The verdict: The redesigned 2025 Nissan Kicks proves that cars don’t have to be expensive to be interesting or stylish, as the small SUV offers an array of unconventional stylistic touches and a strong mid-trim feature set that belie both its price and class.
Versus the competition: The 2025 Kicks is larger than before, replacing both the prior generation and previously discontinued Rogue Sport in Nissan’s lineup. It now faces off against models including the Honda HR-V, Kia Soul and Toyota Corolla Cross. While the Kicks’ S trim level doesn’t offer much, the middle SV and uplevel SR trims are attractive and well equipped.
Expensive cars are so hot right now. Ignoring the crashing waves of comparably expensive electric vehicles, it seems most automakers deeply enjoy the apparent margins afforded by pricier vehicles subsidized by America’s alarming tolerance for big debt. Why sell one $20,000 sedan when you can sell 15 $65,000 pickup trucks?
Supply and demand, baby — it’s all an endless cycle. And, with the gradual weaning of the sub-$25,000 vehicle, a demand for affordability grows, leading to a few new bright spots of thrift, including the 2025 Nissan Kicks.
*MSRP and Invoice prices displayed are for educational purposes only, do not reflect the actual selling price of a particular vehicle, and do not include applicable gas taxes or destination charges.
