Main Highlights
Fully redesigned for 2025 with bolder styling and more cabin space
The standard 2.0L engine upgrade improves performance over the previous 1.6L
AWD is available for the first time in Kicks history
Larger 12.3″ touchscreen and digital driver display standard on upper trims
Excellent fuel economy: 32 MPG combined
Starts at an attractive price point near $22,000
Nissan Safety Shield® 360 included on all trims
Ideal for first-time buyers, city dwellers, or small families
More comfortable ride with refined suspension tuning
Introduction: Why the 2025 Nissan Kicks Could Be Your Best Budget SUV in 2025
With inflation pushing car prices to all-time highs, buyers are craving practical, tech-savvy, and affordable vehicles. The subcompact SUV segment has grown rapidly because it offers exactly that—and Nissan’s Kicks has been a major player.
But for 2025, the Nissan Kicks is no longer content with just being “good enough.” It brings sharper styling, better tech, AWD (finally), and stronger performance—making it a compelling alternative to more expensive rivals like the Hyundai Kona, Toyota Corolla Cross, or even Honda HR-V.
This review dives deep into what the 2025 Nissan Kicks offers—engine, mileage, features, design, pros and cons, and even financing options that could fit your budget.
In-Depth Review of the 2025 Nissan Kicks
Engine, Performance & Transmission
Upgraded 2.0L Engine
Gone is the underpowered 1.6L engine from previous models. The 2025 Nissan Kicks now comes with a 2.0L inline-4 engine that delivers:
Horsepower: 141 hp
Torque: 140 lb-ft
Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
0-60 mph: Around 8.5 seconds (estimated)
AWD Availability
For the first time, Nissan has introduced an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) option—huge news for buyers in snow-prone states like Colorado, Michigan, or New York.
City-Friendly Ride
Despite the added power, the Kicks remains nimble and light, with great maneuverability in tight spaces and a smooth ride for daily urban use.
Fuel Economy
Efficiency is still the name of the game:
| Drivetrain | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| FWD | 31 | 36 | 33 |
| AWD | 29 | 34 | 32 |
With gas prices hovering between $3.50 and $4.00/gallon, the Kicks is economical for commuting and weekend road trips.
Dimensions & Space
Length: 172.5 inches
Wheelbase: 104 inches
Ground Clearance: 8.2 inches
Cargo Space: 30 cu. ft. (with seats up), 55.1 cu.ft (with seats down)
Passenger Volume: 95 cu. ft.
Features & Tech
Infotainment
8” touchscreen standard (12.3” available on higher trims)
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Available Bose® UltraNearfield speakers in headrest
7” digital driver cluster (12.3” available on SR)
Connectivity
USB-C and USB-A ports
Wi-Fi hotspot
Over-the-air software updates
NissanConnect® Services
Comfort & Interior
Heated front seats
Dual-zone climate control
Flat-bottom steering wheel
Leatherette upholstery available
Ambient interior lighting
Safety Features: Nissan Safety Shield® 360
Every 2025 Kicks comes standard with:
Automatic Emergency Braking w/ Pedestrian Detection
Blind Spot Warning
Lane Departure Warning
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
High Beam Assist
Rear Automatic Braking
Top trims also offer adaptive cruise control and a 360° camera system.
Trim Levels & Pricing (Estimated)
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| S | $22,300 | 8″ touchscreen, Safety Shield 360, cloth seats |
| SV | $24,500 | 12.3″ digital display, push-button start, dual-zone climate |
| SR | $26,800 | Leatherette seats, 360° camera, sportier styling |
| SR AWD | $28,200 | Adds AWD, Bose system, premium tech |
Pros & Cons
Pros:
Budget-friendly pricing
Improved engine and now AWD available
Stylish exterior redesign
Excellent safety suite standard
Spacious cargo area
Cons:
No turbo or hybrid option yet
Not ideal for spirited highway driving
Interior plastics still present in lower trims
2025 Nissan Kicks Finance Guide (USA)
Let’s break down what it might cost you monthly to own a 2025 Kicks.
EMI Breakdown (Based on SV Trim: $24,500)
| Down Payment | Loan Term | APR % | Monthly EMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| $3,000 | 60 months | 4.5% | ~$396 |
| $2,000 | 72 months | 5.5% | ~$372 |
| $0 | 60 months | 6.5% | ~$480 |
Finance Eligibility (for U.S. Buyers)
Credit Score: 640+ preferred for standard APR
Income Proof: 2 recent pay stubs or tax returns
Employment: Full-time or verified self-employment
Residency: U.S. driver’s license and address proof
Down Payment: Not mandatory but improves loan offers
Tip: Check with your local Nissan dealership for seasonal finance or cashback offers. Many offer 0% APR for 36 months with strong credit!
Specs Chart: 2025 Nissan Kicks vs Rivals
| Feature | Nissan Kicks | Hyundai Kona | Toyota Corolla Cross |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $22,300 | $24,250 | $23,610 |
| AWD Available | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Horsepower | 141 hp | 147 hp | 169 hp |
| MPG (Combined) | 33 | 31 | 32 |
| Cargo Volume | 30/55 cu.ft | 25/45 cu.ft | 26/53 cu.ft |
| Touchscreen Size | 8″/12.3″ | 8″/12.3″ | 8″/10.5″ |
| Safety Suite | Standard | Standard | Standard |
Chart format:
| Trim | Starting Price | Wheels & Interior | Tech & Audio | Safety | Premium Package Options | MPG (City/Hwy/Combined) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S FWD | $21,830 | 16″ steel wheels, cloth seats | 7″ touchscreen, 4-speaker audio, Bluetooth® | Safety Shield® 360 | Not available | 28 / 35 / 31 |
| SV FWD | $23,680 | 17″ steel wheels, premium cloth | 12.3″ touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™, 6-speaker audio | Safety Shield® 360 + Adaptive Cruise Control | Adds wireless charging, moonroof, heated mirrors & seats | 28 / 35 / 31 |
| SR FWD | $26,180 | 19″ alloy wheels, leatherette w/ sport cloth | 12.3″ touchscreen, optional Bose® 10-speaker audio | Safety Shield® 360 + Around View® Monitor + Lane Intervention | Adds leather steering, upgraded tech | 28 / 35 / 31 |
| SR AWD | $27,680 | Same as SR FWD | Same as SR FWD | Same as SR FWD | Same as SR FWD | 27 / 34 / 30 |
Extra Specs (All Trims)
Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder, 141 hp, 140 lb-ft
Transmission: Xtronic CVT®
Dimensions: L 171.9″ × W 70.9″ × H ~64″
Ground Clearance: 8.4″
Cargo Volume: ~29–30 cu ft (FWD) / ~23.9 cu ft (SR AWD)
Fuel Tank: 11.8 gal
Warranty: 3 yr / 36k mi basic; 5 yr / 60k mi powertrain
Read Also :- Ford Mustang Mach-E EV 2026: Price, Specs & More | Buynextride
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is the 2025 Nissan Kicks good for long road trips?
Yes, the Kicks offers ample cargo space and comfort for 2–4 passengers. Its great fuel economy makes it an affordable road trip companion.
Q2: Does the Kicks have a hybrid or electric version?
Not currently. Nissan may explore electrification in the next few years, but for now, only gas engines are offered.
Q3: Can I buy the 2025 Kicks with bad credit?
Yes, many lenders work with scores as low as 580. However, you may face higher interest rates and need a co-signer or higher down payment.
Q4: How does the Kicks compare to the Nissan Rogue?
The Rogue is larger and more powerful but also more expensive. The Kicks is better for budget-conscious buyers in cities.
Q5: What colors are available for the 2025 Kicks?
Popular options include Electric Blue, Scarlet Ember, Super Black, Aspen White, and Gun Metallic. Dual-tone color combos are available too!