Nissan Canada has introduced an intriguing option for crossover shoppers this year: the 2025 Kicks Play. Rebranding the previous generation as "Kicks Play," Nissan has chosen to continue offering the first-generation Kicks model alongside the all-new 2025 Kicks, creating a more comprehensive range of choices for buyers. The Kicks Play presents a persuasive option for those interested in an affordable, city-friendly crossover with solid fuel economy and advanced features.
Why Nissan Introduced the 2025 Kicks Play
With the release of the all-new generation Kicks, Nissan Canada has opted to keep the previous version on the market as the "Kicks Play." This strategic decision allows buyers to choose between a value-packed, familiar model or the latest generation of the Kicks lineup. The Kicks Play gives crossover buyers an affordable entry point, making it an appealing option for those who prioritize budget without compromising on essential features. In a competitive crossover market, the Kicks Play provides a flexible and economical choice, ideally suited to Canadian drivers looking for a balance between functionality and cost-effectiveness.
Key Features of the 2025 Kicks Play S Trim
The 2025 Kicks Play S offers an impressive suite of standard features tailored for daily urban driving. Equipped with Nissan's Safety Shield 360, the Kicks Play S delivers standard safety features such as Intelligent Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and more. These technologies work together to enhance driver confidence and safety during city commutes or highway trips.
In terms of connectivity, the Kicks Play S is ready for modern lifestyles. It includes a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing drivers to easily integrate their smartphones for music, navigation, and hands-free calling. Convenience extends to three USB ports, with one in the front and two rear charge-only ports, making it easy to keep devices powered up on the go. Additionally, this model boasts fuel efficiency with an impressive best-in-class rating of 7.7 L/100km city, 6.6 L/100km highway, and a combined 7.2 L/100km.
For practical daily use, the Kicks Play S also features Easy-Fill Tire Alert for hassle-free tire maintenance, 16-inch wheels for reliable handling, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat that offers versatile cargo space to fit shopping bags, sports gear, or travel essentials. At a starting price of $22,598, the Kicks Play S provides excellent value and a practical package that suits diverse driving needs.
Upgrades in the 2025 Kicks Play SV Trim
The Kicks Play SV trim builds on the foundational features of the S model, adding comfort, convenience, and technology that enhance the driving experience. One of the main upgrades is the larger 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which provides an easier, more engaging experience when interacting with navigation, entertainment, and phone functions. This model also adds Intelligent Cruise Control, a helpful feature for highway driving, which adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe following distance from the car ahead.
Comfortable for colder climates, the Kicks Play SV includes heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, making it an attractive choice for Canadian winters. An automatic climate control system further adds to driver and passenger comfort by maintaining a consistent interior temperature, regardless of weather conditions. In terms of design, the Kicks Play SV stands out with 17-inch alloy wheels and stylish silver-painted roof rails, adding a sleek look while also providing practical storage options for items like bike racks or roof-mounted cargo boxes. The added convenience of an electric parking brake, rear disc brakes, and the Nissan Intelligent Key make daily driving and parking easier.
Priced at $25,198, the Kicks Play SV offers an elevated level of convenience and a refined driving experience without the premium price tag, making it a practical upgrade for those who desire a few more amenities in their crossover.
Why the Kicks Play Is an Attractive Option in 2025
The 2025 Kicks Play fills a unique role in the crossover market by offering a familiar, reliable, and budget-friendly choice alongside the new-generation Kicks model. It gives buyers the option to choose between a tried-and-tested model and the latest redesign, each catering to different buyer priorities. The Kicks Play’s lower starting price and strong fuel efficiency make it a practical option, especially for those who prioritize savings on both the purchase price and long-term fuel costs. With the Kicks Play, Nissan effectively serves customers seeking an entry-level crossover packed with value-driven features like Safety Shield 360, best-in-class fuel efficiency, and high-quality infotainment options.
The choice to keep the first-generation Kicks on the market as the Kicks Play gives buyers the flexibility to choose a crossover that matches their budget and driving needs without sacrificing quality. Whether it's the practicality of the Kicks Play S or the added comforts of the Kicks Play SV, the 2025 Kicks Play is a smart alternative for those seeking a well-rounded, economical vehicle designed with city driving and everyday convenience in mind.
The 2025 Nissan Kicks Play provides a flexible and affordable way to enjoy the benefits of a crossover in a competitive market. By continuing to offer the first-generation Kicks as Kicks Play, Nissan has broadened its appeal, inviting buyers to consider what matters most in their choice of vehicle. For Canadian drivers seeking a budget-friendly, reliable, and city-savvy crossover, the Kicks Play represents a well-equipped and attractive option in the new year.
