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 2021 Jeep Renegade is the small off-road SUV that doesn’t know how to quit.
Pros Good looks Capable turbo-4 Standard active safety features Good touchscreen
Cons Pricey top trims Cramped rear Poor safety scores Bad base powertrain
For 2021, the Renegade receives a slew of newly standard driver assists and additional trim levels. All models now have blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and more. The lineup also adds an 80th Anniversary Edition and an Islander Edition. The former rolls on Granite Crystal 19-inch wheels, wears trim-specific badging, and has distinct interior appointments.
Pros Adorable-meets-adventurous styling, most models have a relaxing ride, Trailhawk can tackle serious off-road challenges.
Cons Acceleration requires patience, no fuel-efficient options, lower trims cost more than similar rivals.
The 2021 Jeep Renegade's #12 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the Jeep Renegade has a score of 6.9 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 35 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
PROS Solid off-road capability Composed ride and handling Easy-to-use infotainment system
CONS Rock-bottom predicted reliability rating Sluggish acceleration Subpar fuel economy ratings
