Ultimate compact suv comparison: nissan kicks vs rogue sport – the features you need to know

The compact SUV segment is fiercely competitive, with automakers offering a wide range of options to meet diverse consumer needs. Among the most popular contenders in this segment are the Nissan Kicks and the Rogue Sport. Both vehicles boast impressive features and capabilities, but which one emerges as the superior choice? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Nissan Kicks and the Rogue Sport to help you make an informed decision.

Exterior Design

Nissan Kicks: The Kicks exudes a bold and edgy design, featuring sharp lines and a striking front fascia. Its compact dimensions (169.1 inches in length) make it nimble and easy to maneuver in urban environments.

Rogue Sport: The Rogue Sport presents a more traditional SUV silhouette, with a spacious interior and a more conservative exterior design. It measures 179.1 inches in length, offering ample room for passengers and cargo.

Interior Space and Comfort

Nissan Kicks: Despite its smaller size, the Kicks offers a surprisingly spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom for front and rear passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing a comfortable ride for long journeys.

Rogue Sport: The Rogue Sport’s larger dimensions translate into a more generous interior space. It offers ample seating for five adults, with plush seats and plenty of legroom. The cargo area is also larger, providing more space for luggage or bulky items.

Powertrain and Performance

Nissan Kicks: The Kicks is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This powertrain combination provides adequate acceleration and fuel efficiency.

Rogue Sport: The Rogue Sport offers two engine options: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 141 horsepower and 147 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a CVT. The Rogue Sport’s more powerful engine provides better acceleration and towing capacity.

Fuel Efficiency

Nissan Kicks: The Kicks is the more fuel-efficient option, with an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive models get slightly lower fuel economy at 29 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

Rogue Sport: The Rogue Sport’s fuel economy varies depending on the engine option. The 2.0-liter engine gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive, while the 2.5-liter engine gets 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. AWD models get slightly lower fuel economy.

Safety Features

Nissan Kicks: The Kicks comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. It also received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Rogue Sport: The Rogue Sport also offers a comprehensive range of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. It received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA as well.

Technology and Connectivity

Nissan Kicks: The Kicks features a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also offers a variety of connected services, including remote start and vehicle tracking.

Rogue Sport: The Rogue Sport comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It offers a wider range of connected services, including a Wi-Fi hotspot and a navigation system.

Pricing and Value

Nissan Kicks: The Kicks has a starting MSRP of $20,290 for the base S trim. The top-of-the-line SR trim starts at $23,090.

Rogue Sport: The Rogue Sport has a starting MSRP of $25,290 for the base S trim. The top-of-the-line SL trim starts at $32,190.

Which One is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between the Nissan Kicks and the Rogue Sport depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, a smaller size, and a lower price point, the Kicks is an excellent option. However, if you value a more spacious interior, more powerful engine options, and a wider range of safety and technology features, the Rogue Sport is a better choice.

Takeaways

Whether you seek agility and affordability in the Nissan Kicks or space, power, and advanced features in the Rogue Sport, both vehicles offer compelling attributes. Weighing these factors against your specific requirements will guide you towards the perfect compact SUV for your lifestyle.

Information You Need to Know

1. Which vehicle has a better warranty?
Both the Nissan Kicks and Rogue Sport come with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

2. Does the Nissan Kicks offer all-wheel drive?
Yes, all-wheel drive is available on the Nissan Kicks for an additional cost.

3. Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?
The Rogue Sport has a higher towing capacity than the Kicks. The Rogue Sport with the 2.5-liter engine can tow up to 2,000 pounds, while the Kicks can tow up to 1,500 pounds.

4. Does the Rogue Sport have a sunroof?
Yes, a sunroof is available as an option on the Rogue Sport.

5. Which vehicle has a better ground clearance?
The Nissan Kicks has a slightly better ground clearance than the Rogue Sport. The Kicks has a ground clearance of 6.8 inches, while the Rogue Sport has a ground clearance of 6.6 inches.