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Nissan Kicks Test Drive Video.

Here is a short video about the week I spent with the Nissan Kicks. A cute little crossover that is trying very hard to look and feel larger and more expensive than it is.

Of course, Nissan cut a few corners, but that’s very understandable on a car that starts at only $22,800. Which is, by the way, about $5000 cheaper than the cheapest Honda Civic hatchback. MPG is about the same as the Civic, or just a bit less around town. But unlike the Civic, the Kicks is not available with a Hybrid powertrain. Which in today’s gas prices, is sorely missed.

The trim I test-drove was over $30,000, but it was also loaded with a very nice Bose System, a panoramic sunroof, and much more (But still no power seats). The Civic does not offer a panoramic roof or even passenger seat height adjustments at any price. The Kick’s interior is also more modern and upscale.

I hope the short video above explains it all. (or most of it…)

Conversation 4 comments

  1. Unfortunately, I’m sure it has Nissan’s trash CVT, which means in a few years it will be in the top five of vehicles not to buy used.

  2. This is a decent little SUV for what it costs, but that’s also part of its problem. Nissan spent money on BS and cut corners on the core product: 2x sized moonroof (accessory pkg), bose headrest speakers, touch capacitive controls, orange accents. What I wish Nissan had put that money into was a multi-link suspension for the FWD version and more sound insulation…. not to mention the ePower engine option from the Japanese version (hybrid with a 1.4L direct injection generator). They should at least offer an accessory package for winter light (dual heated door mirrors, windshield area for wipers, fog lights) and light duty offroading, and a seating upgrade for more adjustability.

  3. You should compare it to the Honda HRV. I just realized the current HRV came out in 2023 and just started selling the 2027 (its 5th model year!) without any major revisions or even a hybrid. If Nissan gets aggressive with the Kicks features and continued improvement (like a hybrid), there’s no reason they can’t overtake Honda in this segment.

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