MSRP: $21,830
Use the table of contents to jump to a section
Overview
The 2025 Nissan Kicks is a five-passenger subcompact SUV designed for buyers who want practicality without stretching the budget. It runs a single powertrain: a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 141 hp, paired with a continuously variable transmission. Front-wheel drive comes standard, and Intelligent All-Wheel Drive is optional.
Three trims include S, SV, and SR, each offered with front-wheel drive. The Kicks fits first-time buyers, value-focused shoppers, and city drivers who prioritize efficiency and modern features in a compact footprint.
Nissan
What’s New for 2025?
The 2025 model year marks a full redesign as the Kicks enters its second generation. Styling takes cues from larger Nissan crossovers, and overall length increases to create more cabin space. Intelligent All-Wheel Drive joins the lineup for the first time.
The SR trim now offers ProPilot Assist and dual 12.3-inch displays. Output rises from 122 hp to 141 hp. Ground clearance and cargo space grow to best-in-class levels. Nissan Safety Shield 360 comes standard across all trims.
Nissan also continues the prior-generation S model under a new name, the Kicks Play, for 2025.
Exterior
The redesigned Nissan Kicks features a more assertive look while maintaining compact proportions. At 171.9 inches long, it presents a modern subcompact stance. The front fascia carries LED headlights and Nissan’s V-motion grille, giving it a recognizable brand identity.
Character lines run along the sides, and the upright form factor boosts interior space. An integrated rear spoiler finishes the design cleanly.
The S trim rides on 16-inch steel wheels with covers, the SV has the same in 17 inches, and SR upgrades to 17-inch alloys. The SR Premium package offers 19-inch wheels. Buyers can choose two-tone roof treatments for added contrast. Exterior colors include Scarlet Ember Tintcoat, Deep Blue Pearl, and Fresh Powder.
Nissan
Nissan
Nissan
Interior
The cabin focuses on technology and usability. The S features a 7-inch touchscreen, while the SV and SR receive a 12.3-inch display. On the SR, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster pairs with the center screen in a dual-display layout.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on SV and SR. A four-speaker audio system equips the S and SV, and the SR has a six-speaker setup, upgradable to a 10-speaker Bose Personal Plus Audio System with UltraNearfield headrest speakers.
Cloth upholstery comes standard, but the SR has leatherette. Features such as heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, automatic climate control, and wireless charging are optional or standard on higher trims. Material quality feels competitive for the price point.
Cargo space ranks at the top of the segment. The Nissan Kicks subcompact SUV provides 23.9 to 30 cu-ft behind the second row and 50.1 to 60 cu-ft with the seats folded. All-wheel-drive models trade a small amount of cargo volume.
Nissan
Nissan
Nissan
Price Range and Best Value Trim
| Trim Level | FWD | |
| Base Trim: S FWD | $21,830 | |
| Top Trim: SR AWD | $27,680 | |
| Best value: SV FWD | $23,680 |
Within the 2025 Nissan Kicks’ price structure, the SV FWD stands out. It adds a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 17-inch wheels, an adjustable rear cargo floor, and a wireless charging pad. All-wheel drive adds $1,650.
Key Specs
| Configuration | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission | Drive |
| All Trims | 2.0L I4 | 141 hp | 140 lb-ft | CVT | FWD / RWD |
Powertrain Performance
| Metric | Value |
| 0-60 mph | 9.0-10.3 seconds |
| Ground Clearance | 8.4 inches (best in class) |
Fuel Economy (EPA)
| Configuration | City | Highway | Combined |
| 2.0L FWD | 28 mpg | 35 mpg | 31 mpg |
| 2.0L AWD | 27 mpg | 34 mpg | 30 mpg |
Warranty
| Coverage Type | Duration |
| Basic Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | 2 years / 24,000 miles (3 oil changes) |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Attractive $21,830 starting price
- Best-in-class 60 cu-ft cargo
- Best-in-class 7.4-inch ground clearance
- 33 mpg combined
Cons:
- Modest 141 hp limits acceleration
- Base S lacks wireless smartphone connectivity
- CVT feels less engaging
- Top SR nears $30,000 with AWD
Verdict
The 2025 Kicks delivers subcompact SUV practicality with strong value. The 2.0-liter engine produces 141 hp and reaches 60 mph in about 10 seconds, so it’s very slow. EPA ratings reach 28 city and 35 highway mpg with FWD. AWD lowers ratings to 27 city and 34 highway mpg.
Ground clearance measures 8.4 inches, leading the class. The S at $21,830 provides core features such as a 7-inch touchscreen and Nissan Safety Shield 360, but omits wireless connectivity. The SV at $23,680 offers the strongest mix of technology and price. The SR at $26,180 adds leatherette seating, automatic climate control, and ProPilot Assist capability, and more.
Interior quality impresses for the segment, and the dual 12.3-inch displays integrate cleanly. Cargo capacity reaches 60 cu-ft, placing it at the top of the class. Steering remains light, and the CVT operates smoothly. Compared with the Honda HR-V and Hyundai Kona, the Kicks holds its own on cargo space and pricing.
For buyers who want efficient transportation with modern features at a reasonable cost, the 2025 model makes a compelling case.
Nissan
Competitors
- Honda HR-V
- Hyundai Kona
- Toyota Corolla Cross
About the author
Cobus F. Potgieter
Reviews and Features Editor