Nissan Kicks vs the New Kicks Play: A Closer Look

May 08 2025,

Nissan Kicks vs the New Kicks Play: A Closer Look

At Southside Nissan in Vancouver, BC, we understand how important it is to find a vehicle that fits your lifestyle. The 2025 Nissan Kicks and the new Kicks Play are both stylish and smart compact SUVs, but they offer different strengths. Whether you're a daily commuter or a weekend adventurer, comparing these two models will help you choose the one that matches your needs best.


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Power and Performance Showdown

The 2025 Nissan Kicks is equipped with a new 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 141 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the Kicks Play features a 1.6-litre DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine, producing 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. The upgrade in Nissan Kicks provides a more responsive driving experience, especially beneficial for highway merging and city driving. Additionally, the Kicks now offers available all-wheel drive, enhancing traction in various weather conditions. While Kicks Play maintains an efficient and smooth performance suitable for urban environments, it lacks the power boost and all-wheel-drive option found in the standard Kicks. For those seeking enhanced performance and versatility, the 2025 Nissan Kicks stands out with its more powerful engine and available all-wheel drive.

Space to Stretch and Relax

The 2025 Nissan Kicks offers impressive flexibility with up to 1,500 litres of cargo space when the rear seats are folded, making it ideal for groceries, luggage, or gear for a weekend trip. It seats five comfortably and features cloth seats with Zero Gravity design for better support. The cabin is airy and functional, perfect for everyday use. Meanwhile, the Kicks Play also seats five and features 60/40-split rear seats for added cargo flexibility, but specific cargo space figures are not listed, suggesting slightly less capacity than the standard Kicks. The seats are finished in durable cloth upholstery, offering comfort but not the ergonomic design of Zero Gravity seats. For shoppers who prioritize space and comfort, the 2025 Nissan Kicks takes the lead with more room and better seating support.

Tech That Elevates Your Drive

Inside the 2025 Kicks, you'll find a modern and tech-friendly cabin. It includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen display on higher trims, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charger, and up to 10 premium Bose speakers for immersive sound. It also comes with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, fog lights, heated mirrors, and keyless entry with push-button ignition. The Kicks Play includes a smaller touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and essential tech features like Bluetooth and USB ports. However, it lacks premium upgrades like a wireless charger or a Bose sound system. For those who want more advanced features and premium touches, the 2025 Nissan Kicks offers a more connected and comfortable interior experience.

Safety Features for Peace of Mind

The 2025 Kicks puts safety first with Nissan Safety Shield 360, which includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist, and Rear Automatic Braking. Higher trims also offer ProPILOT Assist for semi-autonomous driving support. The Kicks Play also includes many of the same safety features such as Emergency Braking and Blind Spot Warning, but it does not offer ProPILOT Assist or the full suite found in the upper trims of the Kicks. If you're looking for the most complete set of safety technologies, the 2025 Nissan Kicks provides better peace of mind with more advanced driver assistance features.

Choose the Kicks That Fits You

Both the 2025 Nissan Kicks and Kicks Play bring style, safety, and convenience to your drive, but they cater to slightly different needs. The Kicks Play is a solid option for urban drivers who want simplicity, efficiency, and essential features. On the other hand, the 2025 Nissan Kicks steps up with more power, roomier cargo space, better technology, and advanced safety tools. If you're looking for a compact SUV that offers more of everything, the 2025 Kicks is the smarter choice. Visit Southside Nissan in Vancouver, BC to explore both models in person. Book your test drive today and find out which one feels just right for you.

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