New Hyundai Kona Vs Nissan Kicks

Price and Trim Levels

While the Hyundai Kona and the Nissan Kicks have similar starting prices, one extra trim level is available with the new Kona.

Price & Trim Levels | Hyundai Kona

• SE | $23,475
• SEL | $25,285
• N Line | $29,185
• Limited | $30,285

Price & Trim Levels | Nissan Kicks

• S | $21,775
• SV | $23,635
• SR | $24,335

Exterior & Colors

The 2023 Hyundai Kona measures 166″ L x 71″ W x 61-62″ H, with your choices of 16-, 17- or 18-inch wheels. The 2023 Nissan Kicks dimensions are 169″ L x 69″ W x 63″ H, with 16- or 17-inch wheels. With either model, you get a variety of exciting color options. 

Interior Design & Seating

Both the 2023 Hyundai Kona and Nissan Kicks include two rows of seats. Among these seats, you can fit five people, although both cabins are better for holding four occupants.

Engine

The 2023 Hyundai Kona comes standard with a 147-horsepower 2.0L four-cylinder. Otherwise, you can choose the 195-horsepower 1.6L turbo-four. The 2023 Nissan Kicks includes a 1.6-liter engine rated for 122 horsepower.

Transmission

The 2023 Hyundai Kona is equipped with a six-speed automatic when using the base motor. If you prefer the turbo-four, you get a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. In comparison, the 2023 Nissan Kicks comes with a CVT. 

Drivetrain & Suspension

Both the 2023 Hyundai Kona and Nissan Kicks include standard front-wheel drive. While you can opt for all-wheel drive with the Kona, the Kicks doesn't have that option. With available all-wheel drive, you gain more capability for driving in bad weather or across uneven terrain.

Performance & MPG

The 2023 Hyundai Kona earns 30/35 mpg with the turbo engine. In comparison, the 2023 Nissan Kicks gets 31/36 mpg. These numbers are comparable, but the Kona has a more spirited ride.

Infotainment

The 2023 Hyundai Kona comes with an 8" touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, three USB ports, and a six-speaker sound system. The 2023 Nissan Kicks comes with a 7" touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, three USB ports and a six-speaker sound system. 

Safety Features

The 2023 Hyundai Kona comes standard with a rearview camera, forward collision warning, driver drowsiness monitoring, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The 2023 Nissan Kicks includes a standard rearview camera, rear-seat alert, forward collision warning, driver attention monitoring, forward automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, pedestrian detection, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

0 - 60

The 2023 Kona earns a 0-60 mph time of as little as 8.1 seconds with the base engine. Yet, the N Line can achieve the same goal within 5.3 seconds. However, the 2023 Nissan Kicks takes 9.6 seconds to hit 60 mph.

Handling

The 2023 Hyundai Kona and Nissan Kicks are both compact vehicles. You can easily maneuver through urban environments with ease, and parking is also a breeze.

Ratings & Reviews

The 2023 Hyundai Kona has received Good ratings from the IIHS. Car and Driver states, "Hyundai's junior SUV is also one of its most satisfying."  The 2023 Nissan Kicks has similar reviews from the IIHS. However, Car and Driver says, "If you're a city dweller, the Kicks' compact size and fuel-efficient powertrain will serve you nicely, but on the open road it's a less compelling proposition."