The 2025 Nissan Kicks has arrived, and it’s a remarkable evolution from its predecessors. Known for being a subcompact SUV with a lot of character, the Kicks has garnered a reputation for its affordability, versatility, and stylish design. However, the 2025 model takes things a step further, addressing areas that needed improvement while introducing fresh features that enhance its appeal. During our test drive, we experienced firsthand how the Kicks has grown both in size and stature, delivering more space, better technology, and a more mature driving experience. Here’s everything new and improved about the 2025 Nissan Kicks.
Bigger and Bolder Design
One of the first things you’ll notice about the 2025 Kicks is its larger presence. While still considered a subcompact, the new Kicks sports a slightly more aggressive and rugged design. The front end has been revamped, featuring a bolder grille, sharper LED headlights, and a more pronounced V-motion design—a signature of Nissan’s latest lineup.
The SUV has grown in dimensions, providing more interior room while maintaining the agile proportions that Kicks fans love. The changes in size don’t just add a tougher exterior look but also translate to more comfortable passenger seating and increased cargo space—making it a more practical option for small families or individuals who want a compact SUV without compromising on usability.
Interior Comfort and Refinement
Step inside the 2025 Nissan Kicks, and you’re welcomed by a refreshed cabin that feels more upscale than its predecessor. Nissan has invested in upgrading the materials used inside, with more soft-touch surfaces, higher-quality plastics, and attention to detail that makes the interior a pleasant place to be. The seats are designed with comfort in mind, featuring Nissan’s Zero Gravity technology, which enhances long-distance driving comfort.
In addition to upgraded materials, the layout has been improved for better ergonomics, with buttons and controls more logically arranged and within easier reach of the driver. There’s more legroom in the front and rear, catering to passengers’ comfort, and the rear seats fold down to create a larger cargo area, perfect for weekend getaways or hauling larger items.
Enhanced Technology Features
Nissan has always packed the Kicks with a solid array of tech features, and the 2025 model ups the ante. The new Kicks comes equipped with an updated infotainment system that includes a larger 9-inch touchscreen (up from the previous 7-inch screen), now with crisper graphics and a more intuitive interface. The system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing drivers to seamlessly integrate their smartphones and enjoy hands-free calls, navigation, and media streaming.
In the higher trims, you’ll find an available 8-speaker Bose sound system, delivering crisp audio that’s perfect for music lovers. Another notable upgrade is the inclusion of wireless smartphone charging, which now comes as standard across most trims, adding convenience to the overall tech package.
For safety-conscious drivers, the 2025 Kicks is equipped with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. New for 2025, adaptive cruise control and a driver attention monitoring system are standard in the upper trims, making this subcompact SUV one of the safest in its class.
Powertrain: Same Engine, But Better Efficiency
Under the hood, the 2025 Nissan Kicks retains its tried-and-true 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. While this may not sound like a lot of power, Nissan has improved the engine’s fuel efficiency and driving dynamics, making it better suited for city and highway driving.
What makes the 2025 Kicks standout is its enhanced fuel economy, which is now rated at up to 37 miles per gallon on the highway and 31 mpg in the city, making it one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in the subcompact SUV class. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) has also been fine-tuned, providing smoother shifts and more responsive acceleration. While the Kicks is not intended for performance driving, its nimbleness and fuel efficiency make it a solid choice for those looking for an economical daily driver.
Improved Driving Dynamics
The 2025 Kicks is not just about looks and tech; Nissan has worked hard to refine its driving dynamics. The suspension has been slightly retuned, offering a more compliant ride, especially over rougher roads. This, combined with improved sound insulation, creates a quieter and more comfortable driving experience compared to previous models.
Handling remains nimble, with the Kicks excelling in urban environments where tight corners and small parking spaces demand precision. The steering feels light but responsive, making it easy to maneuver in congested areas, while its elevated driving position gives you a commanding view of the road ahead.
While the 1.6-liter engine may not satisfy those craving high-speed thrills, the Kicks shines in its ability to deliver a comfortable, smooth ride for everyday use. It’s perfect for city driving, commuting, and occasional highway trips, providing a stress-free driving experience.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2025 Nissan Kicks is offered in three main trim levels: S, SV, and SR, with the SR being the most feature-packed. The base S trim comes well-equipped with essential tech, including the 9-inch touchscreen, a rearview camera, and automatic emergency braking, making it a great value. The mid-level SV trim adds desirable features like adaptive cruise control, larger wheels, and keyless entry. The top-level SR trim brings a sportier design with upgraded wheels, LED headlights, and additional interior refinements, as well as advanced driver-assistance technologies.
Despite the increased feature set, Nissan has managed to keep the Kicks relatively affordable, with a starting price around $21,000 for the base S trim. Even the fully loaded SR trim remains below $27,000, making the Kicks one of the most competitively priced options in the subcompact SUV segment, offering plenty of bang for your buck.
Final Thoughts: What’s New and Improved?
The 2025 Nissan Kicks stands out as an excellent choice for drivers who value efficiency, technology, and modern design without wanting to break the bank. Its larger and bolder design, more upscale interior, improved technology, and enhanced driving dynamics all combine to make it a compelling option for urban dwellers and small families alike. While it’s not the most powerful SUV on the market, its fuel efficiency and well-rounded features make it a smart buy.
For those in the market for a practical, affordable, and stylish subcompact SUV, the 2025 Nissan Kicks should definitely be on your radar. Nissan’s decision to refine and improve key aspects of the Kicks has resulted in a more mature and capable vehicle that continues to punch well above its weight class. Whether you’re driving in the city or taking it on a weekend adventure, the 2025 Kicks is ready for the challenge.