2024 Nissan Kicks Is Super Affordable, But At What Cost?

Sep. 23, 2023 6:17 AM ET byJacob Oliva Pricing /6 Comments

With newer options in the market, Nissan will need to do better than offering halogens and drum brakes.

Nissan has announced the 2024 pricing for theKicksand the upgrades for the new model year. With the price adjustments, the small crossover remains an affordable option in the market despite the few updates.

The Nissan Kicks still nears the $20,000 mark for the 2024 model year, with a starting price of $20,790, representing a mere $200 increasecompared to last year. This pricing strategy keeps the Kicks accessible to a wide range of buyers.

Without any update to the design, the Kicks receives NissanConnect Services for the mid-level SV trim with a three-year trial. Previously reserved for the top-spec SR, the feature allows remote lock/unlock doors and start/stop the engine from smartphones, adding a layer of convenience to owners.

However, it's important to note that the affordability of the 2024 Kicks comes with compromises. The base S model features halogen headlights, rear drum brakes, and 16-inch steel wheels. Inside, it offers manual climate controls and an optional center armrest. Even the SV trim, which starts at $22,650, still comes with halogen headlights - but at least the rear brakes are upgraded to discs.

On the positive side, the Kicks still has essential features such as cruise control, power windows and locks, a six-speaker audio system, and a seven-inch infotainment system. The vehicle also boasts a range of driver assistance systems, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear automatic braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

The top-spec SR, which starts at $23,350, naturally gets all the goodies. Enhancements include disc brakes, 17-inch alloy wheels, body-color components, roof rails, LEDs, Intelligent Cruise Control, and an eight-inch infotainment system.

Of note, all the prices mentioned don't include the $1,335 destination and handling charge.

Powering the 2024 Nissan Kicks is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque, mated to an Xtronic continuously variable transmission, which sends power exclusively to the front wheels. Beyond the cheap pricing, the Kicks is also thrifty at the pumps with EPA-rated fuel economy ratings at 31/36/33 mpg city/highway/combined.

With car prices rising, only afew remain under 20kin the US. The Kicks still starting near the mark spells good news for budget-conscious buyers. However, it's important to note that theredesigned Chevy Trax is cheaper(discounting destination charges), making the newer model a compelling alternative.

Hopefully, Nissan will rectify the lag in standard equipment in the redesigned model,expected to be introduced in June 2024.