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 2019 Nissan Kicks is unchanged. Introduced last year, Kicks is a 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 122-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.
Class | Subcompact SUV |
Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
Passenger Count | 5 |
Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive |
Manufacturer | Nissan |
Nation of Manufacture | USA |
Base Prices | S: $19,535 SV: $21,245 SR: $21,865 |
Base Engine 1.6-liter 4-cylinder |
Horsepower 122 |
Std. Transmission CVT |
Avail. Transmission NA |
EPA City Range (mpg) 31 |
EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 36 |