Nissan's smallest crossover receives a styling update for 2021 which includes a larger grille, streamlined headlamps and taillamps, redesigned front and rear bumpers, and a new 17-inch aluminum wheel design. Nissan has also expanded the availability of the contrasting black roof option to cars painted in Scarlet Ember Tintcoat, Boulder Gray Pearl, and Electric Blue Metallic. Inside, SV and SR models now come with a new 8.0-inch infotainment system, and all Kicks trims now feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.A Wi-Fi hotspot is now available as an option on the top spec SR trim.
PROS Peppy around town, spacious cabin, generous standard equipment.
CONS Anemic at highway speeds, engine sounds thrashy at high revs, a few more storage cubbies wouldn't hurt.
The 2021 Nissan Kicks's #5 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the Nissan Kicks has a score of 7.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 32 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
PROS Plenty of standard features Good cargo space for the class Excellent fuel economy
CONS Lackluster highway acceleration All-wheel drive not offered Worst predicted reliability score in the class
For 2021 Restyled exterior, Mild upgrades to cabin materials, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration now standard.
PROS Comes standard with lots of advanced driver aids Affordably priced High fuel economy Easy-to-use controls
CONS Leisurely acceleration Uncomfortable seats Not much rear legroom No optional all-wheel drive
The 2021 Hyundai Kona's #1 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the Hyundai Kona has a score of 8.3 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 22 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
PROS Upscale cabin Easy-to-use infotainment system Energetic turbocharged engine available Poised handling and comfortable ride
CONS Rear seats less spacious than rivals’ Subpar maximum cargo capacity
“Wilfully odd-looking small SUV is actually fun to drive. It's the Nissan Juke's worthy heir ”
PROS Refined mild-hybrid powertrain, and handles better than it strictly needs to
CONS Hybrid gets expensive. Looks weird (even weirder than before) but then you might like that
The hybrid version has low CO2 emissions on its side, but otherwise the Kona is outclassed by the many other small SUVs available to choose from at this price. The Ford Puma is more fun, the T-Roc more comfortable and the Skoda Kamiq more practical.
PROS Low CO2 emissions (Hybrid) Generous standard kit Good infotainment system
CONS Bumpy ride Not very practical So-so performance of the 1.0 T-GDi
