Nissan Kicks Review 2025: The all-new second-generation Nissan Kicks is here, and it’s ready to stand out in the competitive crossover market. Gone are the days of being overshadowed by quirky cousins like the Juke, as Nissan has given the Kicks a complete makeover with bold styling, accessible tech, and an affordable price tag. Targeted at urban drivers and young families looking for a dependable yet fun first car, the Kicks steps up as a stylized, affordable crossover that blends utility with personality.
Born initially as a solution for the South American and North American markets, the Kicks has gradually made its way into Europe, positioning itself as a practical and youthful alternative to the more generic small SUVs. Its refreshed design, combined with improved powertrain options and a new interior layout, makes it one of the most talked-about entries in the budget-friendly SUV segment of 2025.
Unlike the Nissan Juke of the early 2010s, which polarized opinions with its oddball looks and quirky proportions, the Kicks brings a modern, cohesive aesthetic. The compact SUV doesn’t just serve as a city commuter; it’s also a family-friendly, tech-forward machine designed to stand on its own merits.
Nissan Kicks Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-litre inline-4 |
| Power Output | 141 hp |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (standard), All-Wheel Drive (optional) |
| Cargo Space | 850 litres (max, seats folded) |
| Safety Features | Emergency Braking, Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning |
| Infotainment Display | Up to Dual 12.3-inch screens |
| Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | Standard on higher trims |
| ProPilot Assist | Available in higher trims |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | ~4,300 mm x 1,760 mm x 1,600 mm |
| Trim Levels | Base, SR, and Top variants |
| Launch Date | Available globally from 2025 |
| Price (Est.) | From around £20,000 ($24,000) |
Exterior Design
The Nissan Kicks’ exterior styling is a bold step forward. Gone are the lackluster looks of the first generation. The second-gen Kicks adopts masculine, clean lines paired with a two-tone roof option and a more aggressive front fascia, somewhat reminiscent of the latest Nissan Z coupe.
While the Juke was famous for its quirky looks, the Kicks now projects confidence and modernity with a squared-off profile, angular headlamps, and a large grille that feels more purposeful. The available two-tone paint schemes allow for further personal expression, setting it apart from the bland competition.
Interior and Features
Step inside, and the Kicks doesn’t disappoint. The interior is simple yet functional, aiming to blend affordability with contemporary tech. The standout is the option for dual 12.3-inch digital screens—one for the driver and one for the passenger—offering a highly customizable user interface similar to rivals such as Audi and Mercedes.
Expect Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility as standard in mid and high trims, while entry-level models feature a more basic infotainment system appropriate for rental or fleet usage.
Materials are solid for the price, with some soft-touch surfaces and decent build quality, though a handful of plastics, like the foldable cupholders, feel cheap in comparison. Nappa leather upholstery is available in the SR trim, complete with contrasting red stitching.
Passengers enjoy ample headroom and legroom, with up to 850 litres of boot space, expanding to 1,576 litres with folded seats. Additionally, the front boot (frunk) offers a practical 71 litres of extra space.
Performance and Driveability
Power comes from a 2.0-litre inline-four engine generating 141 horsepower, paired to a CVT transmission. While it isn’t a speed demon, the Kicks is peppy enough for urban commuting and light highway duties.
Nissan has added an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) option, perfect for buyers who need extra traction during winter or bad weather conditions. A Snow drive mode further enhances confidence when driving on slippery surfaces.
The steering is light, and the overall handling is predictable, favoring comfort over sporty thrills. It won’t impress power enthusiasts, but the Kicks performs as expected for a subcompact SUV in its price range.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Nissan has packed the Kicks with standard safety technologies, ensuring peace of mind for urban and family drivers:
- Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Warning
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Higher trims add ProPilot Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system that helps keep the car centered in lanes, manage adaptive cruise control, and monitor driver attentiveness during long drives.
Also read: Xpeng G9 Review 2025: The Chinese Flagship SUV with Supercar-Like Charging Speeds
Price, Competitors, and Value
The Kicks aims to hit the sweet spot in affordability. Pricing is expected to start at around £20,000 ($24,000), making it highly competitive in its segment.
Its main rivals include:
- Kia Soul: More style, but less tech in base trims
- Hyundai Kona: Offers more powertrain options but at a higher cost
- Renault Captur: Similar size and price but lacks the same tech emphasis
The two-tone color options, available AWD, and high-tech cabin setup make the Kicks a very compelling proposition for young families and city dwellers.
Conclusion
The Nissan Kicks 2025 successfully steps out of the Juke’s shadow, establishing itself as a fresh, practical, and tech-forward crossover. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it delivers exactly what most small SUV buyers are after—affordability, solid build quality, useful tech, and a bit of personal style.
Its biggest strengths lie in the dual-screen infotainment system, AWD option, and competitive pricing, making it perfect for urban commuters and small families who want versatility without breaking the bank.
While performance is modest, and the design isn’t revolutionary, the Kicks has found its niche. It balances style, space, and practicality in a way that appeals to younger drivers who still want a bit of personality in their ride.
Compared to rivals like the Kia Soul and Hyundai Kona, the Kicks stands tall for offering a better tech package and slightly sharper styling, though at the expense of optional powertrains.
For those seeking an affordable, well-rounded urban SUV with a touch of flair and useful tech, the Nissan Kicks is a solid choice in 2025.
FAQs Of Nissan Kicks
1. What engine powers the Nissan Kicks 2025?
The Nissan Kicks comes with a 2.0-litre inline-four petrol engine producing 141 hp, paired with a CVT transmission. An All-Wheel Drive (AWD) option is available for added traction in poor weather.
2. How much does the Nissan Kicks cost?
The Nissan Kicks is expected to start at around £20,000 ($24,000) in the UK and US markets, offering strong value compared to rivals like the Kia Soul and Hyundai Kona.
3. What is the cargo capacity of the Nissan Kicks?
The Kicks offers a 660-litre boot, expandable up to 1,576 litres when folding the rear seats. The front boot provides 71 litres of additional storage space.
4. Does the Nissan Kicks have advanced driver assistance features?
Yes, the Kicks comes standard with Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, and Pedestrian Detection. Higher trims add ProPilot Assist, which includes adaptive cruise control and lane-centering capabilities.
5. Is AWD available on the Nissan Kicks?
Yes, for the first time, the Nissan Kicks offers an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) option, providing extra confidence and stability during inclement weather. There is also a Snow drive mode for slippery conditions.