Clash of the suvs: honda cr-v vs nissan kicks – which reigns supreme?

In the competitive world of compact SUVs, the Honda CR-V and the Nissan Kicks stand out as formidable contenders. Both offer a compelling blend of practicality, efficiency, and value. However, discerning buyers face a dilemma: which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison delves into every aspect of these two vehicles, helping you make an informed decision.

Performance and Fuel Economy

Honda CR-V: The CR-V boasts a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that delivers smooth and responsive acceleration. The CR-V achieves an impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

Nissan Kicks: The Kicks comes equipped with a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine that generates 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to a CVT as well. Despite its lower power output, the Kicks offers a slightly better fuel economy rating of 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.

Interior and Features

Honda CR-V: The CR-V’s cabin is spacious and well-appointed, with comfortable seating for five. It features a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen interface, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. Standard features include dual-zone climate control, a sunroof, and a power tailgate.

Nissan Kicks: The Kicks’ interior is smaller but still offers ample space for passengers and cargo. The infotainment system is less advanced than the CR-V’s, but it still includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Notable features include a Bose audio system, a 360-degree camera, and a motion-activated tailgate.

Safety and Reliability

Honda CR-V: The CR-V has earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.

Nissan Kicks: The Kicks has also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, but only a 4-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Its standard safety features include lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring.

Cargo and Towing Capacity

Honda CR-V: The CR-V offers a generous 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row of seats. With the rear seats folded down, that expands to 75.8 cubic feet. It has a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds.

Nissan Kicks: The Kicks has a smaller cargo area, with 25.3 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 53.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down. Its towing capacity is 1,500 pounds as well.

Price and Value

Honda CR-V: The CR-V’s base LX trim starts at $26,800. The top-of-the-line Touring trim costs $36,650.

Nissan Kicks: The Kicks has a lower starting price of $20,290 for the S trim. The top-of-the-line SR trim retails for $24,600.

Which One is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between the Honda CR-V and the Nissan Kicks depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you value performance, interior space, and advanced safety features, the CR-V is the better choice. If you’re looking for a more affordable, fuel-efficient option with a smaller footprint, the Kicks might be a better fit.

Wrap-Up: The Verdict

The Honda CR-V and the Nissan Kicks both offer compelling packages in the compact SUV segment. However, the CR-V’s superior performance, spacious interior, and comprehensive safety features make it the more well-rounded and desirable choice for most buyers. Its higher price point is justified by its overall value and capabilities.

Popular Questions

Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Honda CR-V has a more powerful engine with 190 horsepower compared to the Nissan Kicks‘ 122 horsepower.

Q: Which vehicle offers the best fuel economy?
A: The Nissan Kicks has a slightly better fuel economy rating of 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway compared to the CR-V’s 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which vehicle has the larger cargo capacity?
A: The Honda CR-V has a larger cargo capacity of 39.2 cubic feet behind the second row of seats and 75.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

Q: Which vehicle has a higher safety rating?
A: Both the Honda CR-V and the Nissan Kicks have received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. However, the CR-V has a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, while the Kicks has a 4-star rating.

Q: Which vehicle is more affordable?
A: The Nissan Kicks has a lower starting price than the Honda CR-V. The Kicks S trim starts at $20,290, while the CR-V LX trim starts at $26,800.