2018 Nissan Kicks Review
Pros & Cons
- High fuel economy estimates
- Larger-than-average cargo capacity
- Inexpensive compared to rivals
- Less power than rivals
- All-wheel drive isn't available
- Missing a few desirable features
Other years
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Which Kicks does Edmunds recommend?
The SV trim appears to be the sensible pick in the 2018 Nissan Kicks lineup. It comes with creature comforts such as padded armrests, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and automatic climate control. You also get blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Edmunds' Expert Review
Driving
The Kicks' power output trails the class average. Certainly, it's adequate for low-speed driving around town, but add in a full load of passengers, or a college kid with all her belongings in the back, and you're going to be wishing for a little more grunt.
Interior
The Nissan Kicks takes a no-nonsense design approach to the cabin. The SR Premium package adds some visual interest with its simulated leather upholstery and contrasting stitching. The driver's seat has six-way adjustability, and it's well-cushioned and easy to get in a comfortable position.
Utility
Based on the spec sheet, the Kicks has one of the biggest cargo capacities in its class. The rear seats are split 60/40 and can be folded down to provide additional room.
Technology
Every Nissan Kicks comes with a 7-inch touchscreen. When you move up to the SV or SR trim, you also get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking is standard, which is a nice touch.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2018 Nissan Kicks.
Most helpful consumer reviews
Chris,03/31/2019
SR 4dr Hatchback (1.6L 4cyl CVT)
I really like my Kicks. Bought it brand new at around 50 miles and find it a steal at the price. It handles well and though the CVT is an adjustment, I really enjoy how it drives. As others have said, the climate control is picky. Either it blows really hot or really cold, no matter what temp you set it to. Dealership insists that its performing as designed. The collision detection tends to get 'blocked' by the rain, even in a light drizzle, and throws a warning light and notification. The entertainment touchscreen occasionally blacks out and becomes unusable until you restart the car, which is a minor annoyance but should be addressed by Nissan. My biggest concern so far has been that it once stalled the engine at a stoplight. We stopped, the Kicks shuddered and then stalled completely. We had to restart it in the middle of the road. Once again, Nissan claimed there was no problem with it when we took it in. I'll be much happier if Nissan addresses these problems. So far, they have issued NO recalls on a vehicle with clearly multiple issues.
Robynne ,04/20/2019
SV 4dr Hatchback (1.6L 4cyl CVT)
As of this review I have had my 2018 Nissan Kicks for 3 weeks which was purchased at Nissan Auto Centers in Wood River, IL. After having it for 1 week, the entire panel blacked out. I had no sound, no radio, no clock, nothing. I thought this was odd and maybe because the weather had turned cold overnight. After the car was on for about ten minutes the radio came back on. It happened again a couple of days afterwards. I contacted the dealer and was scheduled for an appointment. I took the car in and was told that it would need to be replaced. I was also told that since it was a new car it was still under warranty it would be no charge. They did something to it while I was there. I got back in and all was well until it went out again. I am strongly considering returning this car because if it is having issues at only 3 weeks, what will I experience moving forward. It also doesn’t have a quick pick up power (as it relates to speed). I am not feeling comfortable about this. Before I purchase another car, I am going to read the reviews.
Renee,01/15/2019
SR 4dr Hatchback (1.6L 4cyl CVT)
Car met my price point as well as my expectations. I needed a good commute car with decent gas mileage. That’s exactly what I got.
Don Kane,08/22/2018
SV 4dr Hatchback (1.6L 4cyl CVT)
Very good value and surprising standard features (rear view cam, blind spot warning, bluetooth, Sirius XM, are just a few of the things I like. I am a senior citizen and I get odd looks when I exit the vehicle (I guess people are expecting a younger driver). After a month of using I have enjoyed it. Nice job Nissan Corp, but not good follow up by the dealer (Modern Nissan of Cornelius, N.C. With now over 7800 miles all is well. Good value but only negative is the short warranty of 1 year or 10000 miles.
Safety
Our experts like the Kicks models:
- Forward Collision Warning
- Warns if a front collision is imminent with audible and visual alerts.
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Applies the brakes at full force if the forward collision warning is triggered and the driver does not respond in time.
- Blind Spot Warning
- Alerts the driver if a vehicle is lurking in a blind spot.
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