The 2024 Kicks is affordable, but it comes with some big tradeoffs including drum brakes, a tiny rear seat, and 16-inch steel wheels
September 19, 2023 at 19:06
Consumers have fallen in love with the redesigned Chevrolet Trax, but those looking for something else can check out the 2024 Nissan Kicks.
The crossover largely carries over, but the SV and SR trims now have NissanConnect Services and a three-year trial. It enables owners to remotely lock/unlock doors and start/stop the engine from their smartphone.
While the updates are small, so are the price increases as the 2024 Kicks starts at $20,790. That’s $200 more than its predecessor, which began at $20,590.
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Unfortunately, the small price tag is accompanied by poverty-spec equipment that includes halogen headlights, rear drum brakes, and 16-inch steel wheels. The interior also shouts cheap thanks to manual climate controls and an optional center armrest.
However, it’s not all bad news as the crossover has cruise control, power windows and locks, a six-speaker audio system, and a 7-inch infotainment system. They’re accompanied by a tiny rear seat with a mere 33.4 inches (848 mm) of legroom, which is a whopping 5.3 inches (135 mm) less than the cheaper Trax.
While the Kicks is basic with a capital B, the model comes equipped with an assortment of driver assistance systems. Highlights include Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking, and Lane Departure Warning. The crossover also has Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Higher-end variants are far more livable and the $23,350 Kicks SR has disc brakes as well as 17-inch alloy wheels. The model also has additional body-color components, roof rails, and mostly LED lighting units.
However, the SR is far from luxurious as amenities include a center console armrest and illuminated vanity mirrors. Buyers will also find an automatic climate control system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 7-inch display in the instrument cluster. Other highlights include an 8-inch infotainment system and Intelligent Cruise Control.
Motivation is provided by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 122 hp (91 kW / 124 PS) and 114 lb-ft (154 Nm) of torque. It’s connected to an Xtronic continuously variable transmission, which sends power exclusively to the front wheels.