Nissan kicks vs suzuki vitara: which subcompact crossover reigns supreme?
What To Know
- The Vitara, on the other hand, has a more rugged and traditional SUV look, with a boxy shape and a pronounced grille.
- In terms of fuel economy, the Kicks has a slight advantage, with EPA-estimated ratings of 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
- In terms of value for money, the Kicks offers a slightly better deal, as it comes with a more spacious interior, more standard features, and better fuel economy.
The compact SUV segment has become increasingly competitive, with automakers offering a wide range of options. Two of the most popular models in this category are the Nissan Kicks and the Suzuki Vitara. Both vehicles offer a blend of style, practicality, and performance, but which one is the better choice? In this comprehensive comparison, we will pit the Nissan Kicks against the Suzuki Vitara to determine which SUV reigns supreme.
Exterior Design
The Nissan Kicks and Suzuki Vitara have distinct exterior designs that reflect their respective brands‘ identities. The Kicks features a bold and sporty appearance, with sharp lines and a floating roof design. The Vitara, on the other hand, has a more rugged and traditional SUV look, with a boxy shape and a pronounced grille. Both vehicles offer a range of color options and customization features, allowing you to personalize your ride.
Interior Space and Comfort
When it comes to interior space, the Nissan Kicks has a slight edge over the Suzuki Vitara. The Kicks offers a more spacious cabin, with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The Vitara’s interior is also comfortable, but it feels a bit more cramped, especially in the rear seats. Both vehicles provide a comfortable seating position, with supportive seats and adjustable steering wheels.
Features and Technology
The Nissan Kicks and Suzuki Vitara come with a range of standard and optional features that enhance comfort and convenience. The Kicks features a user-friendly infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium Bose sound system. The Vitara also offers a comprehensive infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, navigation, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. In terms of safety features, both vehicles come with a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
Performance and Fuel Economy
Under the hood, the Nissan Kicks is powered by a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that produces 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. The Suzuki Vitara has a more powerful 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 140 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. In terms of fuel economy, the Kicks has a slight advantage, with EPA-estimated ratings of 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. The Vitara’s fuel economy ratings are 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
Handling and Off-Roading Capabilities
Both the Nissan Kicks and Suzuki Vitara offer a balanced and responsive handling experience. The Kicks has a slightly softer suspension, which provides a comfortable ride, while the Vitara’s firmer suspension gives it better handling and stability around corners. While neither vehicle is a dedicated off-roader, the Vitara has a slight advantage in this area, thanks to its higher ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive.
Pricing and Value
The Nissan Kicks has a starting price of $20,290, while the Suzuki Vitara starts at $21,990. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels and options, so the final price will vary depending on your specific configuration. In terms of value for money, the Kicks offers a slightly better deal, as it comes with a more spacious interior, more standard features, and better fuel economy.
Which SUV is Right for You?
The Nissan Kicks and Suzuki Vitara are both excellent choices in the compact SUV segment. The Kicks offers a more spacious interior, better fuel economy, and a lower starting price. The Vitara, on the other hand, has a more powerful engine, better handling, and standard all-wheel drive. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize interior space, fuel efficiency, and value, the Nissan Kicks is the better choice. If you prefer a more powerful engine, better handling, and off-roading capabilities, the Suzuki Vitara is the better option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which SUV has a better safety rating?
A: Both the Nissan Kicks and Suzuki Vitara have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Q: Which SUV has a more comfortable ride?
A: The Nissan Kicks has a slightly softer suspension, which provides a more comfortable ride, especially on rough roads.
Q: Which SUV has better off-roading capabilities?
A: The Suzuki Vitara has a higher ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive, making it better equipped for off-road adventures.
Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: The Suzuki Vitara has a more powerful 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which produces 140 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque.
Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Nissan Kicks has better fuel economy ratings than the Suzuki Vitara, with EPA-estimated ratings of 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.