There are those of us who genuinely become excited about saving money. That’s the target audience for the 2023 Nissan Kicks. A pipsqueak among SUVs and crossovers, the Kicks doesn’t stand out for its styling, propulsion, or aspirational allure. Nope, it’s all about value. And, there is certainly plenty of that.
Understanding its basic value appeal, Nissan doesn’t tinker with the Kicks much from year to year. Consequently, the 2023 version returns untouched. The Kicks is a smart pick for those searching for an urban runabout that’s easy to park, delivers solid mileage numbers, and has a relatively generous cargo capacity.
We are particularly impressed with the standard bundle of safety and driver-aid features and the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in even the starter S trim.
In addition to the base S grade, Nissan offers the Kicks in the SV and top-of-the-heap SR trim.
All three grades source their power from a 122-horsepower 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine. This engine is well suited to the stop-and-go slog of downtown traffic. However, it may struggle a bit during overland excursions with multiple passengers and their luggage. The Kicks doesn’t offer all-wheel drive (AWD).
Engineered more for high fuel efficiency than aggressive acceleration, the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) with its pulleys and steel belt instead of gears helps minimize fuel consumption. According to the EPA, the 2023 Nissan Kicks delivers 31 mpg in the city, 36 mpg on the highway, and 33 mpg in combined driving.
The Kicks competes against the Hyundai Venue, Chevy Trailblazer, and Toyota C-HR, among others. Delivering better fuel economy and more overall cargo room than these competitors, the Kicks more than holds its own within the segment.
Let’s see how the various 2023 Nissan Kicks trim levels compare.
2023 Nissan Kicks S (starting at $20,290)
Anchoring the Kicks trim levels, the S surprises with its comprehensive bundle of safety and driver-aid technologies. At the top of the list? Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection. Joining it is rear-park assist with automatic braking, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
Other unexpected features for a vehicle at this price point are proximity keyless entry with push-button start, high-beam assist, and haptic steering-wheel safety alerts.
Overseeing the infotainment system is a 7-inch touchscreen. Along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system includes a 6-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, and Siri Eyes Free.
Among the other standard fare are 16-inch steel wheels, auto on/off halogen headlights, cruise control, hill-start assist, and three USB ports. Filling out the convenience features are a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel with audio controls and air conditioning. Full power accessories (windows, door locks, and outboard mirrors) are included, too.
Nissan doesn’t offer any factory-installed options for the S.
Adding the $1,295 destination fee to the S base price brings the total to $21,585. With no money down, financing for 60 months at 3% interest works out to about $388 per month. See 2023 Nissan Kicks S models for sale
2023 Nissan Kicks S includes:
Haptic steering wheel – This warning system is in addition to any audio warning issued by any safety features. The steering wheel vibrates slightly to tell you something’s amiss.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – These apps allow your smartphone to interface with your Kicks. Not only can you access the music on your phone, but you can also send messages, receive messages, and make calls through this compact Nissan’s media system.
Proximity keyless entry – If the key fob is on your person, the doors automatically unlock when you touch the door handle. Push-button start is paired with proximity keyless entry.
2023 Nissan Kicks SV (starting at $22,150)
The main features the SV adds to the S are adaptive cruise control, a 7-inch digital driver-information display, and remote engine start. Other upgrades are 17-inch alloy wheels, heated outboard mirrors, rear disc brakes, and an 8-inch touchscreen.
Nissan also brings in satellite-radio capability, driver-alert warning, and NissanConnect.
You can substitute a premium two-tone paint scheme for $650.
Adding the destination fee to the SV base price totals $23,445. Financing for 60 months at 3% interest with no money down works out to a monthly payment of about $421. See 2023 Nissan Kicks SV models for sale
2023 Nissan Kicks SV includes:
Remote start – When within range, you can start the vehicle without entering it with the key fob. It’s handy for precooling the Kicks in summer or preheating it in winter.
Adaptive cruise control – Once you have engaged the system and set the speed, it will maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, braking and accelerating as needed.
NissanConnect – This allows you to access your Kicks through your mobile device. Locking and unlocking your car, remote starting, summoning roadside assistance, and more are possible.
2023 Nissan Kicks SR (starting at $22,850)
You might not expect much additional equipment, with only $700 separating the SV and SR. However, the SR has several worthwhile upgrades. They include LED headlights and fog lights, heated power outboard mirrors with integrated turn signals, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Upgraded seat fabric, a surround-view camera, and automatic single-zone climate control complete the notable enhancements.
Paying another $1,390 for the SR Premium Package gains you an 8-speaker Bose audio system, faux-leather seating, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and more.
Adding the $1,295 destination fee to the SR base price totals $24,145. Financing for 60 months at 3% interest with no money down works out to a monthly payment of about $434. See 2023 Nissan Kicks SR models for sale
2023 Nissan Kicks SR includes:
Surround-view camera – It provides a 360-degree bird’s-eye view around the vehicle. This technology is valuable for getting in and out of tight city spots.
LED headlights – These bulbs illuminate a larger area than typical incandescent or halogen lights.
Mirrors with integrated turn signals – These are heated power outboard mirrors with turn-signal repeaters installed on their outer shell.
