Suv showdown: nissan kicks vs crosstrek – which compact crossover dominates?
What To Know
- If you’re in the market for a compact SUV, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each model to make an informed decision.
- In terms of safety, both the Kicks and Crosstrek have received high ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- In terms of value, the Nissan Kicks offers a more affordable entry point, while the Subaru Crosstrek provides more standard features and off-road capabilities.
The Nissan Kicks and Subaru Crosstrek are two popular compact SUVs that offer a blend of versatility, style, and affordability. If you’re in the market for a compact SUV, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each model to make an informed decision. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of the Nissan Kicks vs Crosstrek, helping you determine which one best aligns with your needs.
Performance and Fuel Economy
Under the hood, the Nissan Kicks features a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. The Crosstrek, on the other hand, offers a choice of two engines: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, or a more powerful 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of fuel economy, the Kicks has a slight edge over the Crosstrek. The Kicks returns an EPA-estimated 31 mpg city / 36 mpg highway with front-wheel drive and 30 mpg city / 32 mpg highway with all-wheel drive. The Crosstrek, with its 2.0-liter engine, gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city / 33 mpg highway with front-wheel drive and 27 mpg city / 34 mpg highway with all-wheel drive. The Crosstrek with the 2.5-liter engine has slightly lower fuel economy ratings.
Interior Space and Comfort
When it comes to interior space, the Nissan Kicks and Subaru Crosstrek are comparable. Both offer ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers. The Kicks has a slightly smaller cargo capacity than the Crosstrek, with 25.3 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats compared to 25.5 cubic feet in the Crosstrek.
In terms of comfort, the Kicks and Crosstrek both offer supportive seats and a comfortable ride. The Kicks has a slightly firmer suspension, while the Crosstrek offers a softer ride. Both models feature a variety of standard and available comfort features, such as heated seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a sunroof.
Technology and Safety Features
The Nissan Kicks and Subaru Crosstrek come well-equipped with a range of technology and safety features. The Kicks features a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Crosstrek offers a larger 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with the same smartphone integration features.
In terms of safety, both the Kicks and Crosstrek have received high ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Kicks earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS. The Crosstrek also earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS.
Off-Road Capabilities
If you’re planning on venturing off-road, the Subaru Crosstrek has the edge over the Nissan Kicks. The Crosstrek features a standard all-wheel drive system with X-Mode, which provides enhanced traction and stability on rough terrain. The Kicks, on the other hand, is only available with front-wheel drive or an optional all-wheel drive system without any off-road-specific features.
Pricing and Value
The Nissan Kicks has a starting price of $20,290, while the Subaru Crosstrek starts at $23,545. Both models offer a range of trim levels and options, so the final price will vary depending on the features you choose.
In terms of value, the Nissan Kicks offers a more affordable entry point, while the Subaru Crosstrek provides more standard features and off-road capabilities. Ultimately, the best value for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Which One Is Right for You?
The Nissan Kicks and Subaru Crosstrek are both excellent compact SUVs with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Kicks is a more affordable option with good fuel economy and a spacious interior. The Crosstrek, on the other hand, offers more standard features, better off-road capabilities, and a slightly more powerful engine.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly compact SUV with good fuel economy, the Nissan Kicks is a great choice. If you’re looking for a more feature-rich SUV with better off-road capabilities, the Subaru Crosstrek is the better option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which model has a more powerful engine?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek with the 2.5-liter engine has a more powerful engine than the Nissan Kicks.
Q: Which model has a larger cargo capacity?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek has a slightly larger cargo capacity than the Nissan Kicks.
Q: Which model has a better safety rating?
A: Both the Nissan Kicks and Subaru Crosstrek have received high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.
Q: Which model is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Nissan Kicks has slightly better fuel economy ratings than the Subaru Crosstrek.
Q: Which model is more affordable?
A: The Nissan Kicks has a lower starting price than the Subaru Crosstrek.