The market is shifting, and while sedans and hatchbacks might be dwindling, affordable options are still available in the form of crossovers and utility vehicles. The redesigned 2025 Nissan Kicks is a prime example of this trend, offering a fresh take on the budget-friendly compact SUV.
Side view of the redesigned 2025 Nissan Kicks in a desert landscape, showcasing its updated styling and proportions.
(Full disclosure: Nissan provided transportation and accommodation in Santa Barbara, California, for the reviewer to test drive the Kicks.)
The 2025 Kicks represents a significant overhaul from its predecessor. Nissan has amplified its appeal with a more powerful engine, increased dimensions, enhanced ground clearance, and for the first time, the option of all-wheel drive (AWD). Under the hood, the previous 1.6-liter engine is replaced by a larger 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine, now delivering 141 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
In terms of size, the new Kicks has grown in all key dimensions. It’s over 2 inches longer, 1.6 inches wider, and almost an inch taller than the previous generation. Ground clearance also sees a substantial increase, now standing at 8.4 inches compared to the previous 7 inches. This growth translates to a more spacious interior, with Nissan claiming a 3 cubic feet increase in passenger volume and a cargo area that expands by 4.7 cubic feet to a total of 30 cubic feet.
The available all-wheel drive system is designed to maximize efficiency, primarily operating in front-wheel drive (FWD) mode and engaging the rear wheels only when additional traction is required. Opting for AWD also brings a multilink rear suspension and a Snow mode, which utilizes the brakes and torque distribution to improve handling on slippery surfaces.
Front interior view of the 2025 Nissan Kicks showcasing the dashboard, steering wheel, and infotainment screens, highlighting the modern design and technology.
Nissan is positioning the 2025 Kicks to compete directly with models like the Hyundai Kona, Chevrolet Trax, and Kia Soul, targeting younger, budget-conscious buyers as well as active empty nesters seeking a practical and affordable vehicle.
Regardless of the target demographic, the new Kicks offers improved driving dynamics and a more visually appealing design. However, it’s important to remember its position in the affordable segment. Like other vehicles in this class, some cost-saving measures are evident, though not necessarily detrimental to the overall package.
Front three-quarter view of the 2025 Nissan Kicks in motion on a coastal highway, emphasizing its updated front fascia and dynamic styling.
Driving Dynamics and Performance
The on-road performance of the 2025 Nissan Kicks is a pleasant surprise. While not designed for sporty driving, the handling is competent and composed. The Kicks tracks well, feels planted on the road, and exhibits minimal body roll. The steering provides decent feedback and requires little adjustment during cornering.
Sport mode enhances the driving experience slightly, offering a bit more responsiveness. The ride quality strikes a good balance between firmness and comfort, at least on smooth California roads. However, some bumps can unsettle the vehicle.
While low-end torque has been improved with the larger engine, performance at higher RPMs remains a challenge. Steep inclines require full throttle and still feel strained. The engine can also become noisy and somewhat unrefined at higher speeds, and road noise intrusion into the cabin is noticeable despite increased sound insulation efforts. It’s worth noting that sound deadening is often a cost-sensitive area in this vehicle class.
The CVT generally performs adequately, though occasional drone can be present depending on driving style. Braking performance is described as smooth and consistent.
Interior Design and Features
Inside, the 2025 Kicks presents some appealing design elements that elevate its perceived quality, alongside materials that reflect its budget-friendly nature. Soft-touch materials on the upper door panels and a carbon-fiber-look trim across the dashboard are positive surprises for this price point. Even the upper dashboard trim is considered better than expected in this segment. However, the headliner material is noticeably basic.
The test vehicles were top-tier SR trims equipped with AWD. While front-wheel-drive models were available, they were not tested. Nissan’s “zero gravity” seats, despite the marketing term, are reported to be comfortable for extended periods. Rear legroom is adequate for taller adults, though the sloping roofline slightly reduces headroom in the back.
Rear interior view of the 2025 Nissan Kicks showcasing the rear seats, legroom, and the sloping roofline, highlighting passenger space and design.
The inclusion of dual 12.3-inch screens for infotainment and instrumentation is a standout feature, offering a modern and user-friendly interface. Wireless phone charging and wireless Apple CarPlay are also available. The HVAC controls are haptic touch-based and function effectively. Optional Bose in-headrest speakers are a unique feature, delivering impressive audio quality with adjustable volume levels. While audio quality varied slightly across different music genres, the overall sound performance was commendable.
Factory navigation is not offered, as Nissan anticipates most users will rely on smartphone-based navigation via CarPlay or Android Auto.
ProPilot Assist, Nissan’s driver-assistance technology, is available and shows slight improvements over previous versions. It effectively maintains lane centering and adapts to road curves.
Pricing and Trims
The 2025 Nissan Kicks starts at an MSRP of $21,830 for the base S trim. All-wheel drive is available across all trim levels. The base S trim includes Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and smart cruise control as standard features.
The SV trim, starting at $23,680 for FWD and $25,330 for AWD, adds wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless device charging, and the first 12.3-inch screen. A Premium Package is available for the SV trim, adding heated front seats, a panoramic moonroof, and heated mirrors for an additional $1,500.
The top-tier SR trim, as tested, starts at $26,180 for FWD and $27,680 for AWD. It includes the second 12.3-inch screen for the infotainment system, a 360-degree camera, and ProPilot Assist. An SR Premium Package, priced at $1,950, adds a panoramic moonroof, Bose audio with headrest speakers, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, and remote start.
The fully loaded SR test vehicle, including splash guards, 19-inch alloy wheels, and destination fees, reached a reasonable price of $31,875.
Fuel economy is rated at 28 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 31 mpg combined for FWD models, and 27/34/30 mpg for AWD versions.
Rear three-quarter view of the 2025 Nissan Kicks highlighting the taillights, rear bumper, and overall rear design.
Safety Shield 360 encompasses automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, high-beam assist, lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear automatic braking. Additional available ADAS features include predictive forward-collision warning, blind-spot intervention, lane-departure prevention, emergency lane-keep assist, intersection assist, traffic-sign recognition, and front parking sensors.
Competitive Comparison
Nissan is directly targeting the Kia Soul, Chevrolet Trax, and Hyundai Kona with the 2025 Kicks. While it may not be a perfect bullseye, it’s certainly in the vicinity. The Chevrolet Trax has significantly improved, becoming a strong contender in the segment. The Hyundai Kona might offer a slightly more refined interior, particularly in higher trims, and provides more powerful engine options, but also comes at a higher price, especially in upper trim levels. A loaded Kicks could potentially offer a better value proposition compared to a similarly equipped Kona.
The Kia Soul, a long-standing competitor, is comparable to the Kicks in terms of driving dynamics, noise levels, power, and pricing, although the Soul does not offer AWD.
Conclusion: Is the 2025 Nissan Kicks a Good Buy?
The 2025 Nissan Kicks represents a significant step forward from its predecessor, offering increased size, improved driving dynamics, and a more comprehensive feature set while maintaining an affordable price point. Compared to the previous generation, the new Kicks offers a much more compelling package in terms of driving experience and available features.
While there is still room for refinement, particularly in engine noise and performance at higher RPMs, the 2025 Nissan Kicks is a competitive option in the budget-friendly compact SUV segment. It avoids the pitfalls of being a “penalty box” often associated with entry-level vehicles and offers genuine reasons for buyers to consider it, alongside competitors like the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Venue, and Subaru Crosstrek.
The improved driving dynamics and the availability of desirable features without exceeding the $30,000 mark are key selling points for the 2025 Kicks. While engine and road noise are minor drawbacks, the overall package presents a stylish, reasonably engaging, and comfortable small utility vehicle with a decent array of convenience features. Nissan has successfully elevated the Kicks beyond just a style-focused offering, making it a more well-rounded and competitive contender in the market.
[Images © 2024 Tim Healey/TTAC.com, Nissan]
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