The subcompact crossover has grown in size, providing a more spacious and technology-packed interior.
Nissan unveiled the all-new generation of the Kicks subcompact crossover, boasting significant improvements across the board. This iteration is larger, offering more room for passengers and cargo, packing a more powerful punch under the hood, and comes loaded with new features, highlighted by the introduction of all-wheel drive as an option for the first time in the Kicks lineup.
More Powerful Engine And AWD Option
Beginning with the mechanical components, the 2025 Nissan Kicks is exclusively available with a new naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine generating 139 hp (104 kW / 141 PS) and 140 lb-ft (190 Nm) of torque. This marks a significant boost of 17 hp (13 kW / 17 PS) and 26 lb-ft (36 Nm) compared to the 1.6-liter unit in the previous generation.
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The non-electrified powertrain is coupled with Nissan’s latest iteration of the Xtronic automatic gearbox (CVT), distributing power to either the front or all four wheels. The optional Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, available across the lineup, stands out as a key feature of the new generation. Combined with the “Snow” driving mode and a ground clearance of 8.4 inches (213 mm), it bolsters the crossover’s capabilities for light off-roading.
Larger Footprint And Boxier Styling
The 2025 Nissan Kicks embraces a much boxier and more rugged appearance compared to its predecessor. Drawing inspiration from the Chinese-spec Nissan Pathfinder, its front end showcases horizontal LEDs seamlessly integrated within a large black-finished area surrounding the grille. While the profile displays less sculpting than before, it boasts a sportier greenhouse design visually linked to the rear glass. At the rear, uniquely shaped LED taillights seamlessly blend with a black trim reminiscent of those found on the similar-sized Alfa Romeo Milano.
The subcompact crossover measures 171.9 inches (4,366 mm) in length, 70.9 inches (1,801 mm) in width, and 64-64.2 inches (1,626-1,631 mm) in height. Interestingly, there is a slight variation in the wheelbase, which spans 104.6 inches (2,657 mm) for the FWD model and 104.9 inches (2,664 mm) for the AWD versions.
More Tech And More Space Inside
These figures make it 2.8 inches (71 mm) longer, 1.6 inches (41 mm) wider, and up to 0.8 inches (20 mm) taller than the previous generation, resulting in a more commanding road presence and a more spacious cabin. It also offers an additional 1.5-1.7 inches (38-43 mm) of shoulder room, 0.9 inches (23 mm) of rear legroom, and a more practical boot with a flexible luggage board and a hidden storage compartment underneath.
The dashboard has a simple layout with a digital cockpit and a flat-bottom steering wheel. The entry-level model comes with dual 7-inch displays which are upgraded to larger 12.3-inch screens for the rest of the lineup with available wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The climate controls are located in a separate section below but their touch-sensitive nature might irritate some buyers who prefer regular buttons. Equipment can include up to four USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad.
The 2025 Nissan Kicks is available in three grades – S, SV, and SR. Furthermore, buyers have access to two optional Premium packages, adding cool features like the panoramic sunroof and the Bose audio system with 10 speakers including those integrated into the front headrests.
All trims come standard with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 ADAS Suite (including Intelligent Cruise Control), upgraded to the more sophisticated ProPILOT Assist in the flagship SR trim.
The 2025 Nissan Kicks made its first public outing at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn before heading to the 2024 New York Auto Show on March 27. Pricing will be announced closer to the market launch which is scheduled for late summer 2024 in the US and Canada. Judging from the significant upgrades, we wouldn’t be surprised if the 2025 Nissan Kicks turns out to be more expensive than its predecessor which started at $20,790.