Last week, I had the chance to be one of the first behind the wheel of the all new 2018 Nissan Kicks crossover. The production Nissan Kicks retains the basic design cues taken from the Kicks concept – first shown at the 2014 São Paulo Motor Show. As the newest member of the Nissan crossover/SUV family, this compact yet powerful crossover offers expressive style and technology that moves with you all at an unbelievably affordable price!
The all new 2018 Nissan Kicks boasts three important benefits that differentiates it from similar competitors. The Nissan Intelligent Mobility system highlights an upgraded driving experience, power and integration.
Driving
You won’t find an introductory crossover vehicle with as many driver safety features as the Nissan Kicks. It’s equipped with an automatic emergency braking system that’s literally a life saver for distracted drivers — and it comes standard across all trim levels. The mid-trim (SV) adds blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert while you get all that and more, including a 360-degree camera on the premium trim (SR) model. Good luck finding that in Kia Soul, Hyundai Kona or Ford Eco Sport. Check out the Nissan Kicks drive in action below.
Power
The Kicks is a lightweight packed with enough power to get you where you’re going in a hurry. The 1.6-liter four cylinder engine kicks out 125 horsepower and 115 found-feet of torque. What does that mean for you? It’s compact and quick enough for its size and class to be a great value for any new driver. Plus it has a “sport mode” feature that’ll give your drive a little bit of ommph when you want it. The Kicks has an EPA of 31 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway, compared to the competition, there’s no comparison.
Integration
Apple Car Play / Android Auto optimized integration makes the transition from home to being connected on the go seamless and easy. As an entry level crossover equipped with Apple Car Play / Android Auto is a big deal especially since most of us practically work, play and live from our smartphones. At this point any vehicle not equipped with Apple Car Play or Apple Android is a prehistoric fossil on four wheels.
In addition to the availability of both connection systems, the Kicks comes equipped with three USB ports (which is more than some larger crossovers and SUVs) making it easy for everyone to charge up on the go.
The 7” Nissan Connect infotainment system is pretty user friendly, but beware, you’ll have to use your smartphone for any navigation as standard in system navigation is unavailable. While navigation maybe lacking, the booming Bose stereo system premium package is well worth the upgrade and blows the competition away.
Style
The expressive style found in the Kicks illuminates from the inside out. The interior driver and passenger seats boasts comfy Zero Gravity seats created to alleviate driver (and passenger) fatigue during longer drives.
You’ll find unique elements of design from colorful interior stitching to Nissan signature grill and tail lights. The seven available Kicks exterior colors include Brilliant Silver, Gun Metallic, Super Black, Cayenne Red, Fresh Powder, Aspen White (premium color) and Deep Blue Pearl. The five available two-tone paint combinations are (roof color listed first): Super Black/Aspen White, Monarch Orange/Gun Metallic, Super Black/Monarch Orange, Super Black/Cayenne Red and Fresh Powder/Deep Blue Pearl.
You won’t find a subcompact crossover priced and packed with as much value as the Nissan Kicks. It’s funky style, smart design and tech ingenuity makes it a crossover packed with value. Starting at $17,990, its less expensive than competitive vehicles like the Ford EcoSport and Hyundai Kona and makes a great first car for upcoming graduates or drivers looking to downsize from larger Suvs. As the gateway to Nissan’s adventure-ready sport utility portfolio – joining Rogue Sport, Rogue, Murano, Pathfinder and Armada – Kicks is designed to fit the needs of singles or couples looking for unique styling, roominess, personal technology, smart functionality and advanced safety features at an affordable price.
For more on the all new Nissan Kicks visit Nissanusa.com.
