Bigger Is Better in Nissan’s 2025 Kicks

FARMINGTON HILLS, MI – Nissan’s redesigned 2025 Kicks small CUV grows in every way – longer, wider, taller and with more ground clearance – and with a larger 4-cyl. under the hood and available all-wheel drive.

The new engine, shared with several other Nissan models, is a 141-hp, 140-lb.-ft. (190-Nm) 2.0L that provides a significant bump in output compared with the 122-hp, 114-lb.-ft. (155-Nm) 1.6L I-4 it replaces.

The 2025 Kicks introduces the automaker’s CMF-B (Common Module Family, B-Segment) platform to North America. CMF-B also underpins the Renault Clio and Nissan Juke, among other models.

The new Kicks’ growth shows up in an extra 3.0 cu.-ft. (85 L) in passenger space, mostly in the second row, and in an increase in cargo capacity to 30 cu.-ft. (850 L) with rear seats raised, 60 cu.-ft. (1,699 L) with the seats folded. Thanks to a 1.4-in. (36-mm) increase in ground clearance to 8.4 ins. (213 mm), step-in height increases 3.5 ins. (89 mm) to 19 ins. (483 mm), dramatically easing ingress/egress.

While the increased overall size and larger engine are welcome, the growth spurt along with added cabin insulation bring an unwelcome boost in curb weight, up an average of 343 lbs. (156 kg), with AWD adding another 190 lbs. (86 kg) on average, depending on trim level.

The net effect is a much more pleasing runabout compared with the previous-generation Kicks, but one that still demands compromises.

In a short test drive here on two-lane suburban streets and a stretch of interstate, we appreciate the added power, whether from launch or at speed. But even with added cabin insulation, we can’t help but notice road noise and engine noise, the latter especially under hard acceleration and when the engine approaches its 5,800-rpm faux “shift” point.

The upgraded Xtronic continuously variable transmission is improved, but still allows too much revving and rubber-band feel for our preference. On the plus side, even with the larger engine and power boost, combined fuel economy only drops by 2 mpg (.87 km/L) to 31 mpg (7.6 L/100 km) for the front-drive model.

The addition of AWD should be a bonus for sales in snowier states and features a new hydraulic control system that is quicker to respond to a demand for rear-axle torque. Intelligent All-Wheel Drive detects yaw and steering angle to use braking to distribute torque across the axles to assist in cornering. We note the Kicks handles well, but we did not get a chance to sample the AWD system in more demanding off-road or slick conditions. AWD is available on all trim levels.

For most buyers, the powertrain may not be the Kicks’ top selling point, but the vehicle’s all-new interior and dual 12.3-in. (31-cm) instrument cluster and infotainment screens on the top trim SR model will have them signing on the dotted line.

Top trim SR model features wide info screens.

Our range-topping SR AWD tester started at $27,680, with a Premium package adding $1,950 and a some splash guards and alloy wheels pushing the total to $31,875. The S front-drive base model starts at $23,220 including destination, while the most popular SV trim runs $25,070 for a FWD model and $26,720 for AWD. A new SV Premium package, with a panoramic roof and heated front seats and exterior mirrors, tacks on $1,500. All total prices include a $1,390 destination charge.

Nissan’s Safety Shield 360, standard across all trim levels, includes a variety of warnings (lane departure, blindspot, rear cross-traffic) along with automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and rear automatic braking. Adaptive cruise control and automatic high-beam control are welcome standard features on all trim levels as well.

Comfort is a highlight, not only because of the more spacious and higher-riding cabin, but thanks to standard Zero Gravity Seats in front and rear (outboard) seats. We found the seat support and comfort superb during our commute-like drive.

The Kicks’ 67,000 sales in 2023 put it in 10^th place as it competes in the 1.4-million Wards Intelligence Small CUV segment against the Chevrolet Trax/Trailblazer, Ford Bronco Sport, Hyundai Kona, Honda HR-V, Jeep Compass, Kia Soul, Mazda CX-30, Subaru Crosstrek and Toyota Corolla Cross. The Kicks’ timely growth spurt and major updates make it a strong contender with plenty of standard equipment for the money – even on the base model – to attract buyers and expand its share of the segment.