The 2025 Nissan Kicks Play arrives as an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers looking for a stylish and practical compact SUV. By carrying over the first-generation Kicks under the "Play" name, Nissan ensures that customers still have access to an affordable and well-equipped crossover, even as the all-new 2025 Kicks enters the market. Available in S and SV trims, the Kicks Play delivers exceptional fuel efficiency, a robust suite of safety features, and modern tech that competes with more expensive rivals.
The subcompact SUV segment is filled with options from brands like Hyundai, Kia, Toyota, and Honda, each offering its own take on affordability and functionality. However, the 2025 Kicks Play stands out with its class-leading efficiency, generous standard features, and an emphasis on safety that often requires costly upgrades in competing models. Here's how the Kicks Play holds its ground against the competition.
Fuel Efficiency That Saves at the Pump
One of the biggest advantages of the 2025 Nissan Kicks Play is its fuel economy, which outshines many competitors. With an estimated 7.7 L/100 km in the city, 6.6 L/100 km on the highway, and a combined rating of 7.2 L/100 km, it’s among the most efficient gasoline-powered subcompact SUVs available. By comparison, models like the Hyundai Venue and Toyota Corolla Cross tend to consume more fuel, particularly in urban settings.
The Kicks Play achieves these numbers with its naturally aspirated 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. While not designed for performance enthusiasts, it offers a smooth and predictable ride, making it an excellent choice for daily commuting and city driving. Paired with an Xtronic CVT, the Kicks Play ensures efficient power delivery without sacrificing ride comfort.
More Standard Features for Less
Even at its base trim, the 2025 Kicks Play comes with a solid list of standard features that provide excellent value for its price. The entry-level S model includes a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Nissan Safety Shield 360, cruise control, three USB ports, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. Many rivals, such as the Honda HR-V and Toyota Corolla Cross, require buyers to step up to higher trims to access similar features.
The Kicks Play SV trim adds even more value, offering 17-inch alloy wheels, an 8-inch touchscreen, an additional USB-C port, Intelligent Cruise Control, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote engine start. These enhancements elevate the SUV’s convenience factor, making it a strong competitor against pricier alternatives.
A Safety Leader in Its Class
Nissan has equipped the Kicks Play with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, making it one of the safest options in the subcompact SUV market. Standard on all trims is Nissan Safety Shield 360, which includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and Rear Automatic Braking.
The Kicks Play’s competitors often make similar safety features available only on mid-range or top-tier trims. For example, the Hyundai Venue lacks blind-spot monitoring on lower trims, while the Kia Soul charges extra for features like rear automatic braking. By making these systems standard, Nissan ensures that every Kicks Play owner benefits from enhanced driver assistance.
Compact Yet Practical
Despite its compact footprint, the 2025 Kicks Play offers generous interior space. With 716.4 litres of cargo volume behind the second row, it outperforms some larger competitors, including the Mazda CX-30. Folding the rear seats expands the cargo space to 914.6 litres, making it a versatile choice for urban drivers who need flexibility for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment.
Passenger comfort is another highlight. The Kicks Play provides 1,111 mm of front legroom, making it one of the roomiest options in its category. Rear passengers also get a comfortable 824.5 mm of legroom, ensuring a pleasant ride for all occupants.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Nissan Kicks Play proves that affordability doesn’t have to mean sacrificing features, efficiency, or safety. With its competitive fuel economy, extensive standard technology, and best-in-class safety features, it stands tall against competitors like the Hyundai Venue, Kia Soul, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Honda HR-V. Whether you’re a city commuter looking for efficiency or a first-time SUV buyer wanting value, the Kicks Play delivers a compelling package at an unbeatable price.
For more details or to test drive the 2025 Nissan Kicks Play, visit Waterloo Nissan today.
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