Revised: October 16, 2023
Shoppers looking for an affordable entry-level model might consider the burgeoning small or subcompact crossover utility vehicle range. The Nissan Kicks, for example, is one such model, a tiny CUV with room for up to five. This front-wheel-drive-only model is one of the most affordable new vehicles anywhere, with ample standard equipment and a streamlined trim line.
Chronicling the Changes
2024 — New for the 2024 model year, Kicks SV and SR include NissanConnect Services as standard. Also, the service now includes a three-year trail, up from the previous six months.
2023 – Once again, there are no significant changes this year.
2022 – There are no significant changes this year.
2021 – Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration are now standard. New front and rear styling, including a pronounced “V-Motion” grille are apparent. Inside, improved cloth is found on all but the base trim.
2020 – The Nissan Safety Shield 360 is now standard across all grades. This driver-assist package features such as automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and high beam assist. The previously standard roof rails are now optional.
2019 – No significant changes this year although performance drops slightly to 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque from the previous 125/115.
2018 – After seven years of the Nissan Juke’s polarizing design, the Nissan Kicks was born. Where the Juke was and is controversial, the Kicks’ design is much more conventional. Unfortunately, the Juke’s available stick shift and optional all-wheel drive do not carry forward to the Juke. Thus, the latest tiny Nissan model doesn’t have its predecessor’s driving dynamics. Nevertheless, the Kicks is efficient thanks to its 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission. Upon its introduction, the Kicks comes in S, SV, and SR grades.
First-Generation Nissan Kicks
Nissan Kicks Considerations
The category for the smallest crossovers is heating up as manufacturers continue to do away with most car models. The Kicks and most competitors offer a reasonable starting point for consumers although crossovers still cost thousands of dollars more than similar car models.
Among the models to compare include the Chevrolet Trailhawk, Ford EcoSport, Kia Seltos, Fiat 500X, Hyundai Kona, and the Jeep Renegade. The Buick Encore, Toyota CH-R, Honda HR-V, Volkswagen Taos, Subaru Crosstrek, Mazda CX-30, and the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross are a few other models to consider.
See Also — History of the Nissan Juke
Photo Attribution
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