2022 Nissan Kicks Specs, Price, Photos, & Release Date. The 2022 Nissan Kicks is the smallest crossover in the lineup. The Japanese company replaced Juke in the US. Cute vehicle is still available in other markets. Kicks is offering something new– design and drivetrains. The vehicle debuted in 2018 and it is still early to see its first big update. Well, Nissan has big plans for the upcoming season, with a lot of debuts. Kicks will have to wait a bit until the carmaker decides to upgrade it.
Main source of power is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. A 1.3-liter unit could join the party, as well as the hybrid drivetrain. Whatsoever, Nissan will be focused on the all-electric segment and the subcompact class is not among the priorities. The 2022 Nissan Kicks remains pretty much the same, with identical trims to the existing squad.
2022 Nissan Kicks Specs
A 1.6-liter four-pot is a power source for the mini SUV. Its efficiency is the biggest reason why you should pick the 2022 Nissan Kicks. Still, its larger brother, Rogue, has a hybrid unit with similar returns. Still, the Kicks is going to bring 31/36 mpg, which is the excellent output for city cruising and everyday commuting. On the other hand, you won’t feel too much fun on the open road with only 122 ponies and 115 lb-ft of torque. Downside– the Kicks is not available with an all-wheel drive. We might see it in 2022. The front-wheel drive takes just under 10 seconds for 0-60 mph. A CVT is a power router.
Hybrid
This is only a rumor. The future will bring a lot more hybrid vehicles. Some experts claim the Japanese manufacturer will do the same with the 2022 Nissan Kicks. On the other hand, hybrids are not too popular in the subcompact class. That means the lack of competition. The same 1.6-liter four-banger could serve as the main generator and electric motor will boost the power and fuel economy.
The company presented the all-new Ariya concept. The compact crossover is meant to be an all-electric vehicle, but its platform can also serve for small hybrid vehicles. We will have to be patient and see Kicks Hybrid, which is likely to appear in 2022, alongside the AWD option.
Pros and Cons
Every season the company brings something new. In 2020, Nissan upgraded safety to an exceptional level for the subcompact vehicle. Well, these crossovers are well-known as the good choice if this is important to you. On the other hand, mini SUVs are very agile and fuel-efficient. For its class, the 2022 Nissan Kicks will stand out with the cargo capacity. Still, the vehicle can not tow too much. The infotainment system is good enough, while the upgrades can make it pretty advanced, especially if you choose navigation or Bose audio with more speakers. The starting price is under $20,000. You won’t find too many crossovers cheaper than that.
The lack of engine choices is the biggest downside. With only 122 hp, the crossover accelerates very slowly. Plus, the ground clearance of less than 7 inches is not promising too much fun off the road. Well, without all-wheel drive, it is not recommended to go with this model outside asphalt.
2022 Nissan Kicks Trim Levels and Prices
The base version of the 2022 Nissan Kicks will cost under $20,000. Don’t let the price trick you. The entry-level version is modestly packed with features. Still, there are a few highlights. The Safety Shield is the package that makes the Kicks better than other vehicles in the same segment. Cruise control is also available on the S model and you are getting the Bluetooth connection with devices. If you want Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, the SV trim will offer these services as a part of the NissanConnect infotainment system. You will also notice a larger 7-inch screen at the center of the dashboard.
The top of the lineup version is the 2022 Nissan Kicks SR. It features larger wheels, LED lamps, fog lights, and a spoiler on the outside. Inside, you will recognize this model thanks to special interior materials with orange accents. If Nissan develops Level 4 of autonomous drive and Kicks gets it, that will mean another new option for the SR version. We are also waiting for news about the NISMO package. A new engine is the centerpiece of this version. Until this happens, the most expensive model is not going to exceed the starting price of $22,000.
Competition
Subcompact crossovers are not popular as compact SUVs, most companies will produce such vehicles. Japanese archrivals are there with Honda HR-V and Toyota C-HR. Korean Kia and Hyundai electrified their Niro and Kona, while Seltos is an all-new product. Domestic products are also very popular. Jeep Renegade could soon get a smaller brother– Mini Jeep, or Baby Wrangler, while Ford is replacing EcoSport with Puma. If you want a luxury crossover, then it is best to trust German carmakers.
