History / Overview

Nissan added the Kicks to its lineup in 2018 as the entry-point to its crossover lineup. It ostensibly replaces the Juke in the subcompact crossover class, but is a true entry-level model, where the Juke was intended for a more sport-seeking audience.

What's New / Key Changes from Last Year

For 2020, the Kicks gains standard safety gear in Nissan's Safety Shield 360 suite of assists. It adds forward collision warning/pedestrian detection, automatic braking, rear emergency braking, land departure warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and automatic high beams.

SV and SR trims also get a driver alertness system and rear door alert.

The only non safety-related change is the SR's addition of a rear spoiler.

Available Trims

Nissan offers the Kicks in S, SV and SR trims. All share a 1.6L engine, a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. AWD is not available.

Standard Features

Kicks S comes equipped with 16-inch steel wheels with covers, fog lights, power-adjustable side mirrors, a 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, Bluetooth, air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, automatic high beams, push-button ignition, cruise control, tilt-and-telescopic steering, manual front seat adjustments, and cloth upholstery.

Standard safety items include blind spot and rear cross traffic alerts, lane departure warning, forward collision alert with pedestrian detection and automatic braking, rear intelligent automatic braking, and tire pressure monitoring.

SV trim adds 17-inch alloy wheels, auto on/off headlights, heated side mirrors, a 7.0-inch driver assist display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic climate control, rear door alert, intelligent driver alertness, passive keyless entry, lighted vanity mirrors, a cargo cover, heated front seats, and satellite radio.

Finally, SR trim brings LED headlights with LED signature lighting, silver roof rails, surround-view exterior cameras, remote engine start, prima-tex seat upholstery, leather-trimmed steering wheel and shifter, prima-tex instrument panel trim with orange stitching, and a Bose stereo with headrest speakers.

Fuel Economy

Nissan's fuel consumption estimates for the Kicks are 7.7/6.6 L/100 km (city/highway).

Competition

The Kicks competes in a relatively new class of little crossovers that are technically smaller than established subcompact models, like Nissan's own Qashqai. Its only direct competitor is the Hyundai Venue, but the Kicks' price and the lack of an AWD option means it's also a viable alternative to subcompact cars such as the Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, Honda Fit, and Toyota Yaris.