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 Mazda CX-3 comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.The CX-3 lineup has been reduced to only the Sport trim.Many more standard advanced safety features.Added convenience features including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Pros Attractive and comfortable interior Engaging driving experience Impressive fuel economy for a crossover Good selection of available driver aids and active safety features
Cons Below-average cargo space Cramped rear seat Suspension tuning could be too firm for some
The 2020 Mazda CX-3 is stylish but impractical for a crossover SUV.
Pros Perky styling Lots of safety gear Good mpg Decent ride and handling
Cons Cramped rear seat Limited cargo room Frustrating infotainment Grand Touring is pricey
Mazda bestowed a bounty of updates during the previous model year, which include visual refreshments and additional driver assists, but the company doesn't make any significant changes to the 2020 CX-3 lineup.
Pros Drives better than its rivals, drinks less fuel than its rivals, looks better than its rivals.
Cons Back seat and cargo area are too small, coarse engine noises, can't hide harsh bumps.
