2025 Nissan Kicks Declares War On Rising Car Prices

Earlier this year, Nissan introduced the all-new Kicks, a compact crossover with funky styling, more power than its predecessor, and available all-wheel drive. Pricing is yet to be revealed, but Nissan has said the MSRP will remain the same as the old model. The Kicks will not only try to capture the attention of crossover buyers but also attempt to lure value-minded sedan shoppers.

Speaking to Automotive News, Nissan USA Vice President Scott Shirley explained the predicament Nissan and car buyers find themselves in: “For the average sedan consumer, the choices are not what they used to be. Affordability is a challenge.” The affordable Versa will reportedly end production in 2025, leaving just the Sentra to soak up sales. The Maxima was killed off last year, and the Altima will also be retired soon.

Kicks Will Appeal To Budget-Conscious Sedan Buyers

While the Maxima and Altima cater to mainstream consumers, the Versa is a truly affordable option with a $16,680 starting price. While the new Kicks won’t be as wallet-friendly, Shirley said Nissan has “held the line on price,” adding that the base MSRP is “very much in the compact sedan” range. As a reminder, the outgoing Kicks has a starting price of $21,340, and Nissan plans on an increase of less than $500, which means the new model will cost less than $22,000. That’s about the same as a new Sentra ($21,180).

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The new Kicks crossover will target consumers who previously wouldn’t consider the body style due to cost. Tyler Slade, the chairman of the Nissan National Dealer Advisory Board, told AN that affordable crossovers will be the new entry point for multiple automakers. “The compact sedan used to be the entry segment. But Americans are thirsty for SUVs, so budget crossovers have become the new entry point for brands.”

Available AWD Will Increase Sales

Aside from the attractive styling and more powerful 141-horsepower 2.0-liter engine, Nissan will bolster appeal by introducing optional all-wheel drive. Since the Rogue Sport was discontinued, Nissan hasn’t been able to offer a compact AWD crossover – something rival brands like Toyota, Kia, and Hyundai can. AWD will cost $1,500, but despite this, the take rate is expected to be more than 50%.

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Kicks equipped with AWD receive a snow-driving mode that helps the driver maintain control on slippery roads. Judy Wheeler, Vice President of Nissan Sales & Regional Operations, said the introduction of AWD could increase sales by 38% by making it a genuine choice for customers in the Midwest and Northeast. Given that the Sentra and Versa aren’t available with all-wheel drive, the affordable Kicks AWD will appeal to plenty more budget-conscious shoppers who need the traction of all-wheel drive.

Will The Kicks Win Over The Sedan Faithful?

As people struggle to make ends meet, many consumers are downsizing, which includes purchasing a smaller vehicle. While they’re happy to get into something more compact, they don’t necessarily want to sacrifice safety or comfort features. A new, desirable, and affordable crossover is just what Nissan needs. It’s been a while since the automaker added a new entry-level car to its lineup, which is sorely needed. Whether the Kicks will be able to convince traditional sedan buyers remains to be seen, but we’re guessing Nissan dealers will be delighted to receive the Kicks when it arrives in the summer of 2024.

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Automotive News