The Nissan Kicks (P15), specifically the facelifted version introduced in February 2021 and produced through 2024 for the US market, represents Nissan’s entry-level subcompact SUV offering. Positioned below the Rogue Sport (and later the Rogue), the Kicks aimed to attract buyers seeking affordability, fuel efficiency, and a modern design in a small package. The 1.6-liter engine paired with the Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) was the sole powertrain option for the US market during this generation, emphasizing ease of use and economy over outright performance. This configuration was designed to appeal to urban drivers and first-time car buyers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Kicks |
| Generation | Kicks (P15, USA) (facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (122 Hp) Xtronic |
| Start of production | February 2021 |
| End of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | LEV3-SULEV30 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 122 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4000 rpm (114.32 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HR16DE |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.6 mm (3.29 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVTCS |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.95 l (7.34 US qt | 6.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1217-1245 kg (2683.03 – 2744.76 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1660 kg (3659.67 lbs.) |
| Max load | 415-443 kg (914.92 – 976.65 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 41 l (10.83 US gal | 9.02 UK gal) |
| Length | 4295 mm (169.09 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Height | 1608-1610 mm (63.31 – 63.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2619 mm (103.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1519 mm (59.8 in.) |
| Rear track | 1534 mm (60.39 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 178 mm (7.01 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission Xtronic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 279.4×23.88 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 279.4×9.65 mm |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 205/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 16; 6.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2021-2024 Nissan Kicks is the HR16DE 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a member of Nissan’s HR series, known for its relatively simple design and focus on fuel efficiency. It utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing Control System (VVTCS) to optimize performance and economy across the rev range. The HR16DE is a naturally aspirated engine, meaning it doesn’t employ forced induction like a turbocharger or supercharger. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The engine’s output of 122 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 114 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm is modest, but sufficient for the Kicks’ lightweight construction and intended use case.
The engine is exclusively paired with Nissan’s Xtronic CVT. This transmission simulates gear changes through a system of pulleys and a belt, offering smooth acceleration and maximizing fuel efficiency. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, the CVT continuously adjusts the gear ratio to keep the engine operating in its most efficient range. While the CVT contributes to fuel economy, it can sometimes feel less responsive than a traditional automatic, particularly during quick acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine and Xtronic CVT combination in the Kicks delivers adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is best described as leisurely, with a 0-60 mph time estimated around 9-10 seconds. The CVT prioritizes fuel efficiency over rapid acceleration, resulting in a somewhat “rubber band” feel where engine RPMs rise quickly but don’t always translate into immediate forward momentum. Compared to higher-output engines available in other subcompact SUVs, the Kicks feels underpowered, especially when fully loaded or climbing hills. However, for typical city driving and highway cruising, the powertrain is generally sufficient. The CVT’s smooth operation makes for a comfortable driving experience, and the Kicks’ light weight helps to mitigate the engine’s power deficit.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2021-2024 Nissan Kicks came in three primary trim levels: S, SV, and SR. The base S trim included standard features such as a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, automatic emergency braking, and rear parking sensors. The SV trim added features like alloy wheels, keyless entry, and a more advanced driver-assistance suite. The top-tier SR trim featured a sportier exterior appearance, upgraded interior materials, and additional convenience features. All trims offered optional packages that could add features like a Bose audio system, heated front seats, and a 360-degree camera system. Interior upholstery was primarily cloth, with the SR trim offering optional premium cloth or synthetic leather options.
Chassis & Braking
The Kicks utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with an independent coil spring suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. The torsion beam rear suspension is a cost-effective solution that contributes to the Kicks’ affordability. Front brakes are ventilated discs, while rear brakes are also ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight class. The Kicks features electric power steering, which provides light and easy steering feel. Stabilizer bars are included on both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Kicks was generally well-received by critics for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and stylish design. However, the powertrain was often criticized for its lack of power. Compared to competitors like the Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, and Mazda CX-3, the Kicks offered less horsepower and torque. However, it typically undercut those rivals in price. Fuel economy was a strong point for the Kicks, consistently achieving around 31-33 mpg in combined driving. Reliability ratings were generally average, with some reports of CVT issues, although these were not widespread.
Legacy
The 2021-2024 Nissan Kicks, with its 1.6-liter engine and Xtronic CVT, established itself as a popular choice in the subcompact SUV segment, particularly for budget-conscious buyers. While the powertrain isn’t known for its performance or longevity compared to some other Nissan engines, it has proven to be reasonably reliable for many owners. On the used car market, these Kicks models represent a good value proposition, offering a modern feature set and decent fuel economy at an affordable price point. The Kicks’ success paved the way for a second generation model, continuing Nissan’s presence in the growing subcompact SUV market.
