Nissan kicks vs suzuki s cross: the crossover debate heats up – discover the winner
What To Know
- The S-Cross also received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a “Good” rating in most IIHS crash tests, except for the headlights, which received an “Acceptable” rating.
- The Suzuki S-Cross, on the other hand, has a starting price of $23,990 for the base S trim, and the fully loaded Limited trim starts at $29,990.
- While the Kicks offers a more affordable entry point, the S-Cross provides a higher level of features and performance for a slightly higher price.
In the highly competitive market of compact SUVs, the Nissan Kicks and Suzuki S-Cross stand out as two popular choices. Both offer a blend of style, practicality, and affordability, making them appealing to a wide range of buyers. However, understanding their key differences is crucial for making an informed decision.
Exterior Design: Bold vs Subtle
The Nissan Kicks exudes a bold and distinctive exterior with its sharp lines and angular bodywork. Its boomerang-shaped headlights and floating roof design give it a sporty and modern appeal. In contrast, the Suzuki S-Cross adopts a more subtle and conventional approach. Its curvy lines and traditional SUV stance provide a timeless and understated look.
Interior Space and Comfort: Roomy vs Cozy
When it comes to interior space, the Nissan Kicks offers a surprisingly roomy cabin for its compact size. It features ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The Suzuki S-Cross, while slightly smaller, still provides comfortable seating for up to five adults. However, the Kicks’ wider cabin and larger cargo area give it an edge in terms of overall spaciousness.
Features and Technology: Connected vs Practical
The Nissan Kicks comes equipped with an impressive array of features, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also offers advanced safety features like lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Suzuki S-Cross, while not as feature-rich, provides essential amenities such as a 7-inch touchscreen display, navigation, and rear parking sensors. Its focus on practicality and value for money is evident in its well-thought-out storage spaces and user-friendly controls.
Powertrain and Performance: Agile vs Efficient
Under the hood, the Nissan Kicks is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. It comes paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Suzuki S-Cross offers two engine options: a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine with 140 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine with 120 horsepower and 111 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. While the Kicks provides adequate power for daily driving, the S-Cross’s more powerful engine gives it an edge in acceleration and overall performance.
Fuel Efficiency: Economy vs Performance
Fuel efficiency is a key consideration for many SUV buyers. The Nissan Kicks delivers an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. The Suzuki S-Cross with the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine achieves 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, while the 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine offers 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The Kicks’ superior fuel economy makes it a more economical choice for those who prioritize efficiency.
Safety and Reliability: Confidence vs Reputation
Both the Nissan Kicks and Suzuki S-Cross have received high safety 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 “Good” rating in all crash tests conducted by IIHS. The S-Cross also received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a “Good” rating in most IIHS crash tests, except for the headlights, which received an “Acceptable” rating. When it comes to reliability, both vehicles have a solid track record, but the S-Cross has a slight edge based on J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study.
Price and Value: Affordability vs Features
The Nissan Kicks has a starting price of $19,990 for the base S trim, while the top-of-the-line SR trim starts at $24,690. The Suzuki S-Cross, on the other hand, has a starting price of $23,990 for the base S trim, and the fully loaded Limited trim starts at $29,990. While the Kicks offers a more affordable entry point, the S-Cross provides a higher level of features and performance for a slightly higher price.
The Bottom Line: A Choice of Style and Substance
Choosing between the Nissan Kicks and Suzuki S-Cross ultimately depends on individual preferences and priorities. The Kicks appeals to buyers who value bold styling, spaciousness, and fuel efficiency. The S-Cross, on the other hand, offers a more conventional design, a more powerful engine, and a reputation for reliability. Both vehicles provide a compelling combination of practicality, affordability, and features, making them excellent choices in the compact SUV segment.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which vehicle has a larger cargo area?
A: The Nissan Kicks offers a larger cargo area than the Suzuki S-Cross.
Q: Which vehicle offers more advanced safety features?
A: The Nissan Kicks comes with a wider range of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
Q: Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Nissan Kicks offers better fuel economy than the Suzuki S-Cross, with an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which vehicle has a higher starting price?
A: The Suzuki S-Cross has a higher starting price than the Nissan Kicks.
Q: Which vehicle is more reliable?
A: The Suzuki S-Cross has a slight edge in terms of reliability, according to J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study.