News: 2018 Nissan Kicks Arrives

Nissan’s New Kid On The Block

Have you seen the 2018 Nissan Kicks on the road yet? If not, you will soon. This all-new five-door (hatchback), small crossover utility vehicle (CUV) is predicted to become a very common sight, especially in cities where projected sales will be the strongest.

The brand-new Kicks more-or-less replaces the Juke as the subcompact crossover in the Nissan line-up. The Kicks joins the Rogue Sport, Rogue, Murano, Pathfinder and Armada, allowing Nissan the opportunity to say they have a size and model for everyone. Whether it’s a first car for young adults or families wanting up-to eight passenger capacity, Nissan feels they have what you will need.

A shared project between Nissan’s design teams in Japan, Brazil and the U.S., the Kicks has a flair to it that reflects Rio de Janeiro as well as the practicality of the United States. The Kicks design will be familiar as it carries Nissan’s V-motion grille, “boomerang” head and tail lights, and floating roof that ties the windshield into the front windows. Nissan says the Kicks has “an expressive sense of style” and it “combines emotion and practicality.” In the very crowded compact crossover segment, it is a challenge to design a vehicle that will stand out. Nissan has included design cues of a blacked-out C-pillar, and wheel arches that accentuate the Kicks’ stance and presence.

The Power Details

The 2018 Kicks is powered by a 1.6-liter, non-turbo four-cylinder engine. Nissan’s Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) drives the front wheels. AWD is not offered. This combination puts out 125 horsepower and 115 pound-feet of torque, and delivers an estimated fuel economy of 31 city/36 highway/33 combined. These numbers make the Kicks best-in-class.

The interior seats up to five, but four would be more comfortable. However, if Nissan hits its targeted buyer—young adults and singles—then plan on the 60/40 split, fold-down rear seat to be lowered most of the time. Packing for weekend outings and long road trips will be a breeze, as the Kicks will handle pretty much what needs to be stowed for two people.

The infotainment system offers all the sound and music sources you want, with an optional Bose system that could become the best stereo you own. Advanced driver assistance technologies, expected on all new cars, are either standard or available as part of trim line packages.

There are three 2018 Kicks models, with these base prices:

S at $17,900,
SV at $19,690, and
SR for $20,290.

Options and the $995 destination and handling fee are extra.

Clean Fleet Report will have full reviews soon of the 2018 Nissan Kicks. Until then, you can visit your local Nissan dealer and check it out for yourself.