2023 Nissan Kicks vs. 2022 Nissan Rogue Sport: Which Small SUV Wins?
After Nissan discontinued the Rogue Sport, the Kicks SUV is the automaker’s only entry in the subcompact SUV class. The Rogue Sport is a smaller version of the popular Rogue, and interested buyers can still order a new 2022 model. So, is the retired Nissan Rogue Sport worth considering over the Nissan Kicks? Let’s find out.
| 2023 Nissan Kicks | 2022 Nissan Rogue Sport | |
| Base Price | $20,790 | $24,960 |
| Engine | 1.6-liter four-cylinder | 2.0-liter four-cylinder |
| Horsepower + Torque | 122 hp, 114 lb-ft | 141 hp, 147 lb-ft |
| Transmission + Drivetrain | CVT, FWD | CVT, FWD (AWD optional) |
| Fuel efficiency | 31/36 mpg city/highway | 25/32 mpg (FWD), 24/30 mpg (AWD) |
| Cargo Capacity | 25.3/32.3 cubic feet (seats up/down) | 22.9/61.1, 20/53.3 cubic feet (seats up/down) |
| Safety Rating | 4 out of 5 stars (NHTSA) | 4 stars for FWD model, 5 stars for AWD model (NHTSA) |
2023 Nissan Kicks vs. 2022 Nissan Rogue Sport: Driving and performance
Subcompact SUVs typically don’t have comfortable underpinnings, but the 2023 Nissan Kicks has a serene ride quality. Its handling can be lively at times, but it still needs about 10 seconds to reach highway speeds. You’ll hear the engine complain about the extra effort, but the continuously variable transmission (CVT) is reserved.
Even with 19 additional horses, the Rogue Sport is somehow even slower than the Kicks. The engine is also noisy, though its ride quality remains smooth throughout daily driving. However, the Rogue Sport’s added weight makes it less agile in turns.
2023 Nissan Kicks vs. 2022 Nissan Rogue Sport: Interior and tech
These small Nissan SUVs can seat five passengers in cabins with primarily black color schemes. The Rogue Sport’s elevated seating position provides excellent outward visibility. Likewise, the Kicks also offers good visibility with its wide windshield and lower dashboard. Both the 2023 Nissan Kicks and 2022 Rogue Sport have accommodating second rows with over 33 inches of legroom.
Depending on the trim level, the 2023 Nissan Kicks has a 7.0- or 8.0-inch touchscreen. Every trim has smartphone integration and a full safety suite that includes automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitors. The highest trim boasts a Premium package, adding heated seats and a Bose sound system with headrest speakers.
Meanwhile, the 2022 Nissan Rogue Sport’s base technology features are similar. It also provides a bevy of advanced driver safety systems. In addition, the SL trim has built-in navigation, which isn’t available for the Kicks.
2023 Nissan Kicks vs. 2022 Nissan Rogue Sport: Trim levels and features
The 2023 Nissan Kicks S trim has cloth seats and push-button start alongside all its standard tech features. The SV adds driver attention monitors and adaptive cruise control to the safety suite. This trim is the first level where the larger touchscreen, as well as a digital instrument cluster, appears. Additionally, the SR model gains a rear spoiler, LED headlights, and leather seats. That trim starts at only $22,650.
The 2022 Rogue Sport S has the highest cargo capacity among this SUV’s three trims, but the other two benefit from Nissan’s Divide-N-Hide storage management system. This collection of dividing shelves can be placed horizontally or vertically on the load floor. Nissan gave the Rogue Sport SV upgraded cloth upholstery with heated front seats. ProPilot Assist, road sign detection, and leather seats are standard in the top-tier SL for as little as $29,590.
Which affordable Nissan SUV is the right fit for you?
These two small Nissan SUVs are similar, but we can see why only the Kicks remains in production stateside. This model has refreshingly eager handling, above-average passenger capacity, and an excellent price at every trim level. However, the Rogue Sport provides more tech features, a larger cargo area, and optional all-wheel drive. Ultimately, your budget, needs, and desires will help point you in the right direction.
