We drove this blue Nissan Kicks SR from Los Angeles to Las Vegas to attend the SEMA Show. When you think of the SEMA Show, you might envision the new Z or the EV Ariya, which was on display at the Nissan booth, but for us, we came away impressed with this particular Nissan. In fact, it was appropriately named because for our needs, this thing kicked #$%.
Let’s cut to the chase: The MSRP of our test vehicle–the top-of-the-line Kicks SR with the premium package–came to $27,110. It was loaded with standard features like the Bose® Personal Plus audio system6 with eight speakers (two located in the driver’s headrest!), heated front seats and steering wheel, Prima-Tex® appointed seats, NissanConnect® services and a Wi-Fi hotspot. All for under $30K. Talk about a value!
The Kicks is available in three grades, S, SV and SR.
With high gas prices these days, this compact crossover kept our expenses at bay with its best-in-class mpg rating of 31 city/36 highway/33 combined. We had to refuel in Primm at the CA-NV border because the gas tank is quite compact at 10.8 gallons. Something to keep in mind when going on long road trips.
Check out (below) the styling black roof rails, the dark chrome front grille and 17” alloy wheels.
Now that you know that this compact crossover comes with an array of standard features, achieves great mileage and is easy on the bank account. What’s the catch?
If we had to point a finger somewhere, the Kicks’ performance isn’t exactly what we would call exciting. The 122-hp 1.6-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine accelerates just fine, even when merging onto the interstate, among all the lead-footers speeding to get to Vegas. And while it won’t carve up a winding mountain road like a Z, it did fine as a long-distance commuter. Our trip from LA to Vegas took about four-and-a-half hours, with a breakfast stop. Ride quality was solid, and the suspension felt responsive, with minimal body roll. All of this actually made it quite fun to drive.
Although it is the smallest SUV in Nissan’s lineup, the interior is comfortable and the standard 18-in. touchscreen audio system, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity, three USB ports, and push-button start made for a pleasant drive to and back from our neighboring state.
I think the biggest thing going for the Kicks is the tech. The Kicks has almost everything a smartphone-using driver requires, and its adaptive cruise control is always helpful to warn you of the distance between you and the vehicle ahead. The surround-view parking camera system came especially handy when parking in tight spots.
All in all, this car is stacked with tech for the price point, makes great mileage and we give it a thumbs up for great value.
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