2021 Nissan Kicks: Subtle but Welcome Improvements
Competes with: Ford EcoSport, Honda HR-V, Hyundai Venue, Toyota CH-R
Looks like: The Kicks receives Nissan’s latest edgy styling treatment
Powertrain: 122-horsepower, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine; continuously variable automatic transmission; front-wheel drive
Hits dealers: February
If you think it’s getting harder to find cheap subcompact new cars these days, that’s because it is — they’re all being replaced by models like this, the 2021 Nissan Kicks. Inexpensive subcompact SUVs, or SUV-like tall hatchbacks, are the name of the game these days, and Nissan has given its own entry-level contender a refresh after just three model years, all part of the automaker’s effort to introduce 10 new or refreshed models globally in the next 20 months. The Kicks receives some new styling and technology, plus new colors and a few welcome improvements inside to improve comfort and convenience.
Related: 2020 Nissan Kicks: Which Should You Buy, 2019 or 2020?
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Exterior
Outside, the new Kicks gets a new grille, available LED headlights, new foglights and a new bumper up front, all of which keeps with Nissan’s latest design ethos and to bring the Kicks in line with the new Rogue, all-electric Ariya, and just-unveiled 2021 Armada. Out back, the differences are more subtle, with new taillights and a new rear bumper and liftgate finisher. Three new colors are available — new shades of blue, gray and red — which are also available in two-tone trim with a contrast black roof. Shoppers can also customize their Kicks with a dozen different colored elements, including wheel caps and inserts, mirrors, vents and more.
Interior
Changes inside are fewer and more subtle. A new center armrest attaches to the modified center console instead of the driver’s seat so both front-seat occupants can enjoy it. Up to four USB ports are available in the Kicks (two USB-A, two USB-C), while interior materials get a bit of an upgrade, as well, with new dashboard trim and door armrest upholstery, plus different side vents.
Nissan upgraded onboard connectivity, too. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard across the board, with a bigger 8-inch touchscreen now optional. (A 7-inch touchscreen, the Kicks’ only offering for 2020, remains standard on base trims.) NissanConnect comes with the 8-inch touchscreen, and you get six months of Nissan’s concierge services. A Wi-Fi hot spot is available, as is keyless entry with remote start and a Bose premium audio system.
Engine and Transmission
Mechanically, nothing has changed for the Kicks. It’s still powered by a modest 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 122 horsepower and 114 pounds-feet of torque. It’s connected to the front wheels via a continuously variable automatic transmission; all-wheel drive is not available, making the Kicks something more of a tall hatchback than a proper SUV in some people’s eyes. At least it’s good for respectable fuel economy: 31/36/33 mpg city/highway/combined, which remains unchanged from 2020.
Safety
As before, the Kicks has an impressive array of standard safety features, including front and rear automatic emergency braking, high-beam assist, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert and blind spot warning. Optional is adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system.
Trim levels aren’t changing for the Kicks, which will still have three possibilities: S, SV and SR, with the SR also offering an optional premium package. No pricing is yet available, but it should come shortly before the 2021 Kicks’ on-sale date of February.
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