As a newcomer to the compact crossover utility segment, the 2018 Nissan Kicks will get noticed. But this front wheel drive vehicle truly deserves attention for its style, cargo space, intelligent safety technology, and interior quietness--handled by an acoustic windshield, floor insulators, rear wheelhouse liners and other noise treatments. Kicks is sold in three trims (S, SV, and SR), and all models come with standard automatic emergency braking with forward collision warning, a rearview monitor, and seven airbags. A week-long test drive showcased this CUV’s handling (front strut suspension with stabilizer bar/rear twist beam suspension with stabilizer bar and twin-tube shock absorbers), comfortable ride, and turning radius (34.1-foot).

Kicks is powered by a third-generation 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 125 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 115 pounds-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine mates to an Xtronic continuously variable transmission. The 103.1-inch wheelbase CUV provides ample rear legroom (33.2 inches). With rear seat upright, the cargo space tallies 25.3 cubic feet. That cargo space increases to 53.1 cubic feet with rear seat folded. Kicks is offered with seven exterior colors, plus five two-tone combinations. The tested Kicks SV carries a base MSRP of $19,690 and collects estimated mpg of 31 city/36 highway.