Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV. This spunky little SUV has been making waves, and we're here to give you the lowdown on everything it offers. From its fuel efficiency and compact size to its tech features and overall value, we’ll cover all the bases. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

Overview of the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV

The 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV is Nissan's entry into the subcompact SUV market, designed for urban dwellers and first-time car buyers. It's all about offering practicality, style, and affordability in one neat package. The "S" trim represents the base model, but don't let that fool you – it still packs a punch with a decent array of standard features. Under the hood, you'll find a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that prioritizes fuel efficiency over raw power. This makes it an excellent choice for those who spend a lot of time commuting or running errands around town. The exterior design is youthful and modern, with Nissan’s signature V-motion grille and a floating roof design that gives it a distinctive look. Inside, the Kicks offers a surprisingly spacious cabin with comfortable seating for five and a good amount of cargo space for its class. Standard tech features include a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and essential safety features like automatic emergency braking. Overall, the 2019 Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV is a well-rounded option for anyone looking for a budget-friendly and practical SUV.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's break down the key features and specs that make the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV stand out. First off, the engine is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder, producing around 125 horsepower and 115 lb-ft of torque. While it's not going to win any races, it provides adequate power for city driving and decent fuel economy. Speaking of fuel economy, the Kicks shines here, offering an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. This makes it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class. The transmission is a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to maximize fuel efficiency by keeping the engine in its optimal power range. Inside, the Kicks 1.6 S comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Safety features include automatic emergency braking, which can help prevent or mitigate collisions. Other notable features include keyless entry, power windows and locks, and air conditioning. The cargo area offers 25.3 cubic feet of space with the rear seats up, which expands to 53.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down. This is plenty of room for groceries, luggage, or weekend getaway gear. The Kicks also boasts a comfortable and ergonomic interior design, with well-placed controls and easy-to-read gauges. All in all, the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV offers a compelling package of features and specs for its price point.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV is designed with urban driving in mind. The 1.6-liter engine delivers adequate power for navigating city streets and merging onto highways. While it's not the fastest SUV on the market, it provides a smooth and responsive driving experience. The CVT transmission plays a significant role in optimizing fuel efficiency, but it can sometimes feel a bit sluggish during acceleration. However, it does a good job of keeping the engine in its sweet spot, resulting in impressive gas mileage. The Kicks handles well in tight spaces, thanks to its compact size and responsive steering. It's easy to maneuver in parking lots and urban environments. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride over bumps and imperfections in the road. Body roll is minimal, and the Kicks feels stable and planted on the road. The brakes are responsive and provide good stopping power. Overall, the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV is a competent and enjoyable daily driver. It's not a performance-oriented vehicle, but it excels in providing a comfortable, efficient, and practical driving experience for urban commuters and city dwellers. The light steering and nimble handling make it easy to live with, and the excellent fuel economy is a major plus for those who spend a lot of time behind the wheel.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV, you'll find a cabin that prioritizes comfort and user-friendly technology. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on longer drives. The interior design is modern and functional, with well-placed controls and easy-to-read gauges. The standard 7-inch touchscreen display is intuitive and responsive, providing access to essential features like Bluetooth connectivity and a rearview camera. The infotainment system is straightforward to use, with clear graphics and logical menus. While the base "S" trim doesn't offer advanced features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, it does provide the basic connectivity you need to stay connected on the go. The Kicks offers ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, making it a comfortable option for families or groups of friends. The cargo area is also surprisingly spacious for a subcompact SUV, with plenty of room for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. Noise levels are well-controlled, creating a quiet and relaxing cabin environment. The air conditioning system is effective at keeping the interior cool on hot days. Overall, the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior for its price point. The focus on user-friendly technology and practical features makes it a great choice for daily commuting and urban adventures.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV has you covered with a range of standard features designed to protect you and your passengers. One of the most important safety features is automatic emergency braking, which can help prevent or mitigate collisions by automatically applying the brakes if it detects an imminent crash. This is a valuable feature, especially in busy urban environments where accidents are more likely to occur. The Kicks also comes standard with a rearview camera, which makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier and safer. Other standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full suite of airbags. While the base "S" trim doesn't offer advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring or rear cross-traffic alert, it does provide the essential safety equipment you need for peace of mind. The Kicks has also performed well in crash tests, earning good ratings from reputable safety organizations. This further reinforces its commitment to safety and occupant protection. Overall, the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV offers a solid array of safety features for its class. The inclusion of automatic emergency braking as standard equipment is a significant plus, making it a safe and reliable choice for drivers of all ages.

Fuel Efficiency and MPG

One of the standout features of the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV is its exceptional fuel efficiency. With an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, the Kicks is one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class. This makes it an ideal choice for commuters and city dwellers who want to save money on gas. The 1.6-liter engine and CVT transmission work together to maximize fuel economy, providing a smooth and efficient driving experience. The Kicks also features aerodynamic design elements that help to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. Real-world fuel economy often matches or even exceeds the EPA estimates, depending on driving conditions and habits. This means you can expect to spend less time and money at the gas pump, which is a significant advantage for budget-conscious buyers. The Kicks also has a relatively small fuel tank, but its excellent fuel economy means you can still go a long distance between fill-ups. Overall, the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV is a fuel-sipping champion, offering impressive gas mileage that rivals many compact cars. If fuel efficiency is a top priority, the Kicks is definitely worth considering.

Pricing and Value

When it comes to pricing and value, the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV offers a compelling package that's hard to beat. As the base trim level, the "S" model is the most affordable option in the Kicks lineup, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers. Despite its low price, the Kicks 1.6 S still comes with a decent array of standard features, including a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and automatic emergency braking. This provides excellent value for the money, as you're getting essential safety and technology features without breaking the bank. The Kicks also offers low ownership costs, thanks to its excellent fuel efficiency and affordable maintenance. Insurance rates are also typically lower than those of larger SUVs, further reducing your overall expenses. The Kicks holds its value well over time, making it a smart investment for the long term. Overall, the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV is a great value proposition, offering a combination of affordability, features, and fuel efficiency that's hard to match. If you're looking for a budget-friendly SUV that doesn't compromise on quality or features, the Kicks is definitely worth a look.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's take a look at the pros and cons of the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV.

Pros:

• Excellent fuel efficiency (31 mpg city/36 mpg highway)
• Affordable price point
• Standard automatic emergency braking
• Spacious cargo area for its class
• User-friendly technology
• Comfortable and ergonomic interior

Cons:

• Engine lacks power for some drivers
• CVT transmission can feel sluggish
• No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on the base "S" trim
• Missing some advanced safety features on the base model

Overall, the pros outweigh the cons for most buyers, especially those who prioritize fuel efficiency, affordability, and practicality. The Kicks is a great choice for urban commuters, first-time car buyers, and anyone looking for a budget-friendly SUV.

Conclusion: Is the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV Right for You?

So, is the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV the right vehicle for you? If you're looking for an affordable, fuel-efficient, and practical SUV for urban driving, the answer is likely yes. The Kicks offers a compelling combination of features, value, and style that's hard to beat in its class. While it may not be the most powerful or luxurious SUV on the market, it excels in providing a comfortable, safe, and efficient driving experience for daily commuting and city adventures. The standard automatic emergency braking is a major plus, and the user-friendly technology makes it easy to stay connected on the go. The spacious cargo area is also a bonus, providing plenty of room for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. If you're willing to sacrifice some power and advanced features for a lower price and better fuel economy, the Kicks is definitely worth considering. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the 2019 Nissan Kicks 1.6 S Direct SUV is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it fits your needs and lifestyle. Happy driving!