Nissan's smallest crossover receives a styling update for 2021 which includes a larger grille, streamlined headlamps and taillamps, redesigned front and rear bumpers, and a new 17-inch aluminum wheel design. Nissan has also expanded the availability of the contrasting black roof option to cars painted in Scarlet Ember Tintcoat, Boulder Gray Pearl, and Electric Blue Metallic. Inside, SV and SR models now come with a new 8.0-inch infotainment system, and all Kicks trims now feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.A Wi-Fi hotspot is now available as an option on the top spec SR trim.
PROS Peppy around town, spacious cabin, generous standard equipment.
CONS Anemic at highway speeds, engine sounds thrashy at high revs, a few more storage cubbies wouldn't hurt.
The 2021 Nissan Kicks's #5 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the Nissan Kicks has a score of 7.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 32 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
PROS Plenty of standard features Good cargo space for the class Excellent fuel economy
CONS Lackluster highway acceleration All-wheel drive not offered Worst predicted reliability score in the class
For 2021 Restyled exterior, Mild upgrades to cabin materials, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration now standard.
PROS Comes standard with lots of advanced driver aids Affordably priced High fuel economy Easy-to-use controls
CONS Leisurely acceleration Uncomfortable seats Not much rear legroom No optional all-wheel drive
The 2020 Chevrolet Trax ranked #10 in Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Chevrolet Trax has a score of 6.8 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 41 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Easy maneuverability User-friendly infotainment system is standard
Cons Interior quality is a mixed bag Lackluster engine Stiff ride
The 2020 Chevrolet Trax comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic. Midnight Edition package no longer available.
Pros Appealing passenger space for its size Plenty of features for the price
Cons Ride quality is choppy on the freeway Slow acceleration from the underpowered engine Less cargo space than some rivals Fuel economy falls short for the class
There's no shortage of small SUVs in the subcompact class and, among them, the 2020 Chevrolet Trax is one of the least compelling. Yes, it's comfortable and spacious, especially in regard to headroom. It stops, goes, and turns. And it comes standard with a healthy load of features, including touchscreen navigation and a Wi-Fi hotspot. But its weak turbocharged engine delivers painfully slow acceleration and its chintzy cabin materials and uninspired design, both inside and out, make for rental-car ambience.
Pros Excellent outward visibility, plentiful standard infotainment features, capable enough handling.
Cons Anemic engine, rental-car interior trappings, minimal active-safety tech.
