The Nissan Kicks is a compact SUV that was launched in the Japanese market on June 30, 2020. Its appeal lies in its stylish design and smooth acceleration thanks to its e-POWER system. However, sales have been sluggish, with some even calling it “terrible.” In this article, we thoroughly analyze the reasons for the Kicks’ poor sales and highlight its appeal and challenges through comparisons with competing models.
Is the new Kicks going to be terrible?
A thorough explanation of Kicks’ reviews and ratings
As of June 2024, when searching for the Nissan Kicks, many searches result in “Why the Nissan Kicks isn’t selling” and “The Nissan Kicks is terrible.” The Kicks’ reputation has been mixed in various places, including social media, automotive media, and review sites.
5 reasons why Kicks aren’t selling
Opinions about the Kicks are divided among users. While some praise the quiet and powerful acceleration provided by e-POWER and the extensive range of advanced safety features, many also point out the limited rear seat and luggage space, the high price, and the divided design.
In particular, the cramped rear seats are a major drawback for families and those who frequently drive long distances. Many also feel that the price is a bit high compared to competing models.
There are several possible reasons for the Kicks’ poor sales.
- Design preferences are divided: The Kicks’ design is sharp and urban, but it’s not for everyone. In particular, some people say they don’t like the design of the front mask.
- Intensely competitive compact SUV market: The compact SUV market is crowded with popular models such as the Toyota Yaris Cross and Honda Vezel. The Kicks may not be able to differentiate itself from these competitors in terms of design or functionality.
- The balance between fuel economy and performance is poor: The Kicks is equipped with a unique hybrid system called e-POWER, but its fuel economy is inferior to that of competing models. While the powerful acceleration that comes with motor drive is appealing, some people complain that the engine noise at high speeds is annoying.
- Lack of price competitiveness: The price of the Kicks is set a little higher than its competitors. Some people may feel that it is too expensive, especially considering the quality of the interior and the equipment included.
- Impact of the 2022 minor change: In July 2022, e-POWER evolved into its second generation, improving quietness and fuel efficiency. However, this minor change does not appear to have had a significant impact on sales.
The difference between the Kicks and its competitors becomes clear when compared
The Kicks is priced higher for a compact SUV. In particular, the e-POWER model is even more expensive than the gasoline model. The price difference is significant compared to its competitors, the Toyota Yaris Cross and the Honda Vezel. This price difference is thought to be one of the factors holding down the Kicks’ sales.
The Kicks’ competitors are the Toyota Yaris Cross and the Honda Vezel. Compared to these models, the Kicks is inferior in the following respects:
Nissan Kicks
- Fuel economy: The hybrid models of the Yaris Cross and Vezel have very high fuel economy, far exceeding that of the Kicks.
- No 4WD model : The Kicks does not have a 4WD model. In some areas, 4WD is required, so it may not be an option.
- Rear seat space: The Vezel has ample legroom in the rear seats and is very comfortable. The Kicks has narrow rear seats and cannot recline, making it unsuitable for long rides.
- Luggage space: The Vezel has a large luggage space and can carry a lot of luggage. The Kicks has a small luggage space and is less practical.
Understanding Kicks’ position by comparing it with competing models
Competitors of the Kicks include the Toyota Yaris Cross and Honda Vezel. Compared to these models, the Kicks has the following features:
| Specifications | Kicks | Yaris Cross | Vezel |
|---|---|---|---|
| engine | 1.2L + motor e-POWER |
1.5L gasoline/ hybrid |
1.5L gasoline/ e:HEV |
| Drive system | 2WD | 2WD/4WD | 2WD/4WD |
| price | 3,083,300 yen to 3,520,000 yen |
1,907,000 yen to 3,156,000 yen |
2,648,800 yen to 3,776,300 yen |
| WLTC mode fuel economy | 23.0km/L | 20.2km/L to 30.8km/L |
15.6km/L to 24.8km/L |
| Rear seat space | narrow | usually | wide |
| Loadspace | narrow | usually | wide |
Compared to the Yaris Cross and Vezel, the Kicks has noticeably smaller rear seat space and luggage space. It also has a higher price tag. On the other hand, its smooth acceleration thanks to e-POWER and comprehensive range of advanced safety features are comparable to its competitors.
Comparison with Toyota Yaris Cross
Toyota Yaris Cross
The Yaris Cross is cheaper than the Kicks and has better fuel economy. It also comes in a 4WD model, making it a great choice for those who enjoy snowy regions and outdoor leisure activities.
Comparison with Honda Vezel
VEZEL
The Vezel has more interior space than the Kicks, with more room in the backseat and luggage space. Its hybrid system, e:HEV, also boasts better fuel economy than the Kicks’ e-POWER.
The price seems high because there are no gasoline vehicles in the lineup.
Other companies have gasoline-powered vehicles in their lineup, which allows them to set the entry-level model price very low. However, in the case of the Kicks, the lineup only includes e-POWER-equipped vehicles, which many people may find to be expensive.
| grade | Engine (motor) |
Drive system |
Price (10%) |
New price (10%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| X | HR12DE (EM57) |
2WD | 2,998,600 yen | 3,083,300 yen |
| X FOUR | HR12DE (EM57) (MM48) |
4WD | 3,261,500 yen | 3,346,200 yen |
| X Two-Tone Interior Edition |
HR12DE (EM57) |
2WD | 3,108,600 yen | 3,218,600 yen |
| X FOUR Two-Tone Interior Edition |
HR12DE (EM57) (MM48) |
4WD | 3,371,500 yen | 3,481,500 yen |
| Special edition 90th anniversary car |
HR12DE (EM57) |
2WD | -circle | 3,257,100 yen |
| Special edition 90th anniversary car |
HR12DE (EM57) (MM48) |
4WD | -circle | 3,520,000 yen |
Dissatisfaction points based on usability and user reviews
Looking at user reviews, many users complain about the small rear seat and luggage space of the Kicks. This is a major drawback, especially for families and those who enjoy outdoor leisure activities. Some users also complain about the stiffness of the ride and the amount of road noise.
Although the Kicks is equipped with e-POWER, some say that its fuel economy is inferior to that of competing models. Some say that its fuel economy on the highway is not much different from that of gasoline-powered vehicles.
https://twitter.com/_ma_draft/status/1792223400284549275
Reviews about breakdown frequency and repair service
There is no clear data on the frequency of breakdowns in the Kicks, but some users have reported electrical problems and engine malfunctions.
What is the appeal of Kicks?
- Stylish design: Kicks’ design is urban and sophisticated, making it especially popular among young people and women.
- Motor-driven acceleration: e-POWER is characterized by the powerful acceleration that only a motor-driven vehicle can provide. Acceleration when starting or driving around town is extremely smooth and enjoyable.
- Enhanced safety features: The Kicks is equipped with the latest safety driving support system, ProPilot, which supports driving on highways, making long-distance driving more comfortable.
e-POWER features and evaluation
nissan_e-power
The Kicks’ e-POWER system uses the engine only to generate electricity and is driven by a motor. This allows for smooth, powerful acceleration and exceptional quietness. It also comes equipped with a one-pedal drive function, which allows you to control acceleration and deceleration just by operating the accelerator pedal, making driving easier.
Actual fuel economy performance and comparison
The Kicks’ fuel economy is 23.0km/L in WLTC mode, but actual fuel economy varies greatly depending on driving conditions and road conditions. Generally, the figure is lower than the catalog fuel economy figure, but it can still be said to have excellent fuel economy.
| Specifications | New Kicks e-POWER 2WD |
New Kicks e-POWER 4WD |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 4,290mm | 4,290mm |
| Overall width | 1,760mm | 1,760mm |
| Overall height | 1,605mm | 1,605mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,620mm | 2,620mm |
| engine | In-line 3-cylinder 1.2L engine “HR12DE” type + motor “EM47” type |
In-line 3-cylinder 1.2L engine “HR12DE” type + motor “EM47” type + motor “MM48” type |
| Maximum power | 60kW (82PS) / 6,000rpm |
60kW (82PS) / 6,000rpm |
| Maximum torque | 103Nm (10.5kgm) / 4,800rpm |
103Nm (10.5kgm) / 4,800rpm |
| Motor maximum output |
100kW (136PS) / 3,410-9,697pm |
100kW (136PS) / 3,410-9,697pm |
| Motor Max Torque |
280Nm (28.5kgm) / 0-3,410rpm |
280Nm (28.6kgfm) / 0-3,410rpm |
| Rear motor maximum output |
– | 50kW (68PS) / 4,775-10,259rpm |
| Rear motor maximum torque |
– | 100Nm (10.2kgm) / 0-4,775rpm |
| battery | Lithium-ion battery |
Lithium-ion battery |
| Drive system | 2WD | 4WD |
| Passenger capacity | 5 people | 5 people |
| WLTC mode fuel economy |
23.0km/L | 19.2km/L |
Interior design and two-tone interior edition review
The interior of the Kicks is characterized by a simple yet high-quality design. The two-tone interior edition allows you to choose a more unique interior that incorporates accent colors such as orange and blue.
Reputation of advanced driver assistance systems
The Kicks is equipped with the latest safety driving support system, “ProPilot.” ProPilot is a function that supports driving on highways, automatically controlling the accelerator, brakes, and steering. It also comes equipped with various safety features such as collision mitigation braking and lane departure warning, and has received high praise.
New Kicks: Current domestic production volume in Japan
| year and month | Sales volume |
|---|---|
| January 2024 | 1,314 units |
| February 2024 | 1,648 units |
| March 2024 | 1,972 units |
| April 2024 | 1,019 units |
| May 2024 | 949 units |
Kicks registration numbers Source: Japan Automobile Dealers Association
summary
The Kicks has some attractive features, such as its stylish design and the acceleration that only a motor-driven vehicle can provide, but its poor fuel economy and practicality compared to competing models are thought to be the reason for its poor sales.
When considering a purchase, it’s important to take this information into consideration and experience the appeal of the Kicks for yourself through a test drive or consultation at a dealer to determine whether it meets your needs.
