10 Great Nissan Kicks Competitors: Which Alternatives Stack Up
Subcompact crossover SUVs are a dime a dozen these days. Indeed, buyers can find the right vehicle for their needs at any price point. However, the sheer number of options can be very overwhelming. If you’re in the market for a value-forward subcompact crossover, the Nissan Kicks is worth checking out.
Aside from the lower price tag, One of the primary draws of the Nissan Kicks is its exceptional fuel economy. This efficiency is a significant selling point, akin to what one might expect from a smaller economy car rather than an SUV. However, if this crossover doesn’t quite tickle your fancy, there are plenty of Nissan Kicks competitors to consider as alternatives.
1. Mazda CX-30
The Mazda CX-30 is an excellent alternative to the Nissan Kicks for several reasons. It has a more luxurious feel than the Kicks, and it comes with advanced safety technologies, such as automatic braking and lane-keep assist, as standard features.
Additionally, the CX-30 offers unique features like an optional around-view camera and heads-up display (HUD), which are not typically found in the Kicks. These features provide enhanced visibility and convenience. Moreover, some CX-30 trims have standard all-wheel drive capability, improving traction and handling, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
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2. Kia Soul
If you’re looking for more value-oriented Nissan Kicks competitors offering more utility, the Kia Soul might be for you. Notably, the Soul surpasses the Kicks in cargo capacity, with up to 62.1 cubic feet available with the second row folded, compared to the Kicks’ 32.3 cubic feet. Furthermore, the Soul provides more rear legroom and headroom than the Kicks.
Plus, the Soul’s longer warranty covering ten years/100,000 miles for the drivetrain is a clear advantage compared to the Kicks’ 5 years/60,000 miles warranty.
3. Hyundai Kona
The Hyundai Kona shines as a compelling alternative over the Nissan Kicks, mainly thanks to its powerful turbocharged engine option and great value for the price. Despite its smaller trunk space and less impressive standard engine, the Kona excels with its enjoyable drive, practical features, and cost-effectiveness. Hyundai ensures that even the most basic models are well-equipped with many sought-after features, so you don’t have to spend more to get more features.
4. Chevrolet Trax
The Chevy Trax stands out from the Nissan Kicks due to its more powerful engine options and advanced features. The Trax provides a base 137-hp turbocharged engine, which is more potent than the Kicks’ standard 122-horsepower engine, resulting in a more energetic driving experience.
Technology-wise, the Trax outperforms the Kicks by providing standard satellite radio and a Wi-Fi hotspot, which are not included in the Kicks. The Trax offers more creature comforts like available heated front seats and a heated steering wheel for chilly mornings, also unavailable in the Kicks.
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5. Volkswagen Taos
Buyers with more wiggle room on their budget may check out the Taos. Although it has a higher price, the Volkswagen Taos offers great value with its modern design. The car is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine that delivers 158 horsepower, providing strong performance, even though it may be a bit slow to start.
However, it’s not just about power; the Taos also impresses with its smooth handling, spacious interior and cargo area, and various tech features. These features include essential USB ports, a convenient wireless charger, and a Beats premium audio system that delivers superb sound quality.
6. Buick Envista
The Buick Envista is one of the top Nissan Kicks competitors, despite being more expensive. It outshines with a generous cargo capacity (42.0 cu-ft against 32.3 cu-ft), making room for extra gear or luggage. Under the hood, the Envista impresses with a robust 137 horsepower engine, outmuscling the Kicks’ 122 horsepower for a noticeable boost in performance. Maneuverability is another feather in its cap, thanks to a tighter turning radius.
7. Subaru Crosstrek
The Subaru Crosstrek is another excellent alternative to the Nissan Kicks, thanks to its superior features. It boasts a significantly larger cargo space, offering 54.7 to 54.9 cu-ft compared to the Kicks’ 32.3 cu-ft.
With engine options delivering up to 182 horsepower, the Crosstrek outperforms the Kicks’ 122 horsepower, ensuring a more dynamic driving experience. Plus, the Crosstrek boasts Subaru’s signature standard all-wheel drive, giving it an upper hand over the Kicks’ exclusively front-wheel drive. However, it’s worth noting the Crosstrek is more expensive than the Kicks.
8. Hyundai Venue
The Hyundai Venue is a worthy contender in the budget-friendly crossover SUV arena and is one of the best Nissan Kicks competitors. For starters, the Venue has a brand-new MSRP of less than $20,000, so it’s even more accessible than the Kicks. Plus, the Venue provides slightly more room for passengers in the back seat. While horsepower figures between the Venue and Kicks are closely matched, the Venue’s competitive pricing and passenger comfort make it an attractive alternative for budget-conscious buyers.
9. Kia Seltos
Positioned between the playful Soul and the more robust Sportage, the Kia Seltos offers an appealing choice for those weighing options against the Nissan Kicks but desiring something with a bit more sophistication than the Soul provides. Indeed, the base model Seltos LX might not dazzle with its powertrain or feature set, particularly when stacked against the Nissan Kicks’ higher-end offerings.
Despite the almost $4,000 higher price tag for the Seltos EX trim than the premium version of the Kicks, it offers a range of upscale features. By investing extra money, buyers can enjoy several benefits, such as all-wheel drive as a standard feature, a sunroof, premium faux-leather seating, front seats that are both heated and power-adjustable, etc.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE NISSAN KICKS
We look at the current generation of this SUV and determine the most reliable Nissan Kicks year and the ones you should skip.
10. Honda HR-V
The Honda HR-V offers several advantages over the Nissan Kicks. It features a more powerful engine and a significantly larger cargo capacity, offering up to 55.1 cubic feet with seats down, compared to the Kicks. Additionally, the HR-V includes standard adaptive cruise control and a higher-quality interior with options like a leather steering wheel. Plus, you can rely on Honda’s reputation for reliability, as opposed to Nissan’s questionable track record.
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