“I really like the kicks it's cute and fits my lifestyle right now. The safety features and iPhone compatibility are a big plus and it's a decent size with more room than it looks like it would have”
2021 Nissan Kicks: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2021 Nissan Kicks is a mid-cycle refresh with sharper front and rear styling. It also gets updated cabin trim and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on every trim, while the engine, automatic transmission, and front-wheel-drive layout carry over.
About the 2021 Nissan Kicks
1st generation (2018-2024), mid-cycle refresh year.
Nissan positions the Kicks as a small, city-friendly crossover with standout styling, easy maneuverability, strong fuel economy, and more safety tech than many budget-minded rivals. It is meant for drivers who want SUV ride height and cargo flexibility without moving up to a larger vehicle. The big selling points are standard Safety Shield 360, easy smartphone connectivity, and a youthful design theme rather than strong acceleration or all-wheel drive.
The S covers the basics with a 7-inch touchscreen, phone integration, rear parking sensors, and Nissan's driver-assistance suite. The SV is the comfort-and-tech step up with an 8-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, remote start, and automatic climate control, while the sport-styled SR adds LED lighting, darker exterior details, and a 360-degree camera.
What changed, by category
Styling
Nissan redesigned the grille, front bumper, rear bumper, taillight treatment, and wheel designs. Updated interior trim and materials give the cabin a slightly nicer feel.
Tech
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto became standard on every trim. The SV and SR gained a standard 8-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, an electronic parking brake with automatic hold, and a center armrest.
2021 Nissan Kicks specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT w/Xtronic | Automatic, CVT w/Xtronic | Automatic, CVT w/Xtronic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 31 mpg | 31 mpg | 31 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 36 mpg | 36 mpg | 36 mpg |
| Horsepower | 122 hp | 122 hp | 122 hp |
| Torque | 114 lb-ft | 114 lb-ft | 114 lb-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33.4 in | 33.4 in | 33.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| 4-Wheel Disc Brakes | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Driver Attention Assist Monitor | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| 360 Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Touch Screen Monitor | |||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
| Rear Air Conditioning | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Remote Start | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2021 Nissan Kicks?
The biggest change is refreshed styling. The 2021 Kicks has a redesigned grille, front and rear bumpers, updated taillight details, new wheel designs, and revised cabin trim.
Does every 2021 Nissan Kicks have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on every 2021 Kicks trim, including the base S.
Did the 2021 Nissan Kicks get a new engine or AWD?
No. Every 2021 Kicks keeps the 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive; AWD is not offered.
Which 2021 Nissan Kicks trims have the larger touchscreen and adaptive cruise control?
The SV and SR have the 8-inch touchscreen and adaptive cruise control. The S uses a 7-inch touchscreen and does not include adaptive cruise control.
2021 Nissan Kicks Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 Nissan Kicks.
4.2
2021 Nissan Kicks
(1,363 reviews)
“I love almost everything about this car, especially the handling and visibility, tech features and creature comfort of heated seats and steering wheel, remote start, and bose sound system. I absolutely miss AWD and would love this car in hybrid version.”
“I love the shape of the 2021 Nissan Kicks and the gas mileage is a perk. I also enjoy the 10 gallon tank. I only drive a few times a week, so I fill up once a week. The remote start is awesome during the winter! I do wish the cup holders were better and that the trunk was able to open with the remote. A built in alarm would be nice.”