Newly redesigned and a contender for fantastic new compact SUV meet the 2022 Nissan Kicks.
Recently named one of the “Best New Cars for 2021” and “10 Best Car Interiors Under $50,000 for 2021.” by Autotrader, the 2022 Nissan Kicks was a fan fave during our test drive. Rolling into the next year of the new design, we first spotted this one at the 2022 Texas Auto Writers Association Texas Auto Roundup, it kept drawing our eye and begging to be driven.
Once inside, it did not disappoint. With its impressive list of standard and available features Nissan has stacked the deck in the consumer’s favor with this drive.
TECH-ENABLED, EFFICIENT AND LIFE READY
Today’s buyer expects seamless tech connectivity to stay connected and engaged in their everyday life. The Kicks offers standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ in all 2022 Kicks trim levels, and it pairs well with the other convenience and safety features included in the Nissan Connect and Nissan Safety Shield systems.
The Nissan Safety Shield includes 360, which includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, radar-based Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, High Beam Assist and Rear Automatic Braking. The kids’ favorite was the in-car Wi-Fi hotspot, but I dug the keyless entry and ease of the infotainment center.
Also, with the price of gas in America, fuel economy is a definite factor to consider in a vehicle. The Kicks boasts strong numbers, about 33 mpg combined and 31 in stop and go and 36 on the highway.
ABOUT THE DRIVE
We found that ride is smoother than expected in a value-conscious vehicle, and that the interior is ready for the daily adventure. Easily wipeable and neatly finished, the interior is sharp and clean — all signals that the next direction of Nissan is full in effect.
All combined, it makes a compelling offer from Nissan.
ABOUT PRICING
Starting at less than $20,000, the Nissan Kicks comes in three tiers and tops out at $22,250. The three tiers are the S, SV and SVR. Each trim comes standard with the 1.6L 4-cyclinder gas powered engine, Nissan Connect tech connectivity package and confidence boosting Nissan Safety Shield. As you move through the trims, the comfort and convenience features increase such as the leather-wrapped steering wheel available in the SVR. My favorite trim is the SV with a nice combination of comfort and convenience and a gentle price point at less the $22K. More details on the trim breakdown are available here
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