Nissan’s 2023 Kicks is an ultra-small crossover offered in a trio of trims: S, SV, and SR. Common to all is a powertrain made up of a 122 hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable transmission; every Kicks has front-wheel drive. You’re probably reading about the Nissan Kicks because you’re efficiency minded, and in that case you’ll love that it achieves a best-in-class 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway as estimated by the EPA.
The S is a well-equipped entry-level trim with keyless entry, automatic on/off headlights, push-button start, power windows (the driver’s side has one-touch auto-up/down), a 12-volt power outlet, three USB-A media ports, air conditioning with a cabin microfilter, metal-toned interior trim, a 60/40-split second-row seat, and 16-inch steel wheels with covers. For driver-assist tech, there’s automatic high beams, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, reverse automatic braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear parking sensors. Everyone will stay connected and entertained by the 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which manages the smartphone integration (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay), Bluetooth for streaming audio and hands-free phone use, Siri Eyes Free, and sound system (with six speakers).
The SV provides a bit more convenience and style with remote start, Nissan Intelligent Key (proximity entry), under-seat heater ducts for the second row, frost-melting heated exterior mirrors, an electronic parking brake, a 7-inch Drive-Assist display, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, silver rooftop rails, a 7-inch gauge cluster, a USB-C charge port, a center console armrest with storage, and chrome interior door handles. Adaptive cruise control, automatic brake hold, intelligent driver alertness, and the Integrated Dynamics Control Module (active ride control, intelligent trace control, and an intelligent engine brake) are added to the driver-assist suite. The infotainment screen is larger (8 inches) and adds SiriusXM satellite radio to its attributes.
The SR represents the pinnacle of the Kicks lineup with special features like automatic climate control, remote start with cabin temperature controls, black sport cloth upholstery with orange accents and stitching, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Its exterior lighting is upgraded with follow-me-home LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, and LED fog lights, while the appearance raises the style factor with a dark chrome grille, black roof rails, high-gloss black side mirrors with integrated turn-signal indicators, silver exterior trim, and a rear roof spoiler. For added driver confidence, Nissan’s Intelligent Around-View Monitor is included.
The available Premium Package will add upgrades in a number of categories, starting with Prima-Tex simulated leather seating (heated in the front row) with orange contrast stitching. This package also provides a heated steering wheel, a vehicle security system, NissanConnect remote vehicle services, a cargo cover, and a top-quality Bose Personal Plus audio system with eight speakers, including Bose UltraNearfield speakers integrated into the driver’s headrest.
