2018 Nissan Kicks

Pros: Automatic emergency braking is standard; projected fuel economy; good cargo room for the size; smooth, quiet ride

Cons: AWD is not available; some so-so interior materials; folded rear seat backs don’t rest flat with the cargo floor

CG Says: The 2018 Nissan Kicks is a new subcompact crossover SUV that slots below the Nissan Rogue Sport in size and price. The Kicks essentially replaces the discontinued Nissan Juke. It is three inches shorter than Rogue Sport and, unlike most other SUVs, is front-wheel drive only; AWD is not available. The sole powertrain is a 125-horsepower 1.6-liter 4-cylinder with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). A forward-collision warning system with automatic emergency braking is standard. Available features include blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, 360-degree Intelligent Around-View Monitor with moving-object detection, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and LED headlights. The lack of available all-wheel drive is a demerit for buyers in Northern climes, but the Nissan Kicks’s affordable pricing, respectable passenger and cargo room for its size, pleasant driving manners, and surprisingly low noise levels make it a fine value in its class.