Nissan Refines the 2025 Kicks

Photo Source: NISSAN

Nissan revealed the 2025 Kicks outside the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, ahead of the opening round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament and 2024 New York International Auto Show. Now that Nissan unveiled the second-generation version of the Kicks, the vehicle represents an evolution from the original model introduced eight years ago. This version promises a fresh perspective in the crossover segment. Like a pair of “boldly shaped and brightly colored sneakers,” Nissan claims, this new model should stand out from a slightly smaller, still crowded segment, including the Chevrolet Trax and Trailblazer.

Design Changes

Compared to its predecessor, the 2025 Nissan Kicks presents a noticeably boxier and more rugged appearance. Drawing inspiration from the Nissan Pathfinder, the front fascia depicts horizontal LEDs incorporated within a large black-finished area surrounding the grille. Even though the profile exhibits less sculpting, it features a sportier greenhouse design visually linked to the rear glass. At the rear, uniquely shaped LED tail lights blend seamlessly with a black trim.

The new Kicks has also grown in size. It measures 171.9 inches in length, 70.9 inches in width, and between 64-64.2 inches in height. To that end, different wheelbase lengths show up between the front-wheel and all-wheel drive variants: 104.6 inches for the front-wheel drive and 104.9 inches for the all-wheel drive version. The automaker asserts that the expanded dimensions enhance boot space, rear legroom, and shoulder room.

Meanwhile, the interior layout of the compact SUV is straightforward, featuring a flat-bottom steering wheel and a digital cockpit. Introductory-level trims integrate dual 7-inch display units, while upper-tier trims boast larger 12.3-inch screens. That said, Nissan selected a streamlined setup of touch-sensitive controls for the climate system, offering buyers a user-friendly arrangement. Moreover, depending on the trim, the Kicks offers up to four USB-C ports, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, and a wireless charging pad.

Under the Hood

On the mechanical side, the 2025 Nissan Kicks exclusively houses a new, naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-four engine linked to the Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). It accelerates up to 139 horsepower and generates 140 pound-feet of torque. To clarify, those figures mark a noticeable power boost of 17 horsepower and 26 pound-feet of torque compared to the 1.6-liter engine of the previous generation. It is worth noting that new for the Kicks is the now-available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, putting an ace up the sleeve of the model in a segment where crossovers typically feature front-wheel drive. 

Future owners will also be privy to a “Snow” driving mode and a ground clearance of 8.4 inches, confirming the all-wheel drive new-generation Nissan Kicks is not to be ignored when it comes to rough driving conditions. The 2025 Nissan Kicks is offered in three trims–S, SV, and SR–with optional Premium packages featuring amenities such as a panoramic sunroof and a Bose audio system with ten speakers, including ones integrated into the front headrests.

From its inception eight years ago to its current generation, the Nissan Kicks has undergone a massive transformation into a handsome crossover contender. If you believe this is the case, please come visit Nissan of Fort Pierce, where we have a friendly and knowledgeable sales team that will answer any pressing questions, provide financial assistance, and offer suggestions to help make paying for a vehicle easier. We are proud to be your dealership home.