin, firm ride, and some cheap-feeling materials. Overall, it’s a fun, practical city SUV with thoughtful upgrades.
Auto Buyers Guide | Alex on AutosAlex on Autos praises the 2025 Nissan Kicks for its aggressive pricing, practical interior, and standard safety tech like adaptive cruise and blind-spot monitoring. The new AWD and independent rear suspension improve handling and ride quality. However, he notes modest power, cabin noise, and limited seat adjustability, making it solid but not standout in a crowded segment.
Consumer ReportsMike Quincy praises the 2025 Nissan Kicks for its affordable price, improved powertrain, and extensive standard safety features like adaptive cruise control. He highlights the upscale interior touches and playful handling but notes drawbacks including a noisy cabin, firm ride, and some cheap-feeling materials. Overall, it’s a fun, practical city SUV with thoughtful upgrades.
Auto Buyers Guide | Alex on AutosAlex on Autos praises the 2025 Nissan Kicks for its aggressive pricing, practical interior, and standard safety tech like adaptive cruise and blind-spot monitoring. The new AWD and independent rear suspension improve handling and ride quality. However, he notes modest power, cabin noise, and limited seat adjustability, making it solid but not standout in a crowded segment.
Consumer ReportsMike Quincy praises the 2025 Nissan Kicks for its affordable price, improved powertrain, and extensive standard safety features like adaptive cruise control. He highlights the upscale interior touches and playful handling but notes drawbacks including a noisy cabin, firm ride, and some cheap-feeling materials. Overall, it’s a fun, practical city SUV with thoughtful upgrades.
Auto Buyers Guide | Alex on AutosAlex on Autos praises the 2025 Nissan Kicks for its aggressive pricing, practical interior, and standard safety tech like adaptive cruise and blind-spot monitoring. The new AWD and independent rear suspension improve handling and ride quality. However, he notes modest power, cabin noise, and limited seat adjustability, making it solid but not standout in a crowded segment.
Consumer ReportsMike Quincy praises the 2025 Nissan Kicks for its affordable price, improved powertrain, and extensive standard safety features like adaptive cruise control. He highlights the upscale interior touches and playful handling but notes drawbacks including a noisy cabin, firm ride, and some cheap-feeling materials. Overall, it’s a fun, practical city SUV with thoughtful upgrades.
Auto Buyers Guide | Alex on AutosAlex on Autos praises the 2025 Nissan Kicks for its aggressive pricing, practical interior, and standard safety tech like adaptive cruise and blind-spot monitoring. The new AWD and independent rear suspension improve handling and ride quality. However, he notes modest power, cabin noise, and limited seat adjustability, making it solid but not standout in a crowded segment.
Consumer ReportsMike Quincy praises the 2025 Nissan Kicks for its affordable price, improved powertrain, and extensive standard safety features like adaptive cruise control. He highlights the upscale interior touches and playful handling but notes drawbacks including a noisy cabin, firm ride, and some cheap-feeling materials. Overall, it’s a fun, practical city SUV with thoughtful upgrades.
Auto Buyers Guide | Alex on AutosAlex on Autos praises the 2025 Nissan Kicks for its aggressive pricing, practical interior, and standard safety tech like adaptive cruise and blind-spot monitoring. The new AWD and independent rear suspension improve handling and ride quality. However, he notes modest power, cabin noise, and limited seat adjustability, making it solid but not standout in a crowded segment.
Consumer ReportsMike Quincy praises the 2025 Nissan Kicks for its affordable price, improved powertrain, and extensive standard safety features like adaptive cruise control. He highlights the upscale interior touches and playful handling but notes drawbacks including a noisy cabin, firm ride, and some cheap-feeling materials. Overall, it’s a fun, practical city SUV with thoughtful upgrades.
Auto Buyers Guide | Alex on AutosAlex on Autos praises the 2025 Nissan Kicks for its aggressive pricing, practical interior, and standard safety tech like adaptive cruise and blind-spot monitoring. The new AWD and independent rear suspension improve handling and ride quality. However, he notes modest power, cabin noise, and limited seat adjustability, making it solid but not standout in a crowded segment.
Consumer ReportsMike Quincy praises the 2025 Nissan Kicks for its affordable price, improved powertrain, and extensive standard safety features like adaptive cruise control. He highlights the upscale interior touches and playful handling but notes drawbacks including a noisy cabin, firm ride, and some cheap-feeling materials. Overall, it’s a fun, practical city SUV with thoughtful upgrades.
Auto Buyers Guide | Alex on AutosAlex on Autos praises the 2025 Nissan Kicks for its aggressive pricing, practical interior, and standard safety tech like adaptive cruise and blind-spot monitoring. The new AWD and independent rear suspension improve handling and ride quality. However, he notes modest power, cabin noise, and limited seat adjustability, making it solid but not standout in a crowded segment.
Consumer ReportsMike Quincy praises the 2025 Nissan Kicks for its affordable price, improved powertrain, and extensive standard safety features like adaptive cruise control. He highlights the upscale interior touches and playful handling but notes drawbacks including a noisy cabin, firm ride, and some cheap-feeling materials. Overall, it’s a fun, practical city SUV with thoughtful upgrades.
Auto Buyers Guide | Alex on AutosAlex on Autos praises the 2025 Nissan Kicks for its aggressive pricing, practical interior, and standard safety tech like adaptive cruise and blind-spot monitoring. The new AWD and independent rear suspension improve handling and ride quality. However, he notes modest power, cabin noise, and limited seat adjustability, making it solid but not standout in a crowded segment.
Social
3 INFLUENCER REVIEWS
AllcarnewsAllcarnews highlights the 2025 Nissan Kicks SR AWD as a fun, stylish, and competitively priced SUV with impressive fuel efficiency and a well-executed AWD system. They praise the customizable interior lighting, premium tech features, and value-packed options but note the stiffer suspension on larger wheels and less comfortable seats as drawbacks. Overall, Allcarnews finds the Kicks more capable than before and a solid choice in its segment, though it lacks standout powertrain variety and faces tough competition. The review offers a balanced, thoughtful recommendation for buyers seeking style and efficiency with some tradeoffs.
Forrest JonesForrest Jones highlights the 2025 Nissan Kicks as a stylish, practical city SUV with notable upgrades like all-wheel drive, a panoramic moonroof, heated seats, and advanced tech features including Bose headrest speakers and built-in Wi-Fi. He appreciates its compact size paired with surprisingly ample trunk space but notes the backseat remains tight. Overall, Forrest’s tone is enthusiastic and positive, emphasizing the Kicks’ fresh design and enhanced functionality while acknowledging its small rear passenger area. He presents the vehicle as a compelling choice for urban drivers seeking a well-equipped, fun-to-drive compact SUV with modern conveniences.
AllcarnewsAllcarnews highlights the 2025 Nissan Kicks SR AWD as a fun, stylish, and competitively priced SUV with impressive fuel efficiency and a well-executed AWD system. They praise the customizable interior lighting, premium tech features, and value-packed options but note the stiffer suspension on larger wheels and less comfortable seats as drawbacks. Overall, Allcarnews finds the Kicks more capable than before and a solid choice in its segment, though it lacks standout powertrain variety and faces tough competition. The review offers a balanced, thoughtful recommendation for buyers seeking style and efficiency with some tradeoffs.
Forrest JonesForrest Jones highlights the 2025 Nissan Kicks as a stylish, practical city SUV with notable upgrades like all-wheel drive, a panoramic moonroof, heated seats, and advanced tech features including Bose headrest speakers and built-in Wi-Fi. He appreciates its compact size paired with surprisingly ample trunk space but notes the backseat remains tight. Overall, Forrest’s tone is enthusiastic and positive, emphasizing the Kicks’ fresh design and enhanced functionality while acknowledging its small rear passenger area. He presents the vehicle as a compelling choice for urban drivers seeking a well-equipped, fun-to-drive compact SUV with modern conveniences.
Forum Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM
Reddit users express mixed feelings about the 2025 Nissan Kicks, appreciating its affordability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable driving experience, especially praising the AWD option and tech features like the 360-degree camera. However, critiques focus on persistent issues such as the CVT transmission reliability, limited storage, poor wireless charging, and problematic windshield wiper settings. Design opinions vary, with some liking the look while others find it outdated or impractical, particularly the manual liftgate. Safety concerns arise from dashboard glitches and early mechanical failures. Overall, new buyers tend to be cautiously optimistic, while those upgrading from older models highlight improvements but remain wary of lingering flaws.
Many comments
In-Depth Review
Highlights
- •Responsive 2.0L powertrainUpgraded engine improves everyday responsiveness
- •Available Intelligent AWD with Snow modeImproves traction in snow and ice
- •Advanced standard and available safety techIncludes Safety Shield 360 and ProPILOT
- •Strong fuel economy and rangeApproximately 31 mpg combined; ~372-mile range
- •Large cargo capacityMarketed as best-in-class at ~29 cu.ft.
- •Comfort-oriented Zero Gravity seatsSupportive seats front and rear
Considerations
- •CVT drone and reliability concernsNoisy CVT and forum-reported issues
- •Notable highway and road noiseCabin gets loud at highway speeds
- •Firm ride with large wheels19-inch wheels amplify harshness
- •Modest acceleration under hard throttle2.0L feels underpowered for passing
- •Limited rear passenger roomRear legroom feels tight for adults
- •Basic interior materials and adjustability limitsHard plastics and manual seats common
Real-world impressions of the 2025 Nissan Kicks are just beginning to take shape, but early signs point to a savvy urban contender with some fresh tricks up its sleeve. This subcompact crossover stakes its claim by pairing a responsive 2.0L engine with an optional Intelligent AWD featuring Snow mode, giving city drivers both pep and all-weather confidence without guzzling gas. Its segment-leading 8.4 inches of ground clearance adds unexpected off-road chops, while the best-in-class cargo space at over 29 cubic feet means weekend gear fits comfortably alongside daily essentials. Fuel economy hovers near an impressive 31 mpg combined, making it as thrifty as it is practical. Though not built for speed demons, this model strikes a clever balance between comfort—thanks to supportive Zero Gravity seats—and versatility in tight spaces or slick conditions. If you’re eyeing budget-friendly tech and real-world utility wrapped in bold styling, these features warrant your close attention; after all, sometimes less horsepower means more sense on the street.
Engine Performance
Under the hood, the 2.0L inline-4 engine delivers a modest yet sprightly 141 hp and 140 lb-ft torque, refreshing the Kicks’ personality with improved responsiveness over its predecessor’s timid powertrain. While acceleration can feel sluggish under hard throttle, especially on highways where the CVT drones a bit, this powerplant strikes a balance between efficiency and everyday usability for city drivers craving pep without gas-guzzling guilt. Experts note it's no speed demon but appreciate how it lifts the Kicks from bland to mildly engaging—a practical heart that keeps urban adventures lively.
Cargo Capacity and Interior Space
Space enthusiasts rejoice: boasting best-in-class cargo volume at over 29 cubic feet behind rear seats, plus supportive Zero Gravity seating front-to-back means long hauls stay comfy even if legroom tightens up back there somewhat—a common trade-off in small SUVs noted by critics wary of cramped quarters during school runs or road trips alike. Practicality scores high thanks to flexible storage options though some users grumble about manual liftgate quirks; still, overall interior cleverness elevates daily hauling tasks from chore to charm.
Ground Clearance and Off-Road Capability
With segment-leading 8.4 inches of ground clearance, this compact SUV confidently tackles rougher terrain than most competitors dare attempt without venturing full off-road beast territory. Combined with intelligent AWD’s Snow mode, it offers unexpected light adventure chops perfect for weekend escapes or dodging urban obstacles like curbs and potholes unscathed. Drivers report newfound confidence on gravel paths or snowy streets alike — proof that Nissan smartly upped not just height but utility here, ensuring you won’t sacrifice capability despite budget-friendly ambitions.
Fuel Economy and Range
Balancing spirited driving with frugality is where the Kicks shines; expect about 31 mpg combined in FWD models and just one mpg less with AWD engaged—numbers impressive given its class rivals often trade economy for muscle. The cleverly engineered active grille shutters paired with eco modes keep highway cruising efficient enough to stretch your tank nearly 372 miles per fill-up. Such savvy engineering earns nods from budget-conscious drivers who want their crossover capable yet thrifty—a rare blend that's music to city dwellers' ears longing for fewer stops at the pump.
All-Wheel Drive System
The introduction of Nissan's Intelligent AWD with Snow mode marks a significant upgrade for this subcompact SUV, offering confident traction in slick conditions while defaulting to FWD for fuel economy preservation. Reviewers praise its thoughtful calibration that doesn't penalize mileage heavily—hovering near 30 mpg—even as it boosts versatility beyond mere pavement duty. This system transforms the Kicks into an all-weather warrior ideal for winter commuters or light off-road escapades, striking an appealing chord among buyers who value both practicality and peace of mind when roads get treacherous.
Conclusion
Early impressions suggest the 2.0L engine delivers modest yet responsive power, ideal for urban zipping but less thrilling on open highways. The Intelligent AWD system with Snow mode adds a welcome layer of grip without harsh fuel penalties, making slick commutes less stressful. With an impressive 31 mpg combined and nearly 372 miles of range, efficiency stands tall alongside practicality. The standout 8.4-inch ground clearance grants surprising light off-road ability, letting you tackle curbs and gravel paths alike with confidence. Inside, the cabin impresses with its best-in-class cargo capacity and thoughtfully supportive Zero Gravity seats—though rear legroom is snug by adult standards. Braking feels confident, while handling strikes a balance between nimble city maneuvers and composed highway stability despite some road noise intrusions.
This package suits budget-conscious drivers craving versatile tech and sensible comfort rather than raw acceleration or plush luxury—a well-rounded contender that knows where to shine without overstating its reach.
Feature Scores
This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.
Performance
Engine Power
3/5
Acceleration
3/5
Towing Capacity
2/5
Fuel Efficiency
4/5
Reliability
3/5
Durability
3/5
Value
Purchase Price
4/5
Operating Cost
4/5
Resale Value
3/5
Design
Interior Space
4/5
Cargo Capacity
5/5
Ergonomics
3/5
Exterior Styling
4/5
Health
Cabin Air Quality
3/5
Interior Material Toxicity
3/5
Safety
Crashworthiness
3/5
Active Driver Assistance
4/5
Braking Performance
4/5
Visibility and Lighting
4/5
Sustainability
Tailpipe Emissions
3/5
Fuel Lifecycle Emissions
3/5
Use of Recycled Materials
2/5
End-of-Life Recyclability
2/5
Experience Style
Infotainment Features
4/5
Ride Comfort Tuning
4/5
Customization Options
4/5
Specifications
This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.
Performance
Value
Design
Safety
Sustainability
Experience Style
Frequently Asked Questions
3 Questions
