2019 Nissan Kicks Pros vs Cons

The new 2019 Nissan Kicks is the smallest crossover in Nissan’s lineup. While this subcompact SUV’s small size comes in handy in tight parking areas, its strong fuel economy helps commuters to save some extra cash. While several features come standard, drivers will especially appreciate the automatic emergency braking system. Car shoppers should also find the stylish Kicks to be very appealing to the eye. Is the new Kicks a worthy replacement for the discontinued Nissan Juke?

What’s New for 2019?

The Nissan Kicks was recently released last year. Unsurprisingly, no updates were made to the 2019 model. However, prices have increased by roughly $550.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2019 Nissan Kicks – The Pros

1. Made to Save Fuel

Powering the 2019 Nissan Kicks is a tiny four-cylinder engine, which musters up a total of 125 horsepower. While the Kicks may not pack a lot of brawn under the hood, it will return strong fuel economy. An automatic CVT helps keep the crossover in its most efficient power band. According to the latest EPA estimates, the Kicks will return 31 mpg in town and 36 mpg on the open road.

2. Good Automatic CVT

Over the years, continuous variable transmissions have been criticized for being boring. Some drivers hate not being able to feel any gears shifting. The 2019 Nissan Kicks has one of the best CVTs on the market. Not only is this CVT incredibly smooth and efficient, but it also operates more like a traditional automatic transmission. When you mesh the accelerator, Nissan’s Xtronic CVT responds immediately. You’ll also quieter than most of today’s others CVTs.

3. Easy to Maneuver

The 2019 Nissan Kicks is not the sportiest crossover in the segment. Nevertheless, drivers will find it to be very easy to move about. You’ll never feel uneasy while behind the wheel. Predictable steering enables you to experience a good sense of control. Meanwhile, a strut front suspension with stabilizer bar helps the Kicks to stay settled around curves. When navigating city streets, you’ll greatly appreciate the Kicks’ small turning radius.

4. Comfortable Little SUV

Despite being such a small SUV, the 2019 Nissan Kicks manages to treat passengers to a comfortable journey. Nissan’s Zero Gravity front seats have garnered great reviews. They help support your body without causing stiffness. Because the steering wheel is so adjustable, you will have no trouble finding a pleasing driving position. Good headroom enables tall people to ride without experiencing claustrophobia. This crossover also surprises with its enjoyable amount of rear-seat legroom. You shouldn’t hesitate to make the Kicks your main family hauler.

5. Fresh, Appealing Exterior Design

In comparison to the discontinued Juke, the 2019 Nissan Kicks looks a lot more pleasing to the eye. It does not suffer from any odd styling cues. In fact, it shares a lot of design cues with the popular Nissan Rogue. You’ll notice the Kicks’ similar V-Motion grille. While a total of 11 exterior colors are available, models with a contrasting roof color look especially cool. A rear roof spoiler is found on the sporty SR model.

6. Plenty of Value

Although the new Nissan Kicks is slightly more expensive than before, it still delivers plenty of value. Prices start at less than $19,000. Even the top-of-the-line SR model is priced under $21,000. A 60,000-mile powertrain warranty helps sweeten the deal. Even the least expensive trim packs some nice features. Some of the standard goodies include automatic emergency braking, a 7.0-inch touch screen, and Siri Eyes Free integration.

7. IIHS Top Safety Pick

By being named an IIHS Top Safe Pick, the 2019 Nissan Kicks proves small crossovers can deliver a secure ride. Furthermore, all trims provide the assistance of forward collision warning with automatic braking. Studies show these safety innovations will dramatically decrease your likelihood of crashing. Meanwhile, available blind-spot monitoring points out hidden vehicles. While the standard backup camera is effective, a 360-degree parking camera is found on the SR trim.

8. Nissan Connect Infotainment System Has Improved

In the past, Nissan’s infotainment system suffered from dated graphics and slow responsive times. The latest version of Nissan Connect is far more enjoyable. Its overall layout is a lot more user-friendly. Streamlined menus enable you to swiftly scroll through the various functions. You’ll also find Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the SV and SR trims.

9. Great Bose Personal Plus Sound System

The standard audio system is average at best. If you want to really rock out, get the excellent Bose Personal Sound system. Listeners rave about this system’s lack of distortion. Speakers in the driver’s headrest give you a court-side seat to the great sound. When you are listening to the Bose Personal Sound system, you’ll quickly start to feel more inspired.

10. Simple Features That Put Your Mind at Ease

Nissan designed to Kicks’ cabin to be simple and convenient. From the temperature controls to the infotainment system, everything is easy to use. You also won’t find any clutter inside the new Kicks. While some modern vehicles have started to use rotary gear shifters, the 2019 Nissan Kicks continues to use a traditional gear shifter. Clear gauges make the Kicks an even better vehicle for commuting.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2019 Nissan Kicks – The Cons

1. No All-Wheel Drive

Unlike subcompact crossovers like the Honda HR-V, the Nissan Kicks does not offer an AWD system. This issue could turn away drivers living in snow-prone regions of the country. They’ll likely need more traction. The absence of an AWD system also limits the Kicks’ ability to travel off the beaten path.

2. Needs More Performance

With a 0-60 time of 9.7 seconds, the 2019 Nissan Kicks is slower than some of today’s other small vehicles. In order to move out quickly, you’ll have to really step on the gas. Some drivers may desire just a bit more power. If you crave a more responsive crossover, check out the Mazda CX-3 and the MINI Cooper Countryman.

3. Lacks Some Safety Features

The Nissan Kicks is a safe vehicle. However, it does not offer certain advanced driving aids. Lane-keep assist is a feature that a lot of drivers would appreciate. You also can’t get the Kicks with adaptive cruise control. These safety innovations are available on the Honda HR-V and the Toyota CH-R.

4. No Sunroof

Some drivers enjoy having a sunroof. It enables fresh air and sunlight to enter the cabin. Unfortunately, a sunroof isn’t available for the 2019 Nissan Kicks. A lot of buyers would be willing to pay the extra cost.

5. No Navigation

When taking a road trip in the new Nissan Kicks, you’ll have to rely on your phone’s GPS or a traditional map to find your way. It’s not available with on-board navigation. This could be a small issue for the drivers who often travel to distant locations.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition

The 2019 Honda HR-V is among the best subcompact crossovers. Its family-sized interior will attract a lot of people. In terms of overall performance, there’s not much of a difference between the Honda HR-V and the Nissan Kicks. However, the Kicks does return slightly better fuel economy. Meanwhile, an optional AWD system helps the Honda HR-V to deliver a better performance in the snow.

While the 2019 Toyota CH-R comes standard with more standard safety features, it’s not nearly as comfy as the Nissan Kicks. Families will hate riding in the Toyota CH-R’s backseat. Furthermore, the Toyota CH-R’s exterior design creates a lot of blind spots.

When test driving the new 2019 Hyundai Kona, you’ll immediately notice its sportier nature. Industry-leading warranty protection gives you another reason to pick the Hyundai Kona. In the eyes of many automotive journalists, the Kona is a better bang for the buck.

Conclusion

If you decide to buy a new 2019 Nissan Kicks, you won’t be making a bad decision. In terms of fuel economy and comfort, this subcompact crossover shines brightly. Although all-wheel drive is not offered, most drivers won’t need it. Before you settle on the new Kicks, be aware of its so-so-performance.