The 2025 Nissan Kicks comes in three main trim levels: S, SV, and SR
The 2025 Nissan Kicks is a subcompact crossover available in three configurations, each adding features as you move up the lineup. The base S trim includes air conditioning, power windows and locks, a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a backup camera. The SV trim adds heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and fog lights. The SR trim, the highest level, includes all-weather floor mats, roof rails, and additional interior refinements.
All three trims use the same 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. Every 2025 Kicks comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. The engine is paired with either a five-speed manual transmission on the S trim or the CVT on SV and SR models, depending on your preference and market availability.
Key Takeaways
- The S trim is the entry-level model with essential features like air conditioning, power windows, and a touchscreen infotainment system.
- The SV trim adds comfort features such as heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and fog lights for improved visibility.
- The SR trim is the top configuration and includes roof rails, all-weather floor mats, and additional interior styling touches.
- All 2025 Kicks models use the same 1.6-liter engine and come standard with front-wheel drive.
- Safety features like automatic emergency braking and a backup camera are standard across all trim levels.
Safety features included on every 2025 Kicks
Nissan's Safety Shield 360 suite comes standard on all 2025 Kicks trims. This package includes automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping information. A backup camera is also standard, helping you see behind the vehicle when reversing. Blind-spot monitoring is available on SV and SR trims but not on the base S model.
The Kicks earned a four-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in its most recent testing. It received five stars for side crash protection and four stars for frontal crash and rollover tests. These ratings reflect how the vehicle performed in standardized crash tests, though real-world safety depends on many factors including driver behavior and road conditions.
Interior space and cargo capacity across trims
The 2025 Kicks has 24.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 53.1 cubic feet when you fold the rear seats down. This is one of the Kicks' main selling points for a vehicle in its class—the interior feels more spacious than competitors of similar size. All three trims have the same cabin dimensions and cargo area; the difference is in the materials and comfort features you get.
The S and SV trims come with cloth upholstery, while the SR trim offers a cloth interior with upgraded trim pieces. Seating is five passengers across all configurations. The rear seats fold in a 60/40 split on all models, giving you flexibility when you need to carry longer items or maximize cargo room.
Technology and infotainment options
Every 2025 Kicks includes a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to connect your smartphone for navigation, music, and messaging. The S and SV trims have the same infotainment system; the SR adds no additional technology features. Bluetooth connectivity and a USB port for charging are standard on all models.
Nissan does not offer a premium audio upgrade or navigation system on the 2025 Kicks. If you need turn-by-turn directions, you will rely on your phone's mapping app through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The base audio system has four speakers and is adequate for everyday listening, though some drivers prefer aftermarket upgrades for better sound quality.
Fuel economy and engine performance
The 2025 Nissan Kicks with the CVT transmission achieves an EPA-estimated 31 miles per gallon in the city, 39 mpg on the highway, and 34 mpg combined. The five-speed manual transmission on the S trim achieves slightly different numbers: 28 city, 35 highway, and 31 combined. Both figures assume regular gasoline and front-wheel drive. Real-world fuel economy varies based on driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance.
The 1.6-liter engine is designed for efficiency rather than performance. Acceleration is modest—the Kicks is not built for quick highway merging or spirited driving. It is well-suited for city commuting, parking in tight spaces, and keeping fuel costs low. The CVT transmission is smooth and responsive in everyday driving, though some drivers find it less engaging than a traditional automatic.
Exterior styling and color choices
The 2025 Kicks maintains Nissan's current design language with a rounded, friendly front end and a tall roofline that contributes to its spacious interior. All three trims share the same body shape and overall proportions. The SV and SR trims add fog lights, which improve visibility in poor weather but are not essential for safety. The SR trim includes roof rails, which are useful if you plan to carry a roof rack or cargo carrier.
Nissan offers the 2025 Kicks in several exterior colors, including Pearl White Multi-Coat, Aspen White Pearl, Magnetic Black Metallic, Scarlet Ember Tintcoat, and Brilliant Silver Metallic. Color availability may vary by region and dealer. Some colors carry an additional charge beyond the base price.
Pricing and what each trim costs
The 2025 Nissan Kicks S trim starts at a lower price point than the SV, which in turn costs less than the SR. Exact pricing varies by region, dealer, and current incentives. Your actual cost will also depend on destination charges, taxes, and any dealer-added options or packages. It is worth getting quotes from multiple dealers to compare final prices.
The gap between trims is modest—the jump from S to SV adds heated seats and a leather steering wheel, while the jump to SR adds roof rails and interior trim upgrades. If you are budget-conscious, the S trim covers the essentials. If you spend significant time in cold weather or want a more refined interior, the SV or SR may feel worth the additional investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get all-wheel drive on the 2025 Nissan Kicks?
No. The 2025 Kicks is available only with front-wheel drive. If all-wheel drive is important to you, you would need to consider a different Nissan model, such as the Rogue or Qashqai, which offer that option.
Does the 2025 Kicks have a sunroof or panoramic roof?
The 2025 Kicks does not offer a sunroof or panoramic roof on any trim level. The vehicle comes with a fixed roof across all configurations.
What is the difference between the S and SV trims besides heated seats?
The SV adds heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and fog lights compared to the S. Both have the same infotainment system, engine, and cargo space. The SV is aimed at drivers who want more comfort features without stepping up to the SR's additional styling touches.
Is the manual transmission available on all 2025 Kicks trims?
The five-speed manual transmission is available only on the S trim. The SV and SR trims come exclusively with the CVT transmission. If you prefer a manual, your only option is the base S model.
How many passengers can the 2025 Kicks seat?
All 2025 Kicks trims seat five passengers: two in front and three in the rear. There is no option for a third row or additional seating capacity on any configuration.