2025 Nissan Kicks

Nissan has renewed the Kicks SUV, bringing it closer into line with the rest of the class. It remains one of the more affordable subcompact SUVs, even with the new option of all-wheel drive (AWD). As is often the case in this segment, the previous model wasn’t easy to get excited about. However, the reimagined Kicks should generate some enthusiasm. Nissan delivers an array of advanced tech in even the entry-level model. There is adequate passenger space to transport a small family. Moreover, stepping up the trim ladder adds content worthy of the higher price, like a huge dual digital display. All in all, the whole thing feels like Nissan has spent time and money getting the recipe right.

We’ve spent hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this collection of subcompact SUVs, including the Nissan Kicks.

The second generation of Kicks has arrived. It’s bigger than before, with more space and power, and a whole new style. Notable upgrades are the optional all-wheel drive, ProPilot semi-autonomous driver-assistance aid (standard on the SR grade), and the 12.3-inch digital infotainment touchscreen on the two upper trims. In addition, the new Kicks is bigger overall than its predecessor.

The mid-level SV has been the most popular choice in the past and one that we’d be far more inclined to recommend than the base model.

Most rivals — like the Honda HR-V, Kia Seltos, Hyundai Kona, Subaru Crosstrek and Mazda CX-30 — have starting prices higher than the Kicks. The Crosstrek and CX-30 come with all-wheel drive as standard.

Before buying a new Kicks subcompact SUV, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should be paying. Resale values of the previous generation were just a fraction below average. Remember, recouping more money when you sell a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on your next one.

The 2025 Kicks has the potential to provide more kicks for the driver. Its 2.0-liter engine produces 141 horsepower, a 19-hp bump over the previous model. We do feel obligated, however, to temper that enthusiasm with the fact that the new Kicks is somewhat heavier, by about 360 pounds. The bottom line: Its horsepower count is about average for the class. For example, the base Kia Seltos has 146 horsepower.

Although the advance in horsepower is rather timid, we felt the resulting boost in acceleration is noticeable. We did sense some road noise from the tires; however, the suspension did an admirable job of soaking up most pavement imperfections. We didn’t climb any mountains while testing the Kicks but it tackled reasonable grades without struggling. Generally, the Kicks performs well within the parameters established by its rivals.

Kudos to Nissan for finally adding the all-wheel-drive option. That you can add all-wheel drive to even the range-topping SR trim, including the factory-to-dealer delivery fee, and still sneak under the $30,000 mark should have real appeal to shoppers in the subcompact SUV segment.

To match the adventurous exterior, Nissan has graced the new Kicks with a classy interior. In the top SR trim, at least, which comes with a dual-display unit that incorporates a digital instrument cluster and an infotainment touchscreen — both measuring 12.3 inches.

After that treat for the eyes comes a treat for a lower region. Nissan’s Zero Gravity seats — renowned for their comfort — are standard in both rows. The bigger body of the new 2025 Kicks results in more space for its occupants. There are increases (albeit by an inch or so) in shoulder room and rear legroom. That said, the Kia Seltos and Honda HR-V are still a bit more accommodating for those with longer legs.

Cargo space varies according to trim and whether or not the specific vehicle has all-wheel drive. The largest luggage area behind the rear seats is 30 cubic feet, expanding to 60 cubic feet with those seats folded. These figures are better-than-average for the class. To compare, the previous Kicks had 25.3/53.1 cubic feet. Nissan also claims a widest-in-class cargo area opening, at 40.3 inches, which will make loading something like a stroller an easier task.

We’ve already forgotten what the previous Kicks looks like. Which says a lot about how stunning this generation’s design is, and how not-at-all-stunning the outgoing model was. If this is Nissan’s new design philosophy, we’re excited to see what future models will look like.

Size-wise, the new Kicks grows by about an inch in each direction. It’s similar to the Kia Seltos, and both of these vehicles are smaller than the Honda HR-V. The Kicks is now more like an SUV than a hatchback as well, with ground clearance of 8.4 inches (a hike of 1.4 inches).

Available all-wheel drive
The second-generation Kicks marks the first time all-wheel drive has been on its options list. It is a must-have feature in the snow belt to deliver traction in snow and on ice.

Available 12.3-inch touchscreen
Although the base S trim comes with a 7-inch touchscreen, the upper two trims get a massive 12.3-inch digital infotainment touchscreen display. It makes finding and controlling systems much easier.

Nissan Safety Shield 360
Standard on every 2025 Kicks, this bundle of advanced safety and driver-assist tech includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear automatic braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and high-beam assist. Also standard is rear park assist.

Adaptive cruise control
Standard on every Kicks trim, the advanced cruise control system slows and accelerates to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front once the speed has been set.

Available ProPilot Assist
Standard on the range-topping SR grade, this semi-autonomous driver-assistance system allows the Kicks to brake, accelerate, and steer itself under certain conditions. It takes advantage of other SR-standard advanced systems like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot intervention, and Intersection Assist, which kicks in when making a left turn across oncoming traffic.

Intelligent Key
A programmable key fob, this feature is a more complex take on keyless entry systems that automatically unlock the vehicle without engaging the fob. In other words, you can unlock the Kicks by simply operating the door or liftgate handle as long as the key fob is on your person. Standard on every Kicks trim, it also includes push-button start.

A bigger 4-cylinder engine makes it into the new Kicks. It’s now a 2.0-liter (up from 1.6) and makes 141 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque (up from 122/114). This goes to a standard front-wheel-drive configuration, although the Kicks now offers the option of all-wheel drive (featuring a Snow mode) with all three trims.

3-Year/36,000-Mile Warranty

Nissan’s new-vehicle warranty lasts three years or 36,000 miles, whichever happens first. Powertrains are covered for five years or 60,000 miles, including roadside assistance. These terms are typical for the class. There’s no free scheduled maintenance.

Safety

Currently, no third party has crash or safety tested the redesigned Kicks. However, standard safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection. We’re also happy that blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is part of this array as well. The top SR trim gains ProPilot adaptive cruise control/lane-keeping/steering assistance — the first time this feature has appeared in a Kicks.