Nissan kicks vs peugeot 208: which subcompact crossover reigns supreme?

The compact SUV segment is teeming with fierce competition, and two of the most notable contenders are the Nissan Kicks and the Peugeot 208. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of practicality, style, and performance, making them worthy of consideration for buyers seeking a versatile and capable urban companion. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the depths of these two SUVs, scrutinizing their key attributes to help you make an informed decision.

Design: A Matter of Taste

The Nissan Kicks exudes a bold and adventurous spirit with its sharp lines and aggressive stance. Its distinctive V-Motion grille and boomerang-shaped headlamps lend it a sporty and futuristic appearance. In contrast, the Peugeot 208 adopts a more refined and sophisticated design, characterized by its flowing curves and sleek silhouette. Its signature LED daytime running lights and sharp creases add a touch of elegance to its compact form.

Interior: Comfort and Convenience

Step inside the Nissan Kicks, and you’ll be greeted by a spacious and versatile cabin. The high seating position provides excellent visibility, while the supportive seats ensure comfort on long journeys. The dashboard is laid out intuitively, with a clear and concise instrument cluster and a user-friendly infotainment system. The Peugeot 208 offers a similarly comfortable interior, albeit with a more premium feel. The seats are bolstered and offer excellent lumbar support, and the dashboard boasts a stylish and modern design. The infotainment system is feature-rich and easy to use, providing a seamless connection to your smartphone.

Performance: Power and Efficiency

Under the hood of the Nissan Kicks lies a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that offers smooth and efficient gear changes. The Peugeot 208, on the other hand, comes with a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine that produces 100 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission or an optional eight-speed automatic transmission. In terms of performance, the Peugeot 208 feels more responsive and agile, thanks to its higher torque output and more engaging transmission.

Fuel Economy: Saving at the Pump

Fuel efficiency is a crucial consideration for many buyers in the compact SUV segment. The Nissan Kicks returns an impressive 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. The Peugeot 208 is slightly less fuel-efficient, with ratings of 29 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway with the manual transmission. However, the automatic transmission option improves fuel economy to 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.

Safety: Peace of Mind on the Road

Both the Nissan Kicks and the Peugeot 208 have earned high safety ratings from independent testing organizations. The Kicks has received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while the 208 has earned a five-star rating from Euro NCAP. Both vehicles come equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

Price and Value: Finding the Right Fit

The Nissan Kicks has a starting price of $20,290 for the base S trim, while the top-of-the-line SR trim starts at $23,390. The Peugeot 208 has a slightly higher starting price of $22,990 for the base Active trim, while the top-of-the-line GT trim starts at $27,990. When comparing these two vehicles in terms of value, it’s important to consider not only their price but also their features and capabilities.

The Verdict: A Tough Choice

Ultimately, the choice between the Nissan Kicks and the Peugeot 208 depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize bold styling, spaciousness, and fuel efficiency, the Kicks is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you value a more premium interior, responsive performance, and advanced safety features, the 208 may be a better fit. Both vehicles offer their own unique strengths and appeal, making them worthy contenders in the competitive compact SUV segment.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
The Peugeot 208 has a more powerful engine than the Nissan Kicks, with 100 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque compared to the Kicks’ 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque.

2. Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
The Nissan Kicks is more fuel-efficient than the Peugeot 208, with an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway compared to the 208’s 29 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway (with the manual transmission).

3. Which vehicle has a larger cargo capacity?
The Nissan Kicks has a larger cargo capacity than the Peugeot 208, with 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space compared to the 208’s 16 cubic feet.