Nissan enters Grasso’s Garage for the first time in 2025 with its entry-level, top of the line commuter SUV. Wrapped in two-tone Arctic Ice Blue, the redesigned 2025 Nissan Kicks SR is here with futuristic styling and design that proves Nissan is in it to win it.

With a $26,000 base price, the Kicks SR offers a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine with 141 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque, paired with the Xtronic CVT transmission and three drive mode options. Options including a panoramic moonroof, Bose 10-speaker audio, heated front seats, steering wheel and mirrors can be added for another $2K. Our tester had splash guards, 19-inch wheels and two-tone paint. Included as a bonus are three scheduled oil changes within the two-year/24,000-mile range. NissanConnect features include wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, hands-free text messaging and a 12.3-inch color-touch screen center display system.

While Nissan continues to push the “Compact Meets Confidence” mantra for the Kicks, we certainly agree that the compactness exceeds expectations — impressive for an under-$30K five-seater SUV. The Kicks is simply designed for good fuel mileage and great pricing. It's a great option for college students, small families and city drivers looking for an easy-to-park vehicle.

The Kicks has a lot of competition from the Chevrolet Trax, Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-3 and Kia Soul. These other options have similar standard features and options, but they mostly lack in styling and design. The compact SUV category is simple; it’s all about price, reliability and space. The Kicks SR gets accolades for its futuristic appearance, size and usability, while achieving a good base price and history of reliability. We did notice some increased cabin noise coming from the continuously variable transmission, but this is common within the entire category, as the CVT is budget-friendly and popular with consumers.

2025 Nissan Kicks SR

MSRP: $26,180

MPG: 28 city/35 highway/31.7 as tested

As Tested: $30,705

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