The 2018 Nissan Kicks is a high-riding compact hatchback, but its spec sheet doesn't look very thrilling.The 2018 Nissan Kicks is a far more conventional crossover than its Juke predecessor. That doesn't mean it's a dullard in the looks department, though.
Pros Distinctive styling Standard automatic emergency braking City-size dimensions
Cons Decidedly short on power No AWD? Could be a great value
Replacing the Juke at the small end of Nissan’s SUV lineup, the Kicks is a cheeky entry into the subcompact-crossover class. The sole engine is a 125-hp four-cylinder mated with a CVT and front-wheel drive, so it loses the turbocharged Juke’s fun factor, but it attempts to make up for that with more interior space and plenty of features. Forward-collision warning and autonomous emergency braking are standard, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are optional. It goes on sale in June 2018. Despite the jump in size, Nissan hasn’t seen fit to augment anything under the hood. In fact, it has done exactly the opposite by installing a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter inline-four in the Kicks as the sole powerplant. It produces a paltry 125 horsepower and 115 lb-ft of torque, down 63 ponies and 62 lb-ft compared with the Juke’s turbocharged 1.6-liter unit. Further sapping the fun, the Kicks comes only with a continuously variable automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.
Nissan has introduced the newest member of its lineup, the 2018 Kicks, which slots into Nissan's SUV lineup below the Rogue Sport. It hits dealerships in summer 2018.
We're not sure what the introduction of another small utility vehicle means for Nissan's existing subcompact SUV, the Juke. There's no official word from Nissan yet on the Juke's fate, but if I had to guess, it's just a matter of time before the Kicks ... well, kicks the Juke to the curb.
The Kicks will be offered in three trim levels: Kicks S, Kicks SV and Kicks SR.
The 2018 Nissan Kicks ranked #7 in Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Nissan Kicks has a score of 7.9 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 10 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent fuel economy Low base price Plenty of standard and optional features Ample cargo space
Cons Somewhat weak engine Rear seats don't fold flat
The 2018 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque gets a new lease on life this year with a good powertrain upgrade that helps it stay competitive. Of course, its looks help too.
Pros Stunning exterior shape Better powertrain this year Power bump on top trims One of the few SUV convertibles on the road
Cons for good reason Not all that practical Aged structure Cramped rear seat
The 2018 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque ranked #6 in Luxury Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque has a score of 7.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 48 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent off-roader Powerful engines Agile handling High-quality cabin
Cons High price Below-average fuel economy Jerky transmission
For 2018, the Evoque's biggest updates happen under the hood. The new base engine is slightly less powerful than last year's model, but the Evoque now offers a higher-output, 286-horsepower version as an option on some trim levels. The two-door coupe has been discontinued, though the convertible remains.
PROS Striking exterior and interior design Available convertible variant is the only one of its kind Fun to drive
CONS Premium pricing compared to subcompact competitors Not a lot of backseat space Limited visibility, especially for the convertible
