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In today’s world of expensive cars, finding a cheap SUV might seem impossible. But some brands are still committed to offering vehicles that don’t break the bank. Nissan is an automaker that is doing just that with the 2023 Nissan Kicks SUV. The Nissan Kicks has a starting MSRP of just $20,290, and that makes it one of the cheaper new SUVs on the market. 

What is the Nissan Kicks comparable to?

The Nissan Kicks competes with SUVs like the Mazda CX-30, Hyundai Kona, and the Kia Soul. Where the 2023 Kicks excels is its pricing. It might not be as cheap as the Soul, but it does offer more traditional SUV styling.

Even though the Kicks is a budget SUV, it does offer popular features. These include things like standard lane-departure warning and automatic emergency braking. You also get a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen. And for around $20,000, that is fairly impressive. 

Almost every 2023 Kicks trim is cheap

The new Nissan Kicks is available in three distinct trim levels. And each trim is priced at under $25k. Of course, with optional equipment, this SUV can climb above $25,000, but you do not have to get the available equipment. 

An orange 2023 Nissan Kicks shows off as a cheap SUV.
Nissan Kicks | Nissan

Unfortunately, there are some drawbacks to a cheap SUV. The Kicks is not available with all-wheel drive, and each model comes outfitted with a 122-horsepower engine. Needless to say, the 2023 Nissan Kicks is not winning any capability awards. 

According to Car and Driver, this Nissan SUV can be fun to drive. The suspension is tuned for everyday driving, and the steering is direct. At the same time, steering feedback could be better. And the Kicks is far from an enthusiast vehicle. 

Can you get a Nissan Kicks with a leather interior?

The 2023 Kicks is available with a synthetic leather interior. It also boasts an available leather-wrapped steering wheel. If you live in a place with colder weather, this cheap SUV can also be had with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. And that should add to overall driver and passenger comfort. 

If you want a new SUV, cargo space will likely play a factor. The 2023 Kicks matches most of its rivals in terms of storage, with 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. The rear seats are 60/40 as well, so you can make room for larger objects. 

Is Nissan’s cheap SUV worth it?

If you are on a budget, the 2023 Nissan Kicks can make a good option. There are certainly plenty of competitors in this segment, so it does come down to personal preference. It is pretty clear that in recent years, Nissan has been improving its design and interior quality.

A blue 2023 Nissan Kicks SUV sits on the side of the road.
2023 Nissan Kicks | Nissan

There are certainly some compromises with an SUV this cheap. But if you’re on a budget and want a new vehicle, options might be limited. Just don’t expect true luxury features or the performance of an SUV that is more expensive than the 2023 Nissan Kicks.