The 2018 Nissan Kicks is a high-riding compact hatchback, but its spec sheet doesn't look very thrilling.The 2018 Nissan Kicks is a far more conventional crossover than its Juke predecessor. That doesn't mean it's a dullard in the looks department, though.
Pros Distinctive styling Standard automatic emergency braking City-size dimensions
Cons Decidedly short on power No AWD? Could be a great value
Replacing the Juke at the small end of Nissan’s SUV lineup, the Kicks is a cheeky entry into the subcompact-crossover class. The sole engine is a 125-hp four-cylinder mated with a CVT and front-wheel drive, so it loses the turbocharged Juke’s fun factor, but it attempts to make up for that with more interior space and plenty of features. Forward-collision warning and autonomous emergency braking are standard, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are optional. It goes on sale in June 2018. Despite the jump in size, Nissan hasn’t seen fit to augment anything under the hood. In fact, it has done exactly the opposite by installing a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter inline-four in the Kicks as the sole powerplant. It produces a paltry 125 horsepower and 115 lb-ft of torque, down 63 ponies and 62 lb-ft compared with the Juke’s turbocharged 1.6-liter unit. Further sapping the fun, the Kicks comes only with a continuously variable automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.
Nissan has introduced the newest member of its lineup, the 2018 Kicks, which slots into Nissan's SUV lineup below the Rogue Sport. It hits dealerships in summer 2018.
We're not sure what the introduction of another small utility vehicle means for Nissan's existing subcompact SUV, the Juke. There's no official word from Nissan yet on the Juke's fate, but if I had to guess, it's just a matter of time before the Kicks ... well, kicks the Juke to the curb.
The Kicks will be offered in three trim levels: Kicks S, Kicks SV and Kicks SR.
The 2018 Nissan Kicks ranked #7 in Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Nissan Kicks has a score of 7.9 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 10 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent fuel economy Low base price Plenty of standard and optional features Ample cargo space
Cons Somewhat weak engine Rear seats don't fold flat
The Audi Q5 is certainly the segment's most modern offering, delivering a high degree of technology, comfort, and conservative style. The 2018 Audi Q5 is a five-seater compact crossover SUV that's all-new for 2018 and squares off against competitors like the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, and the Jaguar F-Pace.
Pros High-tech interior Terrific ride quality Refined powertrain Standard all-wheel drive Good interior packaging
Cons Styling is derivative Tech requires acclimation Not particularly sporty Some rivals have more personality
The 2018 Audi Q5 ranked #1 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Audi Q5 has a score of 8.9 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 26 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Long list of standard features Lively acceleration Spacious cabin
Cons Above-class-average starting price
Entering its second-generation, the 2018 Audi Q5 is all-new. It now offers more power from the standard engine, a revised all-wheel-drive system, more available technology features and crisp, new styling.
PROS All-new chassis helps deliver smoother ride than before Quiet, comfortable cabin features top-notch interior craftsmanship All-wheel drive comes standard Wide array of technology options
CONS Diminished space for luggage behind rear seats Only one engine offered
