Hey everyone, are you guys thinking about getting a 2019 Nissan Kicks? Awesome! It's a popular subcompact SUV, so it's a great choice if you're looking for something that's easy to drive, fuel-efficient, and packed with modern features. But, is the 2019 Nissan Kicks a good car for you? Let's dive in and find out if it's the right fit for your needs and lifestyle. We'll look at everything from its performance and features to its reliability and value. By the end of this, you'll have a clear picture of whether or not the 2019 Kicks deserves a spot in your driveway, and you'll be well-equipped to make a decision that you won't regret!

Performance and Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about what makes the 2019 Nissan Kicks tick under the hood. The Kicks is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, which delivers around 122 horsepower. Now, that might not sound like a lot, but it's important to remember that the Kicks is a subcompact SUV. That means it's pretty lightweight, so this engine provides enough pep for city driving and everyday commutes. If you're planning on doing a lot of highway driving or hauling heavy loads, you might find the acceleration a bit sluggish. However, for most drivers, especially those who primarily navigate urban environments, the Kicks offers a perfectly adequate driving experience. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to maximize fuel efficiency. CVTs are known for providing smooth power delivery, and the Kicks is no exception. It offers a seamless driving experience, with no abrupt gear changes, which can be a real plus in stop-and-go traffic. The Kicks shines when it comes to fuel economy. It boasts impressive gas mileage, making it a budget-friendly option for those who are conscious of their fuel consumption. You can expect to get around 31 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway. This is a significant advantage, especially with fluctuating gas prices. The Kicks handles well in urban settings, where its compact size makes it easy to maneuver through tight streets and park in crowded areas. The steering is light, which makes it simple to control, and the suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, even on less-than-perfect road surfaces. While the Kicks isn't designed for off-roading or high-performance driving, it offers a practical and enjoyable driving experience for daily use.

The Kicks offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, which is perfect for city driving and parking. The CVT provides smooth and seamless acceleration, contributing to a relaxed driving experience. It's a car that's easy to live with day after day.

Now, let's talk about some of the trade-offs. The 2019 Nissan Kicks is not the quickest car off the line. If you're looking for a vehicle with thrilling acceleration, the Kicks might not be the best choice. Passing on the highway requires some planning, as the engine can feel a bit underpowered at higher speeds. Also, the Kicks doesn't offer all-wheel drive, so if you live in an area with harsh winters or frequently encounter slippery road conditions, you might want to consider a vehicle with all-wheel drive capabilities. Despite these minor drawbacks, the 2019 Nissan Kicks remains a strong contender in the subcompact SUV segment, particularly for those prioritizing fuel efficiency, city-friendly maneuverability, and a comfortable ride.

Interior and Features

Let's move inside the 2019 Nissan Kicks and see what it has to offer. The interior is surprisingly spacious for a subcompact SUV. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and there's ample headroom and legroom for the driver and front passenger. The rear seats offer decent space as well, though taller passengers might find legroom a bit tight on longer journeys. The Kicks is well-suited for city driving and short commutes, easily accommodating a small family or a group of friends.

One of the standout features of the Kicks is its infotainment system. The base models come with a 7-inch touchscreen display, while higher trims get an upgraded 7-inch display with additional features. The system is user-friendly and intuitive, with easy-to-navigate menus and quick response times. It supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone for navigation, music streaming, and other apps. The Kicks also offers a range of standard and available features, including a rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These safety features are a real asset, providing added peace of mind on the road. Higher trims may also include features like heated front seats, a premium sound system, and a surround-view monitor, enhancing the overall driving experience. In terms of design and materials, the interior of the Kicks is functional and stylish. The dashboard and door panels are made of hard plastic, but the overall design is modern and appealing. The use of contrasting colors and textures adds visual interest, and the seats are upholstered in durable cloth or available premium materials. The Kicks' interior might not have the luxurious feel of some higher-end SUVs, but it offers a comfortable and practical space that's well-suited for daily use. The emphasis is on functionality, with well-placed controls and ample storage compartments. The cargo area is reasonably sized, with enough space for groceries, luggage, and other everyday items. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space when needed.

Now let's talk about some specific details. The base model, the S trim, comes with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and automatic emergency braking. Moving up to the SV trim adds features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The top-of-the-line SR trim includes a surround-view monitor, LED headlights, and a sporty exterior appearance package. The Kicks' interior provides a good balance of comfort, convenience, and technology, making it a well-equipped subcompact SUV.

Reliability and Safety

Okay, let's get into the nitty-gritty of reliability and safety for the 2019 Nissan Kicks. When it comes to reliability, the Kicks generally fares well, though it's always good to consider various sources of information. Consumer Reports and J.D. Power often provide reliability ratings based on owner surveys and historical data. You'll want to check these sources for the most up-to-date information, but overall, the Kicks tends to score relatively well in terms of reliability compared to its competitors. Nissan, in general, has a mixed reputation in terms of reliability, but the Kicks often receives above-average ratings, which is a good sign for potential buyers.

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring that your Kicks stays in top condition and remains reliable over time. Follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule, which includes routine tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections. Taking care of these maintenance items can prevent major problems down the road and extend the life of your vehicle.

On the safety front, the 2019 Nissan Kicks has performed well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The NHTSA awarded the Kicks with a five-star overall safety rating, which is the highest possible score. The IIHS gave the Kicks good ratings in most of its crash tests, with some variations depending on the specific test. These ratings indicate that the Kicks provides a good level of protection in the event of a collision.

The 2019 Nissan Kicks comes standard with several important safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and a rearview camera. These features can help to prevent accidents or mitigate the severity of a collision. Higher trim levels may also include additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, further enhancing safety.

When buying a used Kicks, it's always a good idea to check the vehicle's history report. This report will provide information about any accidents, repairs, or recalls the vehicle may have had. A clean history report can give you added confidence in your purchase. Another factor to consider is the warranty. The 2019 Nissan Kicks came with a basic warranty that covered the vehicle for a certain period of time or mileage, and the powertrain warranty covered the engine and transmission for a longer duration. If you're buying a used Kicks, check whether any of the original warranty remains in effect, and consider purchasing an extended warranty for added peace of mind.

Value and Pricing

Alright, let's talk about the value and pricing of the 2019 Nissan Kicks. When it comes to its price point, the Kicks is known for being a very affordable option in the subcompact SUV segment. This is a major advantage for budget-conscious buyers who want a new or newer vehicle without breaking the bank. The exact price will vary depending on the trim level, condition, and any additional features. However, the Kicks typically offers a competitive price compared to its rivals. This makes it an attractive choice for those looking for a lot of features and value for their money.

The Kicks offers a lot of features for its price. Even the base model comes well-equipped with standard features like a touchscreen display, automatic emergency braking, and a rearview camera. As you move up the trim levels, you'll find even more features, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view monitor. These features are often found in higher-priced vehicles, so the Kicks provides a great value proposition for those seeking a well-equipped car without paying a premium.

When it comes to the long-term cost of ownership, the Kicks is known for being relatively inexpensive to maintain. It has good fuel economy, which helps to keep fuel costs down. The car's components are generally reliable. It doesn't typically require a lot of expensive repairs. The Kicks' depreciation rate is also something to consider. Depreciation refers to the rate at which a car loses value over time. Subcompact SUVs, in general, tend to depreciate at a moderate rate, and the Kicks is no exception. This means that if you decide to sell or trade in your Kicks in the future, you should still be able to get a reasonable amount of your initial investment back.

When comparing the Kicks to its competitors, it's worth noting that it often offers a better value proposition. While other subcompact SUVs may have similar features or performance, they might come with a higher price tag. The Kicks is a standout because it offers a great combination of features, fuel efficiency, and affordability, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a cost-effective vehicle. Before making a decision, it's always a good idea to do some comparison shopping and see what other vehicles in the segment offer. But, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a lot to offer, the 2019 Nissan Kicks is definitely worth considering.

Pros and Cons

Before you make up your mind, let's sum up the 2019 Nissan Kicks with a quick overview of its pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

Pros:

• Fuel Efficiency: One of the best fuel economies in its class, saving you money on gas.
• Affordability: The 2019 Kicks is a very affordable option within the subcompact SUV segment, making it a great value for the features it offers.
• Modern Features: Comes with a range of standard technology and safety features, like a touchscreen and automatic emergency braking, even on base models.
• Maneuverability: Its compact size makes it perfect for city driving and easy parking.
• Stylish Design: Features a modern and eye-catching exterior design.

Cons:

• Engine Power: The 1.6-liter engine can feel underpowered, particularly during highway driving or when carrying a full load.
• No AWD Option: Doesn't offer all-wheel drive, which might be a drawback for those living in areas with harsh weather conditions.
• Interior Materials: While functional, the interior materials are mostly hard plastics, which may not appeal to those seeking a premium feel.
• Rear Passenger Space: Rear passenger space can be tight for taller adults on longer journeys.

Conclusion

So, is the 2019 Nissan Kicks a good car? The answer depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you're looking for an affordable, fuel-efficient, and feature-packed subcompact SUV that's perfect for city driving, the Kicks is an excellent choice. It offers a comfortable ride, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a good level of safety features. However, if you prioritize power, all-wheel drive, or a more luxurious interior, you might want to consider other options in the same class. Ultimately, the 2019 Nissan Kicks is a practical and reliable vehicle that offers excellent value for its price. Before making your final decision, take it for a test drive and see if it's the right fit for you. Good luck with your car hunt!