If you’ve ever set foot on a car lot or headed online to research the latest vehicles, you have probably noticed there are more than a few choices to consider when selecting the right one for you. However, few have the same quirky styling, impressive functionality, and sophisticated technology that the 2025 Nissan Kicks offers. Add in Nissan’s solid reputation for dependability and an affordable price tag, and all the squares on your bingo care are likely covered. The truth is that the newest Kicks found at your local Nissan dealer is an enticing option for anybody searching for a multipurpose vehicle for daily commutes, weekend adventures, and much more.
Exploring the Ins and Outs of the 2025 Nissan Kicks
The 2025 Nissan Kicks is a subcompact SUV that seats up to five passengers. With an estimated fuel economy of 28 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway, it’s an excellent choice for drivers who want efficiency without sacrificing flair. Of course, the starting price of just under $22,000 doesn’t hurt either. The Kicks initially debuted for the 2018 model year in the United States, but it was first unveiled in 2014 as a concept car. If you watched the 2016 Olympics, you might remember that the Kicks was showcased as the lead vehicle in the torch relay convoy that traveled through Rio de Janeiro prior to the opening ceremony. Since then, interest in the SUV has only grown, making it a top contender in the subcompact category.
Today, the Kicks is in its second generation and offers drivers a choice of three trims. Even the top trim starts at just $26,180, meaning you can choose one with all the bells and whistles and still keep to your budget. Each of those three trims can be found with all-wheel drive, which is new for this model year. If you choose an all-wheel drive Kicks, you’ll be happy to know that even the top-tier model has a starting price of under $28,000, which is still within many drivers’ budgets, especially for everything the vehicle offers.
With the overview wrapped up, it’s time to get down to the details and truly start to learn why the Kicks might be the best option for your next ride. We’ll cover everything from performance to safety to technology and a few things in between.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the 2025 Kicks has a new 2.0L inline-four engine that gives you 141 horsepower. That engine is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). If you’re unfamiliar with this type of transmission, it offers a number of benefits, including increased fuel efficiency and a smoother driving experience. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions, which have a fixed number of gears, a CVT automatically adjusts its gear ratios to keep the engine in its ideal power range. This helps the engine function more effectively, resulting in higher fuel economy. Additionally, the seamless transitions between gear ratios remove the noticeable shifts found in normal transmissions, resulting in a more comfortable ride. You’ll also find that CVTs are often lighter, which contributes to increased vehicle performance, and they may respond better to changing driving conditions, providing quick acceleration when necessary.
Trim Levels
As mentioned above, there are three trim levels for the 2025 Nissan Kicks, and each of those three offers an all-wheel drive option. That all-wheel drive system includes a Snow mode that gives you more confidence during the winter months thanks to the system’s ability to adjust quickly to slippery road conditions. The three trims include the S, the SV, and the SR, with the SR being the top trim. Some of the key features of each trim are as follows:
Kicks S
The base trim offers a number of amenities, including remote keyless entry, a seven-inch touchscreen display, RearView Monitor, and Safety Shield 360, which is Nissan’s collection of driver assist safety features. This suite goes above and beyond, including features like Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Rear Automatic Braking standard.
Kicks SV
The SV builds on the S trim, adding more technology and comfort features for an even better driving experience. Some of those features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration with a NissanConnect 12.3-inch touchscreen display.
Kicks SR
The top trim level, the SR, features sporty styling and modern technology, making it a great choice for drivers looking for a well-rounded subcompact SUV that is fun to drive. It has the same 12.3-inch digital touchscreen display as the SV, as well as a 12.3-inch multi-function information display. Additionally, the class-exclusive Intelligent Around View Monitor makes it easier than ever before to navigate in tight spaces.
Interior and Comfort
The first thing you’ll notice as you slip inside the Nissan Kicks is the comfort it provides, with available premium fabric and leatherette upholstery options. It also offers a wide view of the road ahead, which enhances the driving experience. As far as cargo space goes, it provides 30 cubic feet behind the second row. That space increases when the rear seats are folded down, offering up to 60 cubic feet. In addition, you can make the cargo space work for you by utilizing the 60/40-split fold-down second row. Even better? The 2025 Kicks has a flexible cargo floor, which helps you haul taller items in one simple step.
Technology
As mentioned above, the S base trim offers a seven-inch touchscreen display, while the SV and SR trims have a 12.3-inch touchscreen display. Those displays house everything you might need during the trip, including your favorite playlist or podcast. You can also connect a compatible phone to gain access to directions, restaurant recommendations, and anything else you might need. Not only is the infotainment system user-friendly, but you’ll also find that higher trim levels have an optional 10-speaker Bose premium audio system for a better entertainment experience. Last but not least, you’ll have plenty of USB charging ports to keep you and your passengers’ digital devices charged and ready to go.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Nissan has long been known for its strong focus on safety, which is why you’ll find that the Kicks and other vehicles in the lineup have some of the latest systems installed. For instance, some of the standard features found on the 2025 Kicks include Intelligent Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Rear Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Warning, and Lane Departure Warning. On the top-tier SR trim, you’ll also gain access to ProPILOT Assist Hands-On. This advanced driver assistance system improves safety and convenience while driving on the highway. It combines adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance to help you maintain a predetermined speed, remain a safe distance from the automobile in front of you, and stay centered in your lane.
A Lot for the Money
The 2025 Nissan Kicks offers a lot of features for the price, making it a wise investment for a wide range of drivers. Plus, its smaller footprint makes it easy to negotiate city streets and tight parking spaces. You’ll also find that the long list of safety features and high crash test ratings give you peace of mind as you travel from point A to point B, whether you’re alone in the car or have friends and family with you. Additionally, Nissan went above and beyond by adding an all-wheel drive option to each trim level so you can choose the right version for you.
Ultimately, the Nissan Kicks is an affordable, stylish, and well-equipped subcompact SUV. With its blend of safety features, modern technology, and efficient performance, it’s an appealing option for when you need a vehicle for daily use. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or searching for a practical second car, the Kicks is well worth considering.
