The compact SUV market offers more options than ever. Recently, it seems automakers have shifted focus toward improving the small crossover segment, giving buyers plenty of good models from which to choose.
The 2025 Nissan Kicks and 2025 Mazda CX-30 represent two compelling options in the segment. On the exterior, they appear to be very different vehicles. Let’s take a closer look at these competing SUVs.
2025 Nissan Kicks
The Nissan Kicks enjoys a full redesign for 2025, adding more interior space and available all-wheel drive (AWD) in the process. The upper two trims also come with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. Nissan really infused a bit of pizazz into its exterior styling, too.
Unlike the CX-30, the Kicks is a true entry-level vehicle, with pricing starting below $25,000. Fortunately, you get plenty for your money with Nissan’s most affordable SUV. First and foremost, it’s just about the largest vehicle in the segment. It also comes standard with a lot of safety and convenience tech that buyers in this segment crave but can’t always get — a big bonus for the Kicks.
Nissan Kicks Highlights
Technology: Nissan’s ProPilot Assist — available on the top-of-the-line SR trim — highlights the push to make the latest safety and convenience technology available. It takes advantage of other SR-standard advanced systems like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot intervention, and Intersection Assist, which kicks in when making a left turn across oncoming traffic.
Fewer fuel stops: One of the reasons buyers shop in this segment is fuel economy. This is a nice perk regardless of the price of gas. Delivering 31 mpg in combined city-and-highway driving is above average for the segment and hard to ignore.
Plenty of room: You’re unlikely to use the Kicks on your family vacation if there are more than four of you, but compared to the competition in this group, it’s bigger than most. It’s definitely bigger inside than the CX-30.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Kicks models for sale near you.
2025 Mazda CX-30
The Mazda CX-30 is an athletic and attractive standout in the subcompact SUV group. It’s stylish, offers excellent performance and capability, and has a tech-laden interior.
Mazda CX-30 Highlights
Big power: The CX-30’s base powerplant is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder with 191 horsepower. If you want a little more thrust from the go-pedal, the turbocharged version of that engine is available, pushing the ponies up to 250 on high-octane gas. This noticeable difference brings an element of performance to the CX-30 that the subcompact competition doesn’t match.
Options, options, options: The CX-30 can be outfitted with various upgrades as you move through the trim levels, including varying levels of safety and comfort technologies. Several appearance packages allow you to get the vehicle you want.
Safety first: A subcompact SUV is one of the smaller guys on the road; consequently, that 5-Star crash rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) offer plenty of peace of mind.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the CX-30 models for sale near you.
Similarities
Both the Nissan Kicks and Mazda CX-30 offer good fuel economy, roomy cabins, and appealing exterior styling.
Pricing
New 2025 Nissan Kicks Prices
|
$23,220 |
$22,175 |
|||
|
$25,070 |
$23,991 |
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|
$27,570 |
$26,469 |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors.
The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Nissan Kicks vehicles and vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership.
These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2025 Nissan Kicks | 2025 Mazda CX-30 | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 141 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 191 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 140 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 186 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm |
| Transmission | CVT/FWD | 6-speed automatic/AWD |
| Fuel Economy | 28 city/35 highway/31 combined mpg | 26 city/33 highway/29 combined |
| Also Available | AWD | 250-hp turbo 4-cylinder |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety Rating | Not rated | 5-Star |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 104.6 inches | 104.4 inches |
| Overall Length | 171.9 inches | 173.0 inches |
| Width | 70.9 inches | 70.7 inches |
| Height | 64.2 inches | 61.7 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 34.8 feet | 34.8 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 39.7 inches | 38.1 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 38.5 inches | 38.3 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 42.7 inches | 41.7 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 34.5 inches | 36.3 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 54.7 inches | 55.6 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 54.7 inches | 53.6 inches |
| Cargo Volume | 30.0 cubic feet | 20.2 cubic feet |
Conclusion
While they’re in the same segment, the Kicks and CX-30 have significant differences. The Kicks rings the register at roughly $3,000 less. It’s roomier and delivers better fuel economy. On the other hand, the CX-30 offers better performance and handling, plus standard all-wheel drive.
If you need to watch your bottom line but need an efficient, spacious small crossover, the Kicks is your choice. However, if space isn’t quite as important as spirited driving is, choose the Mazda CX-30.