If you’re in the market for an affordable, brand-new SUV, you can kick things up a notch with the 2021 Nissan Kicks SR. The SR is the highest trim level of the Nissan Kicks, and it includes more value-packed features to enjoy. 

Is the 2021 Nissan Kicks SR worth buying? 

Yes, the 2021 Nissan Kicks SR is an excellent SUV option with a great look and performance that won’t break the bank. The base model of the Nissan Kicks starts at about $19,500, and the SR begins at around $21,990. 

So for about $2,490, you get a few premium upgrades that primarily enhance the way the vehicle looks. You get a dark chrome grille, fog lights, LED headlights with LED signature accents, a sliver exterior door trim, and a rear roof spoiler. You also get body-color inserts on the front and rear bumper with High-Gloss Black colored mirrors with integrated turn signals. 

The interior includes Black Prima-Tex accents with orange stitching, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, shift knob, and sport cloth seat trim with orange accents and stitching. It provides a more vibrant and luxurious feel. 

How does the Kicks SR perform? 

Each trim level of the Nissan Kicks comes with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that provides 122 hp and 114 lb-ft of torque. According to Edmunds, the Kicks can accelerate from o to 60 mph in about 10.7 seconds. 

Despite not having the fastest acceleration, the 2022 Nissan Kicks SR has smooth, reliable braking. The suspension is very responsive and maintains composure. Also, the sporty handling provides fun on curvy roads. 

The Kicks provides a smooth ride over most surfaces and does well at limiting wind noise. Road noise can enter the cabin at highway speeds, but it’s not too noticeable. You may want to opt for the SR for increased seating comfort. 

Unfortunately, the Nissan Kicks isn’t recommended for towing, and it doesn’t come with all-wheel drive. But it still serves as an economical option for daily driving. It gets an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and up to 36 mpg on the highway. 

What are the Kicks SR features like? 

While lower-trim models of the Kicks get a 7.0-inch touchscreen, the 2022 Nissan Kicks SR comes with an 8.0-inch display, an extra USB port, and access to the NissanConnect telematics and concierge system. The Premium package adds a Bose stereo system and a Wi-Fi hotspot. 

You’ll find up to 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats with up to 32.3 cubic feet total. The rear seats don’t fold completely flat, there are plenty of places to store personal items, and the cupholder area can be turned into a medium-size storage cubby. 

Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane departure warning. The optional adaptive cruise control works well at keeping you at a proper distance from the traffic ahead, and the surround-view parking system helps you navigate through tight city areas. 

The Nissan Kicks SR provides more value with this economical SUV option. It may not be the biggest or most spacious ride, but it includes plenty of great tech, style, and comfort for daily driving.