The 2024 Nissan Kicks wears an SUV-like body, though it lacks all-wheel drive. Shop it against the Chevrolet Trax and Hyundai Venue.
It’s priced right and reasonably equipped, though a used SUV may offer more refinement for the money. The 2024 Kicks rates a 5.0 on the TCC scale. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
All versions now offer Nissan’s telematics system, which includes a three-year trial for various remote services.
The Kicks is a small, SUV-like subcompact with upright styling and a higher driving position than a subcompact car. Its exterior is expressive, if not exactly upscale. Look for plenty of brightwork and the illusion of a rugged appearance thanks to considerable unpainted trim. Just don’t try to go far off-road, though, since this is a front-wheel-drive model.
It’s less impressive inside, but the digital instrument cluster and touchscreen offer far more flash than the car you’re likely to trade in.
The 122-hp 1.5-liter inline-4 should offer enough power to move this lightweight model, but it’s saddled with a buzzy CVT. The combination means lots of revving to keep up with traffic, which translates into considerable interior noise. You’ll be turning up the radio at every opportunity to drown out the underhood thrum.
The Kicks has a soft ride and a nimble feel in town. On the highway, it’s unhappy—both due to the limited power output and narrow tires that can make it wander at speed.
Inside, look for decent cargo space and enough room to handle four passengers in a pinch. Flat front seats are fine for short stints around town, but even Nissan’s own Versa has more comfortable front thrones for commuting.
The standard 7.0-inch touchscreen has a dull display. We suggest opting for the mid-level SV model with its brighter 8.0-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility come standard across the range.
Nissan includes a decent level of crash-avoidance features. Standard automatic emergency braking is augmented by automatic high-beam headlights and blind-spot monitors. Adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system aren’t too costly to add on, either.
How much does the 2024 Nissan Kicks cost?
This year, the base Kicks starts at $22,125, which buys 16-inch steel wheels with hubcaps, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility via a 7.0-inch touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster, and basic crash-avoidance tech.
We’d spend up to $23,895 SV, which adds a brighter touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, and alloy wheels.
Where is the 2024 Nissan Kicks made?
In Mexico.
