2025 Nissan Kicks review

Nissan made a point to give this second-generation Kicks a much more memorable exterior design than the fade-into-the-background first model. There’s no doubt the new Kicks has a bold design that will appeal to SUV shoppers looking for a stylish and wallet-friendly vehicle. The same is true inside. The cabin is outfitted with higher-quality materials, and the midlevel to range-topping trims come standard with wireless smartphone connectivity, sizable infotainment touchscreens, and a number of advanced driver aids. 

Even the base trim comes standard with forward and reverse automatic emergency braking, parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver attention monitor. One thing missing from the Kicks, however, is an abundance of horsepower. The four-cylinder engine offers tepid acceleration and quickly runs out of steam at highway speed. On a plus note, for the first time the Kicks is available with all-wheel drive. The previous iteration was strictly a front-wheel-drive subcompact SUV.

The original version of the Kicks arrived for the 2018 model year boasting a large cargo area, easygoing driving dynamics, and a very low base price. Unfortunately, the four-cylinder engine and interior quality left much to be desired. While it was commendable for being easy on the budget, the first-generation Kicks lacked much of the poise and polish found in rivals like the Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, and Subaru Crosstrek. Not having all-wheel drive, even as an option, was another serious drawback for SUV shoppers living in areas where roads can quickly turn slick with heavy rain, snow, or ice. This at least meant fuel economy was a tick or two above many competing models because being strictly front-wheel drive benefited the Kicks' overall fuel efficiency.