The 2019 Kicks front wheel drive compact crossover vehicle is virtually unchanged from its 2018 debut. That’s not a bad thing. Nissan Kicks conveys its fun side visually with choice of five, two-tone exterior paint combinations, or seven single colors. While the 103.1-inch wheelbase utility vehicle earns bragging rights with good fuel economy, the mpg numbers come at a performance cost -- namely quick acceleration. That tardiness was especially notable during on-ramp expressway traffic merging throughout a week-long test drive.

Powering the Kicks is a third-generation 1.6-liter 4-cylinder releasing 125 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 115 lbs-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. Engine mates to a Xtronic continuously variable transmission. Standard safety features on all model trims (S, SV, and SR) include automatic emergency braking with forward collision warning, rearview monitor, and seven airbags. The available Intelligent Around View Monitor serves up a handy visual assist for parking maneuvers via dashboard display views of the vehicle’s position and the surroundings. Tested Nissan Kicks SR collects mpg of 31 city and 36 highway and carries a base MSRP of $20,870.