There’s no way around it – most automakers have neglected affordable car shoppers. So we notice when one produces an impressive car for the budget market. Nissan may have just done that with a surprise reveal of an all-new version of its Kicks subcompact SUV.

In recent years, they’ve focused on more expensive cars for wealthier buyers and stripped many affordable models from their lineups. It makes business sense in an era of inflation and high-interest-rate loans. But they’re starting to see some pushback as dealers beg them for more, better, affordable cars.

Today, the Kicks on dealer lots is known for sensible pricing and decent fuel economy, but not for its looks. That changes with the redesign.

Like the recent Chevrolet Trax makeover, the updates to the Kicks count as a glow-up. Nissan hasn’t disclosed pricing yet. But if they can match Chevy in keeping the starting price under $25,000, this may be a compelling option.

Sneaker-Inspired Design

Nissan says sneaker designs inspired the new look. We don’t see it, but we do like what we see.

The new model is slightly longer, wider, and taller than the one it replaces. It looks far more grown-up and polished. An upright grille meets a curved greenhouse for a look that neatly splits the difference between rugged and sleek.

It looks exceptionally stylish with a contrast-color roof – quickly becoming Nissan’s signature design trick. Lattice-work graphics low on the side rails add an unusual touch.

Zero Gravity Seats Come to One of the Most Affordable Classes

Inside, a pair of displays are mounted side-by-side to look like one wider screen. They’re only 7 inches in the base model but a full 12.3 in the DR and above. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. A flat-bottomed steering wheel and available contrast-color stitching lend a sporty feel unusual for the class.

“A first for Kicks, both rows of seats use Nissan’s Zero Gravity seating design,” the company says. Those seats are often a highlight of more expensive Nissan products, so to see them in the company’s most affordable SUV is a treat.

Basic Powertrain but Plenty for a Subcompact SUV

Under the hood sits a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), a combination that rarely results in outstanding performance. But it’s rated for 141 horsepower – more than typical in subcompact SUVs.

All-wheel drive (AWD) will be available for the first time on a Kicks.

Nissan says the 2025 Kicks will arrive in dealerships “later this summer.”