Nissan kicks vs outlander sport: battle of the compact crossovers

When it comes to compact SUVs, the Nissan Kicks and Mitsubishi Outlander Sport are two top contenders that offer a blend of practicality, style, and affordability. To help you make an informed decision, we’ll delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Nissan Kicks vs Outlander Sport, exploring their key features, performance, and overall value.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

Engine and Power:

• Nissan Kicks: 1.6L 4-cylinder engine with 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque
• Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: 2.0L 4-cylinder engine with 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque

The Outlander Sport boasts a slight advantage in power, but the Kicks offers comparable torque.

Fuel Efficiency:

• Nissan Kicks: 31 mpg city / 36 mpg highway (FWD)
• Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: 24 mpg city / 30 mpg highway (FWD)

The Kicks significantly surpasses the Outlander Sport in fuel efficiency, making it a more economical choice for daily commuting.

Interior and Cargo Space

Passenger Space:

• Nissan Kicks: 91.5 cubic feet of passenger volume
• Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: 90.7 cubic feet of passenger volume

Both vehicles offer ample room for passengers, with the Kicks providing a marginally more spacious cabin.

Cargo Capacity:

• Nissan Kicks: 25.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats, 53.1 cubic feet with rear seats folded
• Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: 21.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, 49.5 cubic feet with rear seats folded

The Kicks offers a larger cargo area, making it more suitable for hauling luggage or bulky items.

Features and Technology

Standard Features:

• Nissan Kicks: Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth
• Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth

Both vehicles come standard with essential features, but the Kicks includes a larger touchscreen.

Available Features:

• Nissan Kicks: Bose sound system, sunroof, blind-spot monitoring
• Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: Rockford Fosgate sound system, panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control

The Outlander Sport offers a wider range of available features, including more advanced safety systems.

Safety and Reliability

Safety Ratings:

• Nissan Kicks: 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA
• Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA

The Kicks has a slightly higher safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Reliability:

• Nissan Kicks: Above-average reliability rating from J.D. Power
• Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: Average reliability rating from J.D. Power

The Kicks has a more favorable reliability rating, indicating a lower likelihood of repairs.

Price and Value

Starting Price:

• Nissan Kicks: $19,700
• Mitsubishi Outlander Sport: $20,995

The Kicks has a lower starting price, making it a more affordable option.

Value for Money:

Considering the overall package of features, performance, and reliability, the Kicks offers better value for money compared to the Outlander Sport.

Final Note: The Verdict

The Nissan Kicks and Mitsubishi Outlander Sport are both solid choices in the compact SUV segment. However, the Kicks emerges as the winner due to its superior fuel efficiency, larger cargo capacity, and higher safety rating. Its lower starting price and strong value proposition make it an excellent option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and reliable vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which vehicle has a more comfortable interior?

A: Both vehicles offer comfortable interiors, but the Kicks has a slightly more spacious cabin.

Q: Does the Outlander Sport have a better sound system?

A: The Rockford Fosgate sound system available in the Outlander Sport offers a more premium audio experience.

Q: Which vehicle has a higher ground clearance?

A: The Outlander Sport has a slightly higher ground clearance of 8.5 inches compared to the Kicks’ 7.8 inches.