Nissan Kicks vs Ford EcoSport: A Positive Spin on Compact Crossovers

The compact crossover segment is one of the most contested in the automotive market today offering buyers a blend of SUV features with the handling of a smaller car. Two strong contenders Nissan Kicks and Ford EcoSport are trying to win the hearts of the same kind of drivers. So how do they really compare Well today we'll dive deep into their strengths and weaknesses giving you the full picture without sugarcoating anything.

Overview of the Nissan Kicks and Ford EcoSport

Both the Nissan Kicks and Ford EcoSport fit comfortably in the subcompact SUV category making them ideal for urban drivers who want the convenience of a smaller vehicle but the elevated driving position of an SUV.

Nissan Kicks

The Nissan Kicks is a practical choice—its affordable its fuel-efficient and it provides all the features most drivers need for daily commutes. First launched globally in 2016 the Kicks was designed as an urban crossover. It’s got a sleek modern design and a comfortable interior and its big selling point is practicality.

Ford EcoSport

On the other hand the Ford EcoSport brings with it the flair of Ford’s SUV legacy even if it's the smallest SUV in their lineup. Since its introduction the EcoSport has gained popularity for its driving dynamics and its techy interior. Though compact it doesn't compromise too much on personality.

Exterior Design and Styling

The Look of the Nissan Kicks

The Nissan Kicks has a distinct youthful style that is heavily influenced by Nissan's V-Motion design language. Its slim grille and sporty LED headlights combined with a floating roof make it an attractive option especially in brighter colors like Monarch Orange or Cayenne Red. For those who appreciate a bold statement the Kicks checks off the visual box nicely.

• Pros:

  • Sleek aerodynamic design
  • Multiple two-tone color options

• Cons:

  • Limited ground clearance compared to some competitors
  • Not as "rugged" looking for those who prefer an SUV feel

The Look of the Ford EcoSport

The Ford EcoSport on the other hand wears a more rugged and upright style. With its signature hexagonal grille and available roof rails the EcoSport appears a bit tougher. One quirky feature is the side-hinged rear door which may either be a hit or a miss depending on your taste.

• Pros:

  • More aggressive SUV styling
  • Functional roof rails for extra gear

• Cons:

  • The rear swing door is inconvenient in tight parking spaces
  • Starting to feel a bit outdated against newer rivals

Interior Features: Comfort and Tech

Stepping Inside the Nissan Kicks

When you climb inside the Nissan Kicks the cabin is bright and surprisingly roomy for a subcompact. The dashboard features a clean simple design with an 8-inch touchscreen that's easy to navigate. Nissan’s Zero Gravity seats are another high point providing comfort even on longer drives.

• Pros:

  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard
  • Ample cargo space for a car of this size
  • The Bose Personal Plus sound system available in the higher trims is a nice luxury touch

• Cons:

  • Hard plastics are found throughout the cabin
  • Lack of an all-wheel-drive option may be a drawback for some

Alex Collantes an owner of the Nissan Kicks said "I love how the interior just feels spacious despite the car's smaller footprint. But the plastic on the dash does give it a bit of a budget feel which isn't ideal."

Stepping Inside the Ford EcoSport

Ford EcoSport's interior gives off a more rugged vibe fitting its more adventurous nature. The seating position is higher and the SYNC 3 infotainment system remains one of the best in its class. However it feels a bit tighter than the Kicks particularly in the rear seats which might be a dealbreaker for families.

• Pros:

  • SYNC 3 infotainment is intuitive and responsive
  • More traditional SUV feel from the driver’s seat
  • An available moonroof brings in extra light

• Cons:

  • Rear seats can feel cramped especially for taller passengers
  • Lacks the stylish flare found in other competitors

Performance and Driving Impressions

Under the Hood of the Nissan Kicks

The Nissan Kicks is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 122 horsepower. While this isn't a powerhouse the Kicks does have a very efficient CVT transmission which helps it achieve impressive fuel economy numbers—up to 31 mpg city and 36 mpg highway.

• Pros:

  • Fantastic fuel efficiency
  • Light steering which makes city driving easier

• Cons:

  • Underpowered compared to some competitors
  • Can feel sluggish when merging on highways

Under the Hood of the Ford EcoSport

The Ford EcoSport offers a bit more variety with its two engine options: a 1.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged three-cylinder or a 2.0-liter four-cylinder which comes with all-wheel-drive. With up to 166 horsepower in the larger engine option it has a slight edge in terms of power.

• Pros:

  • AWD option makes it more versatile
  • Peppier acceleration than the Kicks

• Cons:

  • Fuel economy drops with the larger engine and AWD
  • The three-cylinder engine vibrates quite a bit and isn't the smoothest

Safety and Driver Assistance

Nissan Kicks Safety Features

The Nissan Kicks takes safety seriously. It comes standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360 which includes features like automatic emergency braking blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

• Pros:

  • Comprehensive suite of safety features standard
  • High crash test ratings

• Cons:

  • No available all-wheel-drive limits capability in poor weather conditions

Ford EcoSport Safety Features

Ford EcoSport falls a bit short in this department. While it offers the usual safety features like a rearview camera and some basic driver aids it lacks some of the more advanced safety features found in the Kicks.

• Pros:

  • Available rear parking sensors
  • Optional blind-spot information system in higher trims

• Cons:

  • Many advanced features are optional rather than standard
  • Lower crash test ratings compared to some rivals

Practicality: Cargo Space and Fuel Economy

Nissan Kicks Practicality

The Nissan Kicks shines in terms of practicality. It offers 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats which is more than many rivals in this class. When the rear seats are folded down it expands even more.

• Pros:

  • Best-in-class cargo capacity
  • Great fuel efficiency

• Cons:

  • Rear seats don't fold completely flat

Ford EcoSport Practicality

Ford EcoSport has 20.9 cubic feet of cargo space which is a bit less than the Kicks. While it does have some clever storage solutions the swinging tailgate is either a pro or a con depending on the scenario.

• Pros:

  • Versatile storage options like hidden cubbies
  • Available AWD adds more practicality for mixed road conditions

• Cons:

  • Cargo space isn't as generous
  • The side-hinged door can be annoying in tighter parking lots

Pricing and Value for Money

How Much Does the Nissan Kicks Cost?

The Nissan Kicks starts at around $21,000 making it one of the more affordable options in the compact crossover market. It's easy on the wallet and offers great value for the features it provides.

• Pros:

  • Affordable starting price
  • Well-equipped even in the base trim

• Cons:

  • Lacks some of the upscale features of pricier models

How Much Does the Ford EcoSport Cost?

The Ford EcoSport comes in at around $23,000 for the base trim which is a bit higher compared to the Kicks. With more features as standard and the availability of AWD the EcoSport might seem like a better value for those needing more versatility.

• Pros:

  • Available AWD makes it more appealing in harsher climates
  • More engine options for varying needs

• Cons:

  • The starting price is higher
  • Some important safety features cost extra

Summary: Nissan Kicks vs Ford EcoSport—Which One Wins?

Final Thoughts on Nissan Kicks

The Nissan Kicks offers fantastic value for buyers who are looking for an affordable practical and efficient crossover. Its strengths lie in fuel efficiency cargo space and a solid range of standard safety features. The major downside is its underwhelming performance and lack of AWD.

Final Thoughts on Ford EcoSport

The Ford EcoSport offers a bit more power and the availability of AWD which makes it a better choice for those living in places with unpredictable weather. However it lacks the fuel efficiency and modern safety features that many might expect in this price range. The quirky side-hinged door and cramped rear seats could be dealbreakers for some.

Alex Collantes shared his thoughts "I went with the EcoSport because I needed AWD and like the higher driving position. But honestly I wish it came with more standard safety tech like the Kicks. Sometimes I feel like I'm paying more for less."

Making the Right Choice

If you want the most bang for your buck and prioritize efficiency and safety the Nissan Kicks is an excellent choice.

If you want a more traditional SUV with AWD options and are okay with paying a bit more for some extra ruggedness the Ford EcoSport will suit you better.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is the Nissan Kicks good for long drives?

  • Yes the Nissan Kicks is comfortable for long drives especially due to its Zero Gravity seats though the engine might feel a bit lacking on steep climbs.

• Can the Ford EcoSport go off-road?

  • It’s not really an off-road vehicle but the available AWD system makes it better suited for light off-pavement travel compared to the Kicks.

Conclusion

The Nissan Kicks and Ford EcoSport both cater to different audiences. The Kicks is ideal for those seeking practicality efficiency and affordability while the EcoSport leans towards those desiring a more rugged experience with AWD versatility. Test driving both will be your best bet in finding out which compact crossover feels like home for you.

Whether it's the stylish Nissan Kicks or the more traditional Ford EcoSport each has something unique to offer without overpromising what they can't deliver.