When getting a used Nissan Kicks, you won’t find much better on the market. It is both stylish, and affordable, and when you throw in the great features, it’s the top of every used lot. We’ll take a look at how this model has changed over the years, so you know who year is the best for you.
Key Takeaways
- If you’re a sports mom who wants the best mileage to get your kids to the field, no matter where it is, then you’ll want something from the first generation.
- Out of the two generations, they both share the same trims.the S offers the best value for those who want the best price and some decent features to go with.
- While it may be tempting to go with the most recent generation, it may be more beneficial, and easier to go with a first generation model, despite the upgrades the new one has.
Second Generation (2025-Present)
While this is technically a newer model at the time this article goes out, over time they will enter the market, so we want to give you a leg up. This new model brings a new engine to the table, this one being the 2.0L I4. This engine is more powerful than what powered the previous generation, able to output 139 horsepower. That’s only half the story, as the engine is also very efficient, coming with an EPA rating of 31 MPG combined.
When moving to the interior, there’s a few new areas to the Kicks. This model will come with a pair of 7-inch screens. This houses the digital gauges, and the infotainment screen. If you’re wanting something a bit larger, then you can keep an eye out for models that are equipped with the 12.3-inch screens. This adds a slight upscale edge, while keeping the price low.
While on the base trim, the S, you’ll find that it comes with cloth seating. While this isn’t the most luxurious, you may be able to find models that are equipped with heated seats. But if you’re still wanting a bit more, then you’ll need to find higher-end trims which are the SV and SR, as these will come with leatherette seats.
The last area that makes the Kicks standout is the inclusion of the wireless charging pad. This makes sure that even on the longest drives, you’ll stay at full juice without needing to think about it.
First Generation (2018-2024)
As we mentioned earlier, this model came with a smaller 1.6L I4 engine. While this engine only made 125 horsepower, it did come with some more mileage, coming with an EPA rating of 33 MPG.
This model came in the S, SV, and SR trims, just like the ones that are still around on the newer generation. In this generation the Kicks was still trying to find itself. The lack of power features for the seats left a bit to be desired, but if you’re wanting something for a great price, then that might be easier for you to look past. If you’re wanting phone connectivity through Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, then you’ll want the more upscale trims, with all trim levels sharing the same 7-inch screen.
If you’re wanting something that comes with a larger screen, you’ll want a model from 2021 and later. This is because the lineup saw a facelift, which came with an 8-inch screen for the SV and SR trims. While this isn’t as large as the most recent generation, since these are “older”, you’ll find them easier and for less. Some other things that you can find from this change are the Wi-Fi hotspot, and the adaptive cruise control.
Is a used Nissan Kicks a safe buy?
We think so, yes. When it comes to affordable used crossover SUVs, it’s hard to beat the Kicks. If you’re wanting to see some of the best around, then come on down to an Alan Jay location. We have the inventory, and the team to help make sure you get what you’re looking for.