2019 Nissan Kicks

Introduced for 2018, the Nissan Kicks replaced the Juke at the subcompact end of the brand's crossover range. It also moves Nissan into the small crossover mainstream, ditching the Juke's weird styling and sporty drive with a more conventional look and a lot less performance.

For 2019, the?Kicks?is carried over with no significant changes.

Power is from a 1.6L four-cylinder engine that makes 122 hp and 114 lb-ft of torque. The only transmission is a continuously variable automatic (CVT) and, surprisingly, considering its crossover label, there is no AWD option. All Kicks models are front-drivers.

That there is no manual transmission option in a vehicle that starts around $18,000 is yet another indication of the waning interest in driver involvement. That said, considering the percentage of car buyers who opt for automatics now, it makes the Kicks a solid value for budget-oriented buyers.

With the Kicks, Nissan competes with vehicles like the Toyota CH-R, which is similar for its exclusively front-drive layout. There's a hint of the old Juke in the way the Kicks' shape tapers toward the rear, which helps keep things interesting. Ultimately, both the Kicks and the CH-R look more interesting than they drive, but their neat styling is a good reminder that inexpensive cars need not appear dull.

Kicks trim levels are S, SV and SR.

Standard features include 16-inch steel wheels with covers, fog lights, power-adjustable side mirrors, a 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, air conditioning, power windows and locks with keyless entry, cruise control, tilt-and-telescopic steering, manual front seat adjustments with a six-way driver's seat and a six-speaker stereo. The only advanced safety items included at the base level is automatic emergency braking.

SV trim adds 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, heated side mirrors, a 7.0-inch advanced drive assist display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic climate control, passive keyless entry, a cargo cover, heated front seats and satellite radio.

SR brings LED headlights, remote engine start, Prima-Tex seat upholstery and a Bose sound system with front-seat headrest speakers. The SR model adds safety kit in blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert.

Nissan's fuel consumption estimates for the Kicks are 7.7/6.6 L/100 km (city/highway).