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
Turbocharged four-cylinder engine added to the lineup.Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now standard.12-speaker Bose stereo available with Premium Package only.
PROS Upscale interior design and build quality Advanced safety features come standard Poised handling and refined ride quality
CONS Transmission can be slow to downshift Significant rear blind spots Below-average fuel economy
For the CX-30's sophomore year, Mazda's made virtually no changes to it other than making Apple CarPlay and Android Auto both standard features. Mazda also announced the addition of an optional turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that makes 250-hp.
PROS Eager driving dynamics, near-luxury interior trimmings, plenty of standard tech goodies.
CONS Could stand a few more horsepower, offers little added practicality over the Mazda 3 hatchback, occasional transmission stumbles.
The 2021 Mazda CX-30 is great-looking, spacious, and more polished and fun-to-drive than other compact competitors, but it’s a step behind in value and features.
PROS Great proportions and styling Polished powertrain Standard active-safety suite Spacious interior layout.
CONS More expensive than alternatives Frustrating options packages Lacks a touchscreen
