2020 Nissan Kicks Review: Is It Worth It? (Canada Edition)
Hey there, future car owners! Thinking about snagging a 2020 Nissan Kicks in Canada? You've come to the right place. We're diving deep into this compact SUV to see if it's the right fit for your Canadian adventures. From its fuel efficiency to its tech features, we'll cover all the bases so you can make an informed decision.
Overview of the 2020 Nissan Kicks
The 2020 Nissan Kicks entered the market as a budget-friendly, subcompact SUV that promised a lot of bang for your buck. Aimed at younger buyers and urban dwellers, it boasted funky styling, a surprisingly spacious interior, and a host of tech features that made it an attractive option. But how did it fare in the real world, especially in the diverse and demanding conditions of Canada?
Design and Styling
Let's start with the looks. The Kicks sports a distinctive, youthful design. With its available two-tone paint jobs and bold lines, it definitely stands out in a crowded parking lot. The floating roof design and sharp angles give it a modern edge that appeals to those looking for something a bit different. Inside, the design is simple but functional. Hard plastics are common, but Nissan has done a good job of integrating soft-touch materials in key areas to make the cabin feel less cheap. The contrasting stitching and available color accents add a touch of flair.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the 2020 Kicks features a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers might not sound impressive, the Kicks is surprisingly peppy around town. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is tuned for efficiency, so it keeps the engine in its sweet spot for optimal fuel economy. However, don't expect blistering acceleration – highway merging and passing require some planning. The Kicks is front-wheel drive only, which might be a drawback for some Canadian drivers who need all-wheel drive for winter conditions. Handling is decent, with light steering and a comfortable ride. It's easy to maneuver in tight city streets, and the suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and potholes.
Fuel Efficiency
One of the biggest selling points of the 2020 Nissan Kicks is its impressive fuel economy. It's one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class, making it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers. Officially, it's rated at around 7.7 L/100 km in the city and 6.6 L/100 km on the highway. In real-world driving, you can expect to achieve similar numbers, especially if you drive conservatively. This can save you a significant amount of money at the pump over the long run, which is always a plus in Canada where gas prices can be high.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the Kicks offers a surprising amount of space for a subcompact SUV. There's plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, making it comfortable for longer trips. The rear seats can also fold down to create a generous cargo area, which is perfect for hauling groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. The 2020 Kicks comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that's easy to use and responsive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system. Other available tech features include a Bose premium audio system, a 360-degree camera, and a suite of advanced safety features.
What Makes the 2020 Nissan Kicks Stand Out?
The 2020 Nissan Kicks isn't just another face in the crowd. It brings a unique blend of style, efficiency, and technology to the table, setting it apart from its competitors.
Value for Money
Let's be real – the 2020 Kicks shines when it comes to value. It's one of the most affordable SUVs on the market, making it accessible to a wide range of buyers. Despite its low price, it doesn't skimp on features. Even the base model comes with a decent amount of standard equipment, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. As you move up the trim levels, you get even more goodies like alloy wheels, a premium audio system, and advanced safety features. When you compare the Kicks to its rivals, you'll often find that it offers more features for the same price or less.
Urban-Friendly Design
The Kicks is designed with the urban jungle in mind. Its compact size makes it easy to park and maneuver in tight spaces, which is a huge advantage in crowded cities. The high driving position gives you a good view of the road, helping you spot potential hazards. The light steering and nimble handling make it fun to drive around town. Plus, the available two-tone paint jobs and bold styling make it a head-turner wherever you go. It’s the perfect car for zipping through city streets and making a statement while you're at it.
Tech-Savvy Features
In today's world, technology is a must-have, and the 2020 Kicks delivers. With standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you can easily connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The available Bose premium audio system provides a crisp and immersive listening experience. The 360-degree camera makes parking a breeze, even in the tightest spots. And the suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, helps keep you safe on the road. The Kicks proves that you don't have to spend a fortune to get a tech-packed car.
Potential Drawbacks of the 2020 Nissan Kicks
No car is perfect, and the 2020 Nissan Kicks has its share of drawbacks. It's important to be aware of these before you make a purchase.
Lack of All-Wheel Drive
For many Canadian drivers, all-wheel drive is a must-have, especially if you live in an area with harsh winters. Unfortunately, the Kicks is only available with front-wheel drive. This can be a deal-breaker for some buyers who need the extra traction and stability that all-wheel drive provides. While the Kicks does have traction control and stability control systems, they're not a substitute for all-wheel drive in slippery conditions. If you live in an area with mild winters, front-wheel drive might be sufficient. But if you regularly encounter snow and ice, you might want to consider a different SUV with all-wheel drive.
Engine Performance
The Kicks' 1.6-liter engine is adequate for city driving, but it can feel underpowered on the highway. Acceleration is leisurely, and passing maneuvers require some planning. The CVT transmission can also be a bit noisy and drone-y at times, especially when you're accelerating hard. If you're looking for a sporty and engaging driving experience, the Kicks might not be the right choice. However, if you prioritize fuel efficiency and don't mind sacrificing some performance, the Kicks' engine should be sufficient.
Interior Materials
While the Kicks' interior design is attractive, the materials used are not the most luxurious. Hard plastics are common throughout the cabin, which can make it feel a bit cheap. However, Nissan has done a good job of integrating soft-touch materials in key areas to improve the overall feel. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long trips. And the available color accents and contrasting stitching add a touch of style. Overall, the Kicks' interior is functional and well-designed, but it's not going to win any awards for luxury.
Canadian Winter Considerations
For Canadian drivers, winter is a major consideration when buying a car. How does the 2020 Nissan Kicks hold up in the cold and snow?
Winter Tires
First and foremost, if you live in an area with snowy winters, investing in a set of winter tires is a must. Winter tires provide significantly better traction and braking performance than all-season tires in cold and snowy conditions. They can make a huge difference in the Kicks' winter performance. With winter tires, the Kicks can handle moderate snow and ice without too much trouble. However, keep in mind that it's still a front-wheel-drive car, so you'll need to be cautious and avoid driving in deep snow or icy conditions.
Cold Weather Features
The 2020 Kicks comes with a few features that can help make winter driving more comfortable. Heated front seats are available, which can be a lifesaver on cold mornings. Remote start is also available, allowing you to warm up the car before you get in. The Kicks also has a decent heating system that can quickly warm up the cabin. However, it's worth noting that the Kicks doesn't have a heated steering wheel or windshield wiper de-icer, which are features that some other SUVs offer.
Rust Protection
Salt and road chemicals can wreak havoc on cars in the winter, causing rust and corrosion. It's a good idea to protect your Kicks with a rust-proofing treatment. There are several different types of rust-proofing treatments available, so do some research and choose one that's right for you. You should also wash your car regularly in the winter to remove salt and road chemicals. This will help keep your Kicks looking good for years to come.
Final Verdict: Is the 2020 Nissan Kicks a Good Choice for Canadians?
So, is the 2020 Nissan Kicks a good choice for Canadians? The answer depends on your needs and priorities. If you're looking for an affordable, fuel-efficient, and tech-savvy SUV for city driving, the Kicks is definitely worth considering. It offers a lot of value for the money, and its urban-friendly design makes it easy to live with. However, if you need all-wheel drive for winter conditions or want a more powerful engine, you might want to look elsewhere. Overall, the Kicks is a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers who don't need a lot of power or all-wheel drive.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Excellent fuel economy
- Tech-savvy features
- Spacious interior
- Urban-friendly design
Cons:
- No all-wheel drive
- Underpowered engine
- Basic interior materials
Ultimately, the best way to decide if the 2020 Nissan Kicks is right for you is to take it for a test drive. See how it feels on the road, and make sure it meets your needs and expectations. Happy car shopping, eh!
