The all-new Nissan Kicks offers better performance, more space, and enhanced technology. Is it the ultimate budget SUV for younger buyers?
The 2025 Nissan Kicks enters the UAE market as an affordable yet feature-packed compact SUV, aiming to attract younger drivers looking for a reliable, stylish, and technology-rich vehicle. Nissan has made significant changes to the second-generation Kicks, offering more power, better handling, and advanced safety features while still keeping it budget-friendly.
With competition heating up in the subcompact SUV segment, does the 2025 Kicks stand out against rivals like the Hyundai Kona, Kia Soul, and Chevrolet Trax? Let’s take a deep dive into what makes this car unique and whether it’s the right choice for UAE buyers.
A Bigger and More Stylish Design
Nissan has given the new Kicks a bolder and more expressive design, making it larger than its predecessor. It is now 71 mm longer, 41 mm wider, and 20 mm taller than the previous generation, resulting in more cabin space and increased cargo capacity.
From the front, the signature Nissan V-Motion grille is now larger and more pronounced, flanked by sleek LED headlights that give it a premium look. The sculpted side profile and floating roof design add a sporty appeal, while the redesigned rear bumper enhances its rugged crossover aesthetic.
For UAE drivers who love customization, Nissan offers a range of vibrant exterior colors, including dual-tone options for a more personalized touch.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency: More Power, More Grip
Under the hood, the 2025 Nissan Kicks gets a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, producing 141 horsepower and 189 Nm of torque. This is a noticeable upgrade from the previous model’s 122 hp and 154 Nm, providing better acceleration and overall driving confidence.
Power is delivered via a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), ensuring a smooth and fuel-efficient ride. Nissan claims that the FWD version achieves up to 7.5 L/100 km in combined fuel economy, while the AWD version slightly reduces efficiency to 7.8 L/100 km.
For the first time in the Kicks lineup, Nissan offers an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, making it more capable for adventurous drivers in the UAE who might encounter sand-covered or uneven roads. The “Intelligent AWD” system actively monitors traction and adjusts power distribution, helping to improve stability on slippery surfaces.
Additionally, the Snow Mode allows the Kicks to maintain power distribution to all four wheels at all speeds, which can be useful in situations where extra grip is needed.
A Well-Designed and Practical Interior
The cabin of the 2025 Nissan Kicks has been redesigned for a more premium and spacious feel. Nissan has used better-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces, to elevate the comfort level.
Key Interior Features:
Zero Gravity seats for improved posture and reduced fatigue
Larger 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system (higher trims)
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard
10-speaker Bose premium sound system with headrest-integrated speakers (optional)
Increased cargo space – 850 liters behind the second row, expandable to 1,700 liters with seats folded
One of the most impressive new features in the Kicks is its enhanced noise insulation, with thicker carpets and additional soundproofing materials to keep the cabin quiet, even at highway speeds.
However, a major downside is the touch-sensitive climate controls, which can be distracting while driving. Unlike the physical dials found in other Nissan models, drivers will need to take their eyes off the road to adjust the temperature settings.
Despite this minor drawback, the new Kicks offers a comfortable, tech-filled interior that’s perfect for daily commuting in UAE cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Smooth Ride and Balanced Handling
Despite its focus on affordability, the 2025 Nissan Kicks delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience, making it a solid choice for city commuting in the UAE.
Nissan has improved the chassis for better torsional stiffness, reducing body roll and improving handling, especially around sharp turns. The steering system feels more precise than the previous model, providing better control during urban driving and highway cruising.
However, while the extra horsepower is a welcome addition, the Kicks is not a performance SUV. Acceleration is moderate at best, with 0-100 km/h times averaging around 9.7 seconds in optimal conditions. In comparison, competitors like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30 offer more engaging performance.
The CVT transmission remains a point of contention. While it ensures smooth power delivery and fuel efficiency, it lacks the responsiveness of a traditional automatic gearbox. Nissan has, however, worked on refining the CVT software, making shifts feel less artificial and more natural under acceleration.
For everyday drivers in the UAE, especially those navigating Dubai’s traffic or long stretches of open highway, the Kicks provides a relaxed and fuel-efficient ride. The suspension absorbs road imperfections well, making it a comfortable option for commuting or family use.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Nissan has positioned the 2025 Kicks as a tech-forward and safety-focused compact SUV. It comes standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems.
Key Safety Features (Standard on All Trims):
Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
Lane Departure Warning
Blind-Spot Monitoring
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Rear Automatic Braking
Adaptive Cruise Control
For those who want more advanced safety tech, the ProPilot Assist system is available on higher trims. This includes lane-centering assist, intersection assist, and blind-spot intervention, making the Kicks one of the safest options in its class.
The addition of rear USB ports and an optional panoramic sunroof further enhance the passenger experience, particularly for families or those who frequently travel with passengers.
The 2025 Nissan Kicks stands out as a significant improvement over its predecessor. It delivers better performance, increased cabin space, advanced safety technology, and an optional all-wheel drive system, making it one of the most practical and affordable compact SUVs in the UAE market.
The starting price for the Kicks is AED 84,900, which places it in a competitive position within its segment. The higher trims with AWD and premium features push the price to AED 114,900, bringing it close to larger SUVs with stronger engines. However, for buyers focused on affordability, fuel efficiency, and advanced technology, the lower and mid-level trims remain an excellent choice.
The Kicks excels in daily urban driving, offering a smooth ride, spacious cargo area, and excellent fuel economy. Its modern infotainment system, premium audio options, and comfortable seating make it a solid option for young professionals, first-time SUV owners, and small families looking for a reliable vehicle in the UAE.
While performance-oriented drivers may find the acceleration underwhelming and the touch-sensitive climate controls could be more user-friendly, these drawbacks are minor when considering the overall value proposition.
For those looking for a well-equipped, fuel-efficient, and stylish compact SUV at an accessible price, the 2025 Nissan Kicks offers a compelling package. The addition of AWD in this segment makes it even more appealing for those needing extra stability on the road.
Yasir Al-Mansouri have more than 10 years of experience in the automotive journalism world. He is an expert of automotive news articles, features, and reviews on cars, from the latest models to industry trends. He've built strong relationships with car manufacturers and industry experts. Connect with Yasir Al-Mansouri on LinkedIn to stay updated on all things automotive and join our exciting journey in exploring the world of automobiles.
