2024 Nissan Kicks Review: Pricing, Performance, and Interior Comfort

Look, we get it. Subcompact SUVs are everywhere, and most blend into a blur of sameness. Enter the Nissan Kicks. It’s not trying to be a rugged off-roader or a luxury poser. It’s a city-slicking, gas-sipping, surprisingly stylish box that nails the basics without boring you to tears. Let’s break it down like a real human would:

Looks: Thank God, It’s Not Another Blob
Sharp & Sporty: Forget anonymous crossovers. The Kicks has actual lines – a bold V-motion grille, sleek LED headlights, and a stance that says “I have personality.”
Custom Flair: Two-tone paint options? Yes please. Make it orange with a black roof, or blue over gray. Stand out in the Target parking lot.
Compact Confidence: Tiny enough to thread through downtown chaos, but styled with enough attitude to avoid looking cheap.

Price & Trims: Shockingly Fair
Nissan gets it – you want features without bankruptcy.

1. S ($22,440): The base model? It’s actually good. Standard safety tech (more on that), Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and no feeling of being punished for budgeting.

2. SV ($24,300): Steps up the comfort & tech. Think better audio, extra USB ports, maybe some heated seats if you bundle right. The sweet spot for most.

3. SR ($25,000): Top dog. Fancy Bose stereo, sporty looks (blacked-out bits, unique wheels), and the best driver aids. For those who want it all (on a budget).

Driving: Slow & Steady Wins the MPG Race
The Engine: 1.6L four-cylinder (122 horsepower). Translation: Merging requires planning, not pedal-stomping bravery. It’s adequate, not exciting.
The Transmission: CVT – smooth operator, no jerky shifts. Perfect for stop-and-go hell.
The REAL Star: FUEL ECONOMY.
* 31 MPG City / 36 MPG Highway (EPA)
* Real-World Highway? Drivers report hitting 37 MPG. In 2024?! That’s borderline magic. Kiss the gas pump goodbye.
Handling: Nimble is the word. Tiny turning radius = parallel parking dreams. Suspension soaks up potholes decently. It’s built for urban survival.

Inside: Way Bigger Than It Looks

Space: Legitimately fits 5 adults without torture. Headroom? Excellent. Feels airy, not claustrophobic.
Tech:
* Standard: 8-inch touchscreen w/ Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (your phone runs the show, seamlessly).
* Upgrades (SV/SR): Glorious 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster (feels premium), wireless charging pad, and a Bose premium audio system that actually bumps.
Cargo Genius:
* 25.3 cu ft behind the seats (hello, Costco run).
* 53.1 cu ft seats folded (IKEA flat-pack? No problem). Out-punches many larger SUVs.

Safety: They Didn’t Cheap Out (Seriously)
Standard on EVERY Kicks (S, SV, SR): Nissan Safety Shield 360
Automatic Emergency Braking (sees pedestrians too!)
Blind Spot Warning + Intervention (tugs the wheel if you ignore it!)
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (backing out of crowded spots)
Lane Departure Warning + Prevention (gentle steering nudge)
This isn’t optional nickel-and-diming. It’s included. Huge win.

The Vibe: Chill Commuter, Not Corner Carver
Ride: Comfort-focused. Smooths out rough roads nicely.
Noise: Generally quiet, though some wind/road hum sneaks in at 70+ mph.
Steering: Light, direct, effortless for city weaving.
Overall: It’s relaxed. A stress-free daily driver, not a backroad burner.

The Honest Pros & Cons
LOVE:

• MPG for days (Seriously, 36 Highway is insane value).

• Looks cool without trying too hard.

• Safety tech standard – no paywalled peace of mind.

• Huge interior/cargo – Tardis effect.

• Price. Starts under $23k well-equipped.

WISH LIST:

• More power, please. 122 hp feels anemic merging uphill.

• Interior materials: Functional plastics dominate. It’s durable, not luxurious.

• Small fuel tank: Great MPG, but range could be better between fill-ups.

• Highway noise: Could use more sound deadening at speed.

Who’s This For? (Be Real)
Buy the Nissan Kicks if you:

• Hate spending money on gas.

• Drive mostly in the city/suburbs.

• Want safety features included, not extra.

• Need space but hate huge vehicles.

• Refuse to drive something boring.

• Have a tight budget but want new-car tech.

Skip it if you:

• Crave horsepower or sporty handling.

• Regularly haul heavy loads or tackle mountain passes.

• Demand luxury cabin materials.

The 2024 Nissan Kicks isn’t pretending to be something it’s not. It’s a fantastically practical, incredibly efficient, and genuinely stylish urban runabout. It packs surprising space and everyday-useful tech into a package that won’t bankrupt you at purchase or the pump. If your priorities are smart spending, easy driving, and standing out just a little, the Kicks absolutely deserves your driveway. It’s proof sensible doesn’t have to be snooze-worthy.