Size is relative.
The 2025 Nissan Kicks has arrived to remind us that size doesn’t always matter, at least when it comes to compact SUVs. This little powerhouse comes with plenty of personality, fuel efficiency, and tech-savvy features, proving that the best things really do come in small packages.
Don’t be fooled by its compact stature–the 2025 Kicks packs a punch when it comes to the driving experience. Under the hood, as they say, the Kicks offers a single engine option – the trusty 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers a respectable 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque.
While it’s not exactly a speed demon, the Kicks is quick enough to zip back and forth along the 210 with ease, all while maintaining a smooth and responsive ride.
Because of course, you’re just sitting in traffic. (See what I did there?)
With front-wheel drive standard, the Kicks isn’t just about city moving. It handles curvy roads and tight parking spots with ease, thanks to its nimble steering and lightweight build. There’s a pretty impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy of 31 mpg city/36 mpg highway, and you’ve got yourself a compact crossover that will break the bank less than others at the pump. The fuel tank holds a generous 10.8 gallons, so you can enjoy the scenery and not the gas station.
The 2025 Nissan Kicks is offered in three distinct trims: S, SV, and SR. Each trim offers its own unique features and perks, because you gotta be you.
Kicks S: The base model is anything but. Starting with the essentials, it comes with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera – all of which ensure that your safety is top priority. Inside, you’ll find a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration, making it easy to stay connected and entertained on the go.
- Kicks SV: The SV trim ups the ante with additional comforts like keyless entry, a 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, and a larger 8-inch touchscreen. It also includes a power-adjustable driver’s seat, making it easier to find your perfect driving position. Plus, you get a more advanced suite of driver-assist features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, ensuring your journey is as safe as it is smooth.
- Kicks SR: The SR trim is where the Kicks really starts to show off its personality. This is what we drove, on account of we have that personality thing going on. It comes with sportier touches like 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and a sleek black-painted roof. But it’s not just about looks – the SR also adds a push-button start and a 360-degree camera system to help you navigate tight spots with confidence. Inside, you get premium features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated front seats, perfect for chilly mornings.
Despite its compact size, the 2025 Nissan Kicks feels surprisingly spacious inside. With a generous 93.5 cubic feet of passenger space, the cabin comfortably accommodates up to five adults, with ample headroom and legroom in both the front and back seats. At six foot two, legroom is a bit of an obession for me.
Thus the Kicks is a smart option for small families, commuters, or anyone who needs an efficient ride without sacrificing comfort.
The Kicks also shines when it comes to cargo space, offering up to 32.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This is a major plus for those who find themselves regularly hauling groceries, camping gear, or the occasional piece of furniture. Even with the rear seats up, there’s still 25.3 cubic feet of space, which is more than enough to carry a weekend’s worth of luggage.
The 2025 Kicks is all about keeping you connected, entertained, and safe while on the road. All trims come standard with a 7-inch touchscreen, but the SV and SR trims offer an upgraded 8-inch display, making it even easier to navigate through your favorite apps and music. The Kicks is fully compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so whether you’re an iPhone or Android user, you’ll have easy access to your contacts, maps, and music with just a few taps on the screen.
The SR trim offers an upgraded six-speaker sound system that ensures your favorite tunes are bumping clearly, whether you’re driving through the city or cruising down the highway. It’s also equipped with NissanConnect services, which allows you to remotely start your vehicle, lock and unlock the doors, and check your car’s status from your smartphone.
Safety is always a top priority with Nissan. Along with the standard suite of safety features – including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning – higher trims add even more tech, like rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, and the 360-degree camera system, ensuring you can navigate tight spaces and busy streets with confidence.
The 2025 Nissan Kicks is smallish, but it’s not that smallish, but it’s big on style, comfort, and tech. (Only in America would the Kicks be considered small. Just saying.)
Whether you’re looking for a city commuter, or a road trip buddy who doesn’t hog the Slim Jims and doesn’t sing along to the tunes, the Kicks brings it. With pretty good fuel economy, a surprisingly spacious interior, and the latest tech, the Kicks is a solid choice for lots of reasons.
