Estimated read time: 5-6 minutes
Budget-friendly new cars often require compromise — from subpar materials to underwhelming tech and uninspiring design. That's typically been the case, but the new Nissan Kicks has proven my biases wrong. After spending a weekend with the redesigned 2025 Nissan Kicks, I'm happy to report that this little SUV defies expectations in just about every way.
It's impressively well-rounded, genuinely fun to look at and loaded with thoughtful touches — all while staying remarkably affordable. I was genuinely surprised by the amount of attention and care Nissan invested in the new Kicks. If you're in the market for an economical ride that doesn't feel like a penalty box, this is one to seriously consider.
Here are several reasons why the 2025 Kicks punches well above its weight.
Pricing that makes sense
Let's get right to it: the Kicks' price tag is a major draw. The base model starts at just $23,000, and the top-trim SR model I tested begins around $27,000. Fully loaded with options, it came in just over $30,000. Compare that to Kelley Blue Book's estimate that the average new car costs nearly $50,000, and the Kicks stands out as a value-packed alternative.
Now with all-wheel drive
A significant new addition for 2025 is the availability of all-wheel drive, which previous Kicks models lacked. Ground clearance on the Kicks leads all competitors in it's class at 8.4 inches, making this compact crossover more capable in snow and slippery conditions. Add winter tires, and you've got a confident, cold-weather commuter ideal for Utah's varied terrain and hyperactive weather patterns.
Standout styling
For 2025, the Kicks is no longer a wallflower. With sharper lines, bold colors and plenty of quirky, thoughtful details, it has real personality. The new grille and sleek LED headlights bring an upscale look, while three-spoke wheels and two-tone paint options, such as Yuzu Yellow Metallic and Arctic Ice Blue, add a touch of fun and flair.
Look closer and you'll find Easter eggs, such as a mini Kicks logo on the mirror support and another subtly embedded in the D-pillar: small details with immense charm.
The headlights and taillights look sharp, too, with three horizontal lights working as the daytime running lights. The headlights are also true LED projector lamps — a very nice feature at any price.
Peppier performance
Under the hood is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 141 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. While it won't snap your neck back, it's more than adequate for everyday driving. The continuously variable transmission works efficiently to keep it in the right power band during merges and freeway passing.
Fuel economy is solid, too. It's rated at 27 mpg city, 34 mpg highway and 30 mpg combined.
Big interior upgrades
Inside, the new Kicks really impresses. Nissan improved the cabin with better materials, more space and a tech-forward layout. Highlights include a large 12.3-inch infotainment screen, a matching 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay, two rear USB-C ports and a 360-degree camera system.
An optional $1,950 Premium Package adds luxuries like a panoramic moonroof, heated front seats and steering wheel, remote start, rain-sensing wipers and a 10-speaker Bose audio system with headrest-mounted speakers — a rare feature in this segment.
Touchpoints also feel upscale. There's a glossy black climate panel with capacitive buttons, soft-touch door panels, two-tone seats and brushed aluminum trim. Nissan even paid attention to practical details like thick carpeting and extra-wide cupholders — perfect for your oversized drinks from Swig.
And as always, Nissan's Zero Gravity seats shine bright here. They're among the best in the industry, offering day-long comfort. Excellent visibility, thanks to the high seating position and slim A-pillars, is also a wonderful plus.
Spacious and functional
Rear seat passengers benefit from an extra inch of legroom compared to the previous generation, making the back seats surprisingly accommodating for a vehicle of this size. Materials are consistent with the front row, which gives the entire cabin a cohesive, premium feel. While it would be nice to have dedicated rear air vents, Nissan didn't cut corners on seat comfort or quality.
The cargo area is another highlight. It's flat, wide and includes thoughtful touches like additional side storage and a hidden compartment under the load floor — perfect for stowing valuables or emergency gear.
Overall, the interior is just a really nice place to be. It feels open and airy, especially with the panoramic roof option, and the combination of supportive seating, solid ergonomics and low cabin noise makes the Kicks a great companion for daily driving or road trips. Whether you're commuting, carpooling or loading up after a shopping run, it's genuinely comfortable and practical.
Solid driving experience
The Kicks is well-tuned for everyday driving. The steering is surprisingly direct, although it can feel somewhat soft at times. Ride comfort is generally good, but there is some choppiness on rough roads — a fair trade-off given the price.
As for acceleration, it's fine — you'll merge and pass without issue, but you'll likely be flooring it to get there. As Motor Trend's Justin Banner noted, "You're probably not going to get absolutely run over on flat highways, but accelerating under loads like a steep grade leaves you wanting more."
Final thoughts
The 2025 Nissan Kicks is one of the most well-executed subcompact crossovers on the market today, especially under $30,000. With its refined styling, improved tech, thoughtful features and newfound all-wheel drive capability, it offers tremendous bang for the buck.
As Mark Takahashi wrote for Car and Driver, "Altogether, with its former sacrifices fortunately eliminated, the 2025 Nissan Kicks represents a great pick in an important class."
If you want affordable, efficient and fun, without feeling cheap, the Kicks is absolutely worth a test drive.
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