One of the hottest trends today is the emergence of subcompact SUVs as the entry-level vehicle of choice for new car buyers. These affordable and efficient models offer good fuel economy, a flexible hatchback body, and fun SUV-inspired styling. The 2021 Nissan Kicks incorporates all these elements and more in a package that’s easy on the eyes and wallet.
Even though the Nissan Kicks is a relative newcomer, it also benefits from a redesign for the 2021 model year, giving it a more aggressive look and stance. While it does have an off-roader’s aura, Kicks is more of an urban crossover and comes only in front-wheel drive. Still, it has a high, command-of-the-road seating position that owners have come to appreciate from their SUVs.
The engine lineup is simple. There’s a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 112 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While those numbers don’t look robust, the relatively low weight of the Kicks helps the performance. Its strong suit, though, is fuel economy. The Nissan Kicks delivers 31 mpg city and 36 mpg highway, according to the EPA.
Sophisticated Safety
For its price, the Kicks is quite sophisticated. It comes with Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 system that boasts automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, automatic rear braking, radar-based blind-spot monitor, lane-departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high beams.
All Kicks models feature Nissan’s highly regarded “zero gravity” seats for comfort, a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, and 16-inch wheels. The Nissan Kicks also provides good cargo space with up to 25.3 cubic feet behind the second row, which expands to 53 cubic feet when the seat is down.
There are three trim levels offered: S, SV, and SR. The base model, which starts at $19,500 (plus $1,150 destination), comes with all the features mentioned above. Step up to the SV, and you get a larger 8-inch touchscreen, 17-inch wheels, automatic climate control, intelligent cruise control, and an electronic parking brake with a hill-hold function.
Our choice, however, would be the range-topping SR. For less than $22,000, you get black roof rails, an around-view monitor, LED headlamps, taillamps, and fog lamps. Add either $250 or $595 depending on color and you get a contrasting black roof.
We also like the $1,200 Premium Package, which includes a faux leather interior with contrast stitching, heated seats, heated steering wheel, vehicle security system, and an 8-speaker Bose Personal Plus audio system that includes a pair of speakers in the driver’s headrest.
Here’s the Complete Rundown on 2021 Nissan Kicks Trims and Prices:
2021 Nissan Kicks S: $19,500
- Safety Shield 360
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 7-inch touchscreen Display
- Three USB Ports
2021 Nissan Kicks SV: $21,300
- 8-inch touchscreen display
- Intelligent Cruise Control
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Center console with armrest
2021 Nissan Kicks SR: $21,940
- LED headlights and fog lights
- Intelligent Around View 360-degree monitor
- Available Bose audio system
- Black roof rails
- Rear roof spoiler
Ready to buy a 2021 Nissan Kicks? Shop for one on sale now near you.
