Nissan’s refreshed Kicks steps into a fiercely competitive segment of compact crossovers priced between $20,000 and $32,000. Rivals like the Chevrolet Trax, Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, Venue, Soul, and Toyota Corolla Cross make this a tough market to stand out in. For 2025, an optional all-wheel-drive system brings SUV versatility to the table, giving the Kicks a unique edge in its class.
With bold, contemporary styling, the exterior exudes confidence, while the cabin showcases surprisingly refined materials for its cost. While performance stays conservative, the range-topping trim is packed with features and remains under $31,000. This latest iteration positions itself as a practical bridge between budget-friendly crossovers and the stripped-down small cars of years past.
DESIGN
Nissan’s 2025 Kicks embraces a sleek, SUV-inspired aesthetic aimed at attracting first-time buyers. Its interior punches above its weight class with premium-feeling materials and practical features. Our test vehicle, the SR AWD trim ($1,950), impressed with amenities like a panoramic moonroof, Bose 10-speaker audio, heated steering wheel, and remote start—ideal for brightening commutes, enjoying immersive soundscapes, or staying cozy on chilly mornings.
Designed to mirror compact SUVs rather than hatchbacks, the Kicks caters to shifting consumer tastes. While hatchbacks once dominated this segment, Nissan pivoted to prioritize SUV-like practicality and style. Its boxy profile, bold front fascia, and omission of a rear side window reinforce its rugged intent. However, the noticeable wheel gap above the 19-inch alloys adds an unconventional element to its otherwise sharp proportions.
Up front, a horizontally stretched grille adds width to the design, offsetting the expanse of black plastic below it. The body-colored bumper refines its appearance, toning down the aggressive lower fascia with its prominent chin spoiler and air intakes. At the rear, a sloping roofline, sculpted shoulders, and connected taillights tied together by a slim reflector bar deliver a cohesive, modern look with plenty of character.
Inside, Nissan blends affordability with upscale details. Soft-touch materials and contrasting stitching in bold colors give the cabin a refined edge, especially in the SR trim. While the two-tone exterior paint option enhances curb appeal, interior colors remain limited to black. Despite its price point, the Kicks stands out with thoughtful design elements and features, making it a compelling option in the entry-level crossover space.
PERFORMANCE
Power isn’t the strong suit of the 2025 Nissan Kicks, often feeling out of its depth in faster traffic. While engine noise and a lack of refinement emerge under stress, the ride comfort remains commendable for a budget-conscious crossover. A new 2.0-liter inline-4, replacing the prior 1.6-liter engine, delivers 141 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque, with all-wheel drive now available for $1,500.
Front-wheel drive is standard, but AWD trims introduce Snow mode alongside Normal, Eco, and Sport settings. Although the upgraded engine provides more power, the added weight—up to 300 pounds—reduces efficiency to 31 mpg combined, or 30 mpg with AWD. Acceleration is a slight improvement over last year’s model, but the heavier build tempers the added power, keeping performance modest.
Without a hybrid option, eco-minded drivers may look elsewhere. Despite the AWD’s multilink suspension, handling differences from the base model’s twist-beam setup are marginal. The added weight of AWD—around 200 pounds—dampens agility and doesn’t significantly enhance cornering. Overall, the driving experience remains predictable but doesn’t match the engagement offered by some rivals.
Hitting highway speeds exposes the Kicks’ limits, with strained acceleration and coarse engine noise, especially on hills. It’s not dangerously underpowered, but it falls short of quick, which is typical for crossovers in this price range. An 8.4-inch ground clearance boosts usability in snow and ease of entry, though the Kicks isn’t built for off-roading.
VERDICT
Priced at $27,860, the 2025 Nissan Kicks SR AWD serves as a well-equipped small SUV. Adding the SR AWD premium package for $1,950 brings extra convenience and tech features. Optional upgrades like $250 splash guards, $190 carpeted floor mats, and a $250 two-tone paint finish push the total price to $31,710.
Competition
Chevy refreshed the Trax last year, giving the 2025 model an eye-catching design and an affordable price, though it lacks an all-wheel-drive option. Hyundai’s 2025 Kona competes with striking looks and a tech-forward interior featuring dual 12.3-inch screens, offering buyers a modern aesthetic. Kia’s 2025 Seltos steps in with a more polished design, though its higher base price might sway budget-conscious shoppers elsewhere.
Kia’s 2025 Soul remains a fun and unconventional choice but also doesn’t offer AWD. Toyota’s Corolla Cross stands apart as the segment’s lone hybrid, appealing to efficiency-focused drivers despite its narrower build and somewhat dated styling. Each model caters to different priorities, whether it’s cost, technology, hybrid efficiency, or premium touches, giving buyers a range of compelling options to explore.
