The 2025 Nissan Kicks enters the Nigerian conversation as a practical subcompact SUV with updated styling, expanded features, and better performance than its predecessors. With pricing starting around $21,830 (₦32,745,000), it targets budget-conscious buyers looking for fuel economy, safety, and tech features without spending overboard. It also competes with other compact SUVs discussed in the ultimate guide to maintaining your car’s resale value, showing Nissan’s commitment to keeping its models desirable.
Performance and Powertrain
The Kicks now uses a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine delivering 141 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission, available in front-wheel and all-wheel drive. Real-world efficiency stands at around 28 miles per gallon city and 35 on the highway for the front-wheel version, with slightly lower figures for all-wheel drive.
Acceleration is functional, especially for city driving. However, it’s not meant for speed. It hits 0–60 mph in approximately 10.5 seconds on base trims and around 9 seconds on the top SR AWD trim. Highway merging might feel slow due to the CVT’s response. This was a common theme among owners of older Kicks models, but the 2025 redesign appears to have softened the issue.
Interior Design and Cargo Space
Inside, the 2025 Kicks offers noticeable upgrades in materials and layout. It’s 3 inches longer and an inch wider than its predecessor, giving passengers more space—especially in shoulder and knee room. Cargo space for the front-wheel model stands at 30 cubic feet with seats up and 60 cubic feet with them folded. All-wheel variants sacrifice some space due to drivetrain packaging, offering 24 and 50 cubic feet, respectively.
While the base trim comes with a 7-inch screen, upper trims offer a 12.3-inch touchscreen, dual digital displays, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a 10-speaker Bose sound system. This tech upgrade is in line with features seen on better-ranked SUVs like the Honda HR-V and Toyota Corolla Cross, which you can read more about in The Toyota Corolla Cross: A Crossover With Character.
Safety Ratings and Technology
Safety is a core strength of the 2025 Kicks. It earned 5 stars from Latin NCAP and performed well with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Features like automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning are standard.
While the front crash test only rated 3/5 stars, side-impact protection received the full 5 stars. The difference may relate to structural redesign priorities, but overall, the car performs above average in its class.
CVT Reliability Concerns
One area that warrants attention is the CVT transmission. Historically, Nissan’s CVTs have been linked with premature wear and failure, especially in older Sentra and Altima models. On Reddit and forums, users regularly mention overheating and belt issues.
The 2025 Kicks reportedly uses an updated version of the transmission, shared with newer Sentra variants, which have improved reliability. Still, prospective buyers should ensure regular transmission fluid changes every 25,000 to 60,000 miles. You can find more on reliability pitfalls and how to avoid them in 5 Signs That a Nigerian Used Car Is Not for You.
Pricing Breakdown
The S trim starts at $21,830 (₦32,745,000), the SV trim at $23,680 (₦35,520,000), and the top-tier SR trim at $26,180 (₦39,270,000). All-wheel drive adds roughly $1,500–$1,650 (₦2,250,000–₦2,475,000), depending on the configuration. In Nigeria, conversion rates, import duties, and dealer markups can push these prices even higher.
Warranty support covers three years or 36,000 miles (basic) and five years or 60,000 miles (powertrain). Nissan also offers complimentary scheduled maintenance for 24,000 miles or 2 years.
Public Reception and Market Feedback
The 2025 Kicks is getting mixed reviews across online platforms. On Edmunds, it averages 3 out of 5 stars, mainly due to engine sound, limited power, and center console layout. Some users appreciate its comfort, technology, and practicality. On Reddit, owners highlight the lack of excitement in the drive but praise its affordability and AWD availability.
Market reception shows growing interest, particularly among younger drivers and those seeking fuel-efficient alternatives. The addition of all-wheel drive opens the door for buyers in rainy or rough-terrain regions, making it more competitive with rivals like the Kia Seltos and Subaru Crosstrek.
Comparison Table for 2025 Nissan Kicks (FWD vs AWD)
| Feature | Front-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| Horsepower | 141 hp | 141 hp |
| MPG | 28/35 | 27/34 |
| 0-60 mph | ~10.5 sec | ~9.0 sec (SR) |
| Cargo (Seats Up/Folded) | 30/60 cu ft | 24/50 cu ft |
| Price (USD) | Starts at $21,830 | Add $1,500–$1,650 |
Pros and Cons of the 2025 Nissan Kicks
Pros:
- Affordable base pricing compared to rivals
- Good fuel economy
- Strong safety package
- New AWD availability
- Improved interior space and tech options
Cons:
- Mixed opinions on CVT durability
- Sluggish highway performance
- Somewhat polarising design, especially front grille
Alternatives to Consider
Buyers looking at the Kicks should also evaluate vehicles like the Toyota Corolla Cross, Honda HR-V, and Subaru Crosstrek. If performance and resale value are a priority, these options may offer advantages.
You can explore more SUV options in our post on The Smallest SUV in Africa or read about market factors influencing compact SUV popularity in Devalued Naira Disrupting the Auto Market.
Urban Suitability and Nigerian Context
With Nigeria’s road conditions and fuel prices climbing, the Kicks’ fuel efficiency and improved ground clearance make it a suitable candidate for daily commutes. It’s especially useful in urban centres like Lagos, where space, efficiency, and safety are key. However, CVT repairs may be costly due to limited parts availability.
As noted in Nigerians’ Poor Car Maintenance Culture, failure to follow service schedules can shorten the lifespan of modern cars like the Kicks. Owners must ensure regular oil changes, brake checks, and transmission fluid inspections.
Conclusion: Is the 2025 Nissan Kicks Worth Buying?
If you’re looking for a reliable, city-friendly compact SUV with AWD capability and updated tech, the 2025 Kicks checks several boxes. It isn’t a high-performance vehicle, but it delivers value, comfort, and safety at an accessible price point. Prospective owners should budget for long-term CVT maintenance and choose trims with features they truly need.
Whether you’re considering buying your first SUV or replacing an older model, this car deserves a look. Read more on model alternatives and ownership tips in Essential Documents for Car Owners in Nigeria.
