2023 Nissan Kicks Review, Pricing, and Specs

The Kicks is well-equipped even at the base S trim level, which includes a host of standard driver-assistance features. We’d spring for the mid-range SV; it adds desirable items such as the new 8.0-inch infotainment display, adaptive cruise control, 17-inch wheels, and a center-console armrest.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Every 2023 Kicks model is powered by a 122-hp four-cylinder engine that provides barely adequate acceleration. A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) handles shifting duties and drives the front wheels; all-wheel drive is not offered. If the leisurely 9.7-second jog to 60 mph makes the Kicks sound slow, that’s because it is. However, the test results we recorded are only half the story. Around town, it feels surprisingly perky, so long as you’re willing to push deep into the throttle and let the engine rev. The Kicks is nimble and more fun to throw around than some larger SUVs, but it’s no thrill ride on a twisty road. The suspension is tuned for comfort, and it provided a well-cushioned ride even over the pitted and crumbling roads around our offices in southeast Michigan. The steering is direct and accurate, but there’s very little feedback that comes up from the road to the driver’s hands.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The Kicks has earned excellent EPA fuel-economy ratings of 31 mpg city and 36 mpg highway; in our 75-mph real-world highway fuel-economy test, it sipped fuel more like an economy car than an SUV. Its 37-mpg result tied with the Toyota C-HR. Despite its stellar result in our test, the tiny 10.8-gallon fuel tank abbreviates its cruising range. For more information about the Kicks’ fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Interior styling is less trendy than the exterior design, but it the Kicks is well-built, looks grown-up, and has a user-friendly interior. An adult-sized rear seat means it can haul people and cargo without the cramped feeling one might experience in rivals such as the C-HR. Splashes of color throughout the cabin do a nice job of breaking up the monotony of what would otherwise be an all-black interior. Despite its small size, the Kicks impressed us with its results in our cargo tests, matching and beating some larger rivals. We managed to fit 19 of our carry-on suitcases with the rear seats folded. Small-item storage is at a premium in the cargo area and the back seat, but front-seat occupants won’t notice the pinch thanks to large door pockets and a large glovebox.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Nissan’s infotainment system is not among the most beautiful interfaces on the market today, but it’s intuitive and easy to learn. We wish some of the on-screen icons were larger and easier to actuate while driving but, overall, the system is intuitive. The base Kicks S comes with a 7.0-inch touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, and Bluetooth connectivity while the mid-range SV and the top-spec SR get an 8.0-inch display, an extra USB-C port, and access to Nissan’s NissanConnect telematics and concierge system. Buyers of the SR can order the optional Premium package, which adds a Bose stereo system and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Nissan provides a host of standard driver-assistance technology, and automated emergency braking is standard across the range. For more information about the Kicks’ crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Standard lane-departure warning
• Available adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Nissan offers a wholly average warranty package. Drivers who need higher-mileage protection should consider the Kia Soul and its industry-best powertrain warranty, and those who prefer complimentary scheduled maintenance coverage might be interested in the C-HR.

• Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance

More Features and Specs