Is the 2021 Nissan Kicks a good car?
An honest AI verdict — reliability, common problems, and real cost to own.
B7.5/10
The Nissan Kicks is great for urban driving, given its fuel economy and compact design. However, if motorway performance is essential, consider alternatives.
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Pros
- Impressive fuel efficiency
- Affordable pricing
- Ample cargo space for its size
Cons
- Modest engine performance
- Limited advanced safety features
- Interior quality could be better
Ownership at a glance
Fuel economy
31 mpg
Maintenance cost
$2,500/yr
Expected lifespan
150,000 miles
Common problems to watch for
- Transmission hesitancy
- Infotainment glitches
- Occasional electrical issues
CarsJudge exclusive data
Active recalls (2)
The 2021 Nissan Kicks has 2 NHTSA recalls on record. Most recent: Steering — Electric Power Assist System (campaign 23V496000). All recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.
- Steering — Electric Power Assist System — Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021 Versa and Kicks vehicles. An intermittent electrical connection in the electric power steering (EPS) torque sensor can disable the power steering assist.…
- Steering — Electric Power Assist System — Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021 Versa and Kicks vehicles. An intermittent electrical connection in the electric power steering (EPS) torque sensor can disable the power steering assist.…
Recall data: NHTSA. Owner costs & MPG: anonymized aggregates from CarsJudge users who track this vehicle. Updated 2026-07-05.
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This AI-generated assessment is general guidance only, not a substitute for a professional inspection. Always inspect a used vehicle before purchase.