The Good
The 2018 Nissan Kicks offers excellent fuel efficiency, appealing to practical buyers. Its standout design and vibrant color options provide emotional appeal. It's known for its comfortable ride and user-friendly technology. While not a performance powerhouse, its value proposition and perceived reliability are significant advantages.
The Bad
The 2018 Nissan Kicks' weaknesses include its limited engine power, making acceleration sluggish. All-wheel drive is not an option. Some owners have reported issues with the continuously variable transmission (CVT). The interior materials, while functional, can feel basic compared to rivals. Watch out for potential CVT issues during inspection.
2018 Nissan Kicks: Quick Overview
- Engine: 1.6-liter inline-4
- Horsepower: 125 hp @ 5,800 rpm
- Torque: 115 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
- Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Fuel Economy (EPA estimated): 31 mpg city / 36 mpg highway / 33 mpg combined
- 0-60 mph: Around 10.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing
- Trim-Level Features:
- S: 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, automatic emergency braking, rearview camera.
- SV: Adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Nissan Intelligent Mobility, automatic climate control, upgraded interior trim.
- SR: Adds LED headlights, sporty exterior trim, leather-wrapped steering wheel, around-view monitor, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert. Available SR Premium Package adds heated front seats, heated steering wheel, and Bose audio system.
- Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) only
2018 Nissan Kicks Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2018 |
Make | Nissan |
Model | Kicks |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Hatchback |
Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | Mexico |
Manufacturing City | OPPAMA PLANT, YOKOSUKA-SHI |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | - |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6000 pounds |
Overall Height | - |
Overall Length | - |
Overall Width | - |
Wheelbase Length | - |
Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 1.6-L I4 |
Engine Size | 1.6L |
Engine Cylinders | 6 |
Transmission | Automatic |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
Transmission Speeds | - |
Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | Standard |
Steering Type | - |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
Invoice Price | - |
Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2018 Nissan Kicks Have?
How long will the 2018 Nissan Kicks last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features include standard anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave the 2018 Kicks an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave the 2018 Kicks a "Good" rating in several crash tests, earning it a Top Safety Pick award when equipped with optional LED headlights. Overall, the 2018 Kicks provides a decent array of tech and safety features for its price point.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2018 Nissan Kicks Prices and Market Value
2018 Nissan Kicks Cost of Ownership
2018 Nissan Kicks Fuel Efficiency
2018 Nissan Kicks Safety Rating
NHTSA
2018 Nissan Kicks Recalls & Defects
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
2018 Nissan Kicks Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2018 Nissan Kicks Compare to Other Hatchback?
Feature-wise, the Kicks holds its own, offering a good array of standard equipment, especially on higher trims. Reliability is generally good, but the CVT is a potential concern compared to the more traditional automatics in the HR-V and CX-3. Price is where the Kicks shines, often undercutting its rivals, making it a compelling value proposition.
Alternatives to consider include the Hyundai Kona for better performance, the Honda HR-V for more cargo space, or the Mazda CX-3 for a more premium feel. The Kia Soul is also a similar alternative, offering unique styling and good value. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities, but the Kicks is a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers.
Ranks #945 Sedan
1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0β ) |
2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0β ) |
3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0β ) |
4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0β ) |
5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0β ) |
6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0β ) |
7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0β ) |
8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0β ) |
9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0β ) |
10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0β ) |
11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0β ) |
12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0β ) |
945 | 2018 Nissan Kicks | (5.0β ) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2018 Nissan Kicks a Good Hatchback?
Tristy on October 12, 2023
Turning off the Crash Detection SensorI like the vehicle a lot. Something I was wary about was the reliability as I had read reviews of the car losing power, the jerkiness of changing gear, and the crash detection sensor going off randomly. I had to replace the MAF sensor 3 times within the first month or two of owning the vehicle. I then came to realize it appears to be an electrical fault, when the crash detection sensor goes off (randomly, usually in rain or bright sunlight) it creates an issue with the vehicle's performance. I have started turning off the sensor every time I get in the vehicle and haven't had a single performance issue since. Long road trips through Washington rain and sunny Arizona. Disappointing to have to be inconvenienced, but it's a two second fix when I start the vehicle for a wonderful and fun and sporty ride.
Kmac728 on March 16, 2022
I live my kicksItβs stylish and sporty looking - it has faster acceleration than I thought via the reviews. The 10.8 gallon gas tank is not favorable but it works. The gas mileage isnβt as good as I thought, but better than my Camaro so itβs a plus.
Bassgirl on March 20, 2021
The best updated technology I've ever ownedJust Purchased it today. The interior and exterior are looking good. I just wish I could see myself driving it from the outside inward, as an onlooker! the car is quiet and I like that.
tarah459 on March 11, 2021
very disappointedInitially I had a great car buying experience from Sandy Sansing Chevrolet in Pensacola, however it quickly turned into a nightmare. I have not had the vehicle for even a month yet and have not even made my first car payment. I reached out to the sales guy (Josh) whom I bought the vehicle from and while he was very helpful with getting the initial issue addressed they could not fix it at Sandy Sansing Chevrolet. The car (2018 Nissan Kicks) was rough idling and the sensor for the Unavailable front radar obstruction keeps coming on. I was referred to Sandy Sansing Nissan. Nissan has looked at my vehicle 3 times and the issue is still not resolved. This past Saturday I went to put my car in reverse and the car was making a grinding noise (metal on metal). If it did not do that then when taking it from park to reverse the car would literally jerk from gear to gear. I took video of all that is going on with the car and showed it to the service advisor at Nissan. He said that the vehicle definitely should not be having theses issues and it is still under warranty. I should not be dealing with these types of issues. I even asked one of the managers at Sandy Sansing Chevrolet if they would be willing to put me in another vehicle and they refused. He said once I have had the vehicle for a while they would look at a trade in but it would make my payment increase. He was not very understanding about the issues I have been having and I found him to be rude. He stated that he would reach out to the service advisor at Sandy Sansing Nissan and talk to him about the issues and would give me a call on 3/8/21 but I have yet to hear from him. So at this point I have reached out to Nissan Corporate and hoping to get a positive outcome. I highly recommend not going to this dealership.
NadjaCT on March 10, 2021
In love with this purchase.This car catch my I as soon as I saw it in the dealer. Unusual color nickel and black. The inside in excellent conditions. Love it.
Not happy on August 15, 2020
I have had front grill replaced twiceI don't the fact that the front grill keeps melting and looks bad and nissan won't do anything about it . They won't even try and fix problem or even do any testing to figure out why the front grill keeps melting.
Irishred on April 7, 2020
More of a local carI traded in my 2013 Kia Optima for the Kicks, thinking I would be getting better gas mileage, especially that I drive, on average, 100 miles everyday... reality quickly slapped me in the face. The Kicks is a roomy vehicle with great technology, but the gas mileage does not work for someone who is constantly on the road, like myself. It has a very small tank and within the first week of owning it, I had filled up the tank twice. It only holds about 350 miles on average per fill up, so you will tend to visit the gas station more frequently. The Kia I had filled up at over 515 miles per fill up and lasted longer on the road. I knew that the Kicks offered up to 36 mpg, but didn't think it would be this bad. Not a good choice if you work/live long distance. Otherwise, it's a comfortable vehicle to drive.
Pinnapa on February 24, 2020
Drive safely. Safe gas.Safe gas . Good for stuff large room Perfect for family . . Drive up to the hills is power . Easy to park good Clear for back up camera.
Suzanne on February 22, 2020
I am in love with this car! Exactly what I wanted!This car meets all of my needs, period. I LOVE driving it! My 2018 Kicks rocks! Nissan of Woburn took great care of me! Yay!
disappointed on January 20, 2020
Unreliable with lots of electrical issuesBought my car previously owned with 3,000 miles on it. Thought I found a great deal and was super excited about the car. I drove it for a couple weeks and then the issues started and haven't stopped. 1) 12/11/10 - front motion sensor wasn't working and I kept getting an error message stating "front radar obstruction" every time I drove it. They sent me home with a loaner and I picked it up a few hours later. Figured it was a minor issue and that would be the end of it. 2) 12/30/19 - car wouldn't start and kept giving an error message in the dash saying "no key detected". I tried my spare key. "no key detected." / Locked the car to go inside to call Nissan and the keys would no longer unlock the vehicle. The tow truck came and was able to get the driver's side open to tow the vehicle back to the garage. Nissan called back a day later and recommended replacing the alternator and it was very rare to happen to a car this new. Said they could replace it under warranty, but it might be a while. There were supposedly only a handful of replacements in the company so I was without my car for a week+ waiting for repairs to finish. Post repairs, I got my car home for 2 days. Drove it once with no issues. 3) 2 days later, it wouldn't start again. The same exact error message appeared on my dashboard saying "no key detected" even though my key was on the dashboard. Called to have it towed a 2nd time. My car was back two me in 2 days, with the dealership claiming it was the battery this time. Asked me if I accidentally left something on, to which I told them I hadn't. They weren't sure the cause, but said they tested the battery and it was fine. 4) I drove home from Nissan service garage and parked my car where it sat for days untouched. It then wouldn't start again when I went to leave for work on 1/9/2020. This time, we jump-started it and let the battery charge for 15-20minutes. Turned it off and restarted it. It started. Turned the car off and when I went to drive it again 4 hours later, it was already dead again. To no surprise, the same error message came up that it wasn't detecting a key. Drove it to the dealership who said they'd keep it for the weekend and test it. 5) Tuesday, 1/21/2020, they called me and said they found gps tracker (which I did not install and the dealership never informed me that was on the car when I purchased it) and thought it was causing the battery to die. Asked if I wanted them to remove it. I said yes. They removed the tracking device and said they'd let the car sit a couple days and then test it again. Nissan called me Friday night to pick up the car, saying it was ready to picked up and was the battery. I couldn't make it there until the next morning and when I arrived, they said the car was working fine. Walked out to my car to leave and it wouldn't even start in the parking lot. I told the service dept and was told that the battery probably needed more time to charge then and to be driven around more and that is common in cold weather (seems like nonsense on a 2018 vehicle that supposedly started without issues for them the day before like they said). I have been without my car for weeks now and am convinced it's a lemon. No new car should have this many repeat issues. I've filed a claim with Nissan who said they would call me back last Wednesday with their answer. When they called, the Nissan rep said she didn't have an answer yet and would let me know when she did. Still waiting with no car that I'm paying for.... Don't waste your time with this one folks. From the car to the company, it's been a terrible experience.