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 2018 Mazda CX-5 ranked #2 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Mazda CX-5 has a score of 8.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 27 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent handling Comfortable, supportive seats Upscale interior
Cons Cumbersome infotainment system Unimpressive cargo capacity
As long as cargo space isn’t your main reason for buying a compact crossover, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 is an excellent, fun-to-drive choice.
Pros Attractive styling inside and out Poised chassis, communicative steering Engine changes bode well for mpg Good value, especially considering high spec level Rear seats fold flat
Cons Frustrating infotainment setup Light cargo volume Short on refinement
The 2018 Mazda CX-5 largely carries over from the previous model year, when it was extensively redesigned. New for 2018 are such standard features as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Also new is cylinder-deactivation technology intended to improve fuel economy slightly. The 2.5-liter engine automatically shuts down the two outside cylinders at cruising speeds to maximize efficiency. Last year's Grand Select trim level has been discontinued for 2018.
PROS Keen handling and steering make the CX-5 enjoyable to drive Attractive and upscale cabin for a premium ownership experience Stays quiet at highway speeds
CONS Not as powerful as some rivals
