2025 Honda HR-V vs 2025 Nissan Kicks

For years, compact SUVs were the smallest models available in the SUV segment, known for their easy drivability and exceptional efficiency. It seemed as though these vehicles were the go-to options for everyday commuters—until they weren’t. When subcompact SUVs came onto the scene, it was quickly apparent that they had something big to add to the automotive industry. Not only did they drive almost identically to sedans, which made it easy to jump into the SUV lifestyle, but they were also even more fuel efficient, thus appealing to daily commuters everywhere. Honda jumped at this opportunity, releasing the HR-V for the 2016 model year, while Nissan wasn’t too far behind with its Kicks model, which made its debut in 2018.

Much has changed over the years, but some things remain the same—subcompact SUVs are still a great choice for today’s busy travelers. When comparing the 2025 Honda HR-V vs 2025 Nissan Kicks, it’s apparent that both small-size commuters have something major to add to the ride in the areas of performance, design, and technology. Here at Ralph Honda, we want to see local drivers traveling in vehicles that they can count on, and when it comes to subcompact SUVs, the HR-V and the Kicks are excellent options. But which option offers the better ride? Let’s find out.

Small-size travelers, like the 2025 Honda HR-V and 2025 Nissan Kicks, are known to be easy to maneuver and great on gas, but how exciting are they on the open road? Well, the HR-V offers the ideal blend of refinement and excitement, powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder engine that’s mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is the same powertrain found in many Honda Civic models. This lively engine makes 158 hp to create a compelling ride, and with a MacPherson strut front suspension, the HR-V proves to be agile and precise on the open road as it zips through traffic without worry. Pair this with the smooth CVT, and you’ve got a recipe for success when it comes to your daily drive.

The Kicks is also armed with a 2.0L four-cylinder, which is also paired with a CVT; however, it doesn’t offer as exciting of a ride as what you’ll find with the HR-V. This new engine setup makes 141 hp, which is a boost from prior model years, but it’s still nothing to be over the moon about, especially when you want a little power in your ride on the way home from a long day at work. If you want a little more thrill during your commute, the HR-V offers it—and so much more.

The HR-V showcases some additional features designed to heighten the feel of the ride, like available Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System, which helps you tackle unsavory terrain with the utmost confidence. By using advanced sensors, the HR-V can apply the right amount of torque to the rear wheels at the perfect time, allowing you to take advantage of maximum stability, no matter what type of surface you’re sailing over. If that surface happens to be snow, rest assured that the HR-V can handle it with a dedicated Snow Mode that reduces the amount of wheel slippage when traveling on snowy roads and reduces pedal sensitivity so that you can take on snowy terrain safely. The HR-V also offers standard Hill Descent Control, which helps you coast through steep environments with unmatched control.

The Kicks can hold its own during inclement weather and on uneven terrain as well, especially now that it can be equipped with all-wheel drive capabilities for the first time ever. It also showcases drive modes to help elevate the feel of the ride, regardless of the condition of the terrain. However, this doesn’t make up for the fact that the Kicks isn’t nearly as fun to drive, with inadequate power coming out of its engine, unfortunately making that mundane drive to work all the more unsatisfying.

Stepping inside a subcompact SUV for the first time, you may be mesmerized by the favorable amount of space for all your passengers and gear. Contrary to what you might think, subcompact models are actually very accommodating, with more space for people and cargo than sedans have to offer. Plus, when you opt for a model like the 2025 Honda HR-V, you’ll find that you’re surrounded by contemporary appointments that help make the most of all your journeys. Choosing a top-of-the-line trim allows you to enjoy premium appointments, like leather-trimmed body-stabilizing seats, a one-touch power moonroof, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and eight-way power-adjustable seating to enhance comfort on board. Its honeycomb-designed dashboard gives a sporty flair to this Honda favorite, and opting for the Sport trim allows you to take advantage of more exciting elements, including black appointments with orange accent stitching.

Like the HR-V, the 2025 Nissan Kicks offers a pleasant interior, especially when you spring for a higher-level trim so that you can enjoy more premium appointments throughout. A flat-bottom steering wheel gives the Kicks a sportier appeal, while Zero Gravity seats allow you to get cozy behind the wheel. However, it’s missing some of the features of the HR-V, with synthetic leatherette seating instead of real leather and no option for power seats. It’s also important to note that the creature comforts it does offer can only be enjoyed in the more expensive trims, as base-level trims are sparser in appearance and may not offer you the comfort features you require during your daily commute.

It’s evident that the HR-V and Kicks exhibit different styles, as the HR-V is more contemporary and modern, while the Kicks is a bit more quirky and spunky. Although its latest models are more grown-up, the Kicks still shows off carefree vibes, which doesn’t always jive with every driver. The HR-V, on the other hand, radiates refinement with eye-catching bodywork and a honeycomb grille that instantly captivates you.

Opt for the Sport trim and enjoy enhanced athleticism with 18-inch gloss-black wheels, a gloss-black grille, and exclusive badging to make a striking statement wherever you travel. You’ll even get to enjoy a sleek rear spoiler—a tribute to Honda’s racing roots and the brand’s talent for engineering greatness. In the end, it all comes down to personal preference; if you want to enjoy a more sophisticated design, the HR-V may be perfect for you.

From multiple touchscreen sizes to wireless smartphone integration, the 2025 Honda HR-V has it all to make your ride more connected than ever. A high-definition touchscreen provides you with all you need while you travel, whether you’re listening to a podcast, making calls, or accessing some of your must-have apps on the go. Top-level trims add a wireless charging pad to keep your device powered up during the journey. Download the HondaLink app and remain in tune with your vehicle, checking fuel range, scheduling service appointments, and more with just the swipe of your finger. An available Wi-Fi hotspot allows you to connect to your day seamlessly, even while in traffic, and with an eight-speaker audio system, any ride will feel more enjoyable with your favorite tunes playing clearly.

Like the HR-V, the 2025 Nissan Kicks showcases a selection of touchscreens; however, these screens are a bit low on the dash, which can affect visibility and convenience. The Kicks is also missing some valuable features, like a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote access via an app. Despite this, the Kicks offers a nice menu of tech features, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Bose audio system, and more available features as you move up the trim levels.

While the 2025 Kicks is an IIHS Top Safety Pick, the 2025 HR-V is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+.^[b] This is the highest rating the organization awards, allowing you to feel completely at ease behind the wheel, knowing that your vehicle is undeniably secure. The HR-V is equipped with Honda Sensing, which provides you with a suite of features to help you remain safe on the road ahead. From Lane Departure Warning and a Lane Keeping Assist System to Adaptive Cruise Control and other helpful tech, the HR-V ensures that you’re protected during your ride. You can also enjoy a Blind Spot Information System to keep you aware of hard-to-see areas, as well as a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera to see better behind you.

You can take advantage of parking sensors to help you park like a pro, even in some of the most challenging spots available. With a Collision Mitigation Braking System and Road Departure Mitigation System, your HR-V makes sure that you remain as safe as possible, no matter what pops up during your journey. You’ll find many similar features inside the Nissan Kicks, especially since it’s armed with its own safety suite, which is called Nissan Safety Shield 360. To sum it up, both vehicles are abundantly safe; however, the HR-V’s safety features are a bit more robust, allowing it to earn a higher rating from the IIHS.

No matter which type of vehicle you’re looking for, rest assured that you’ll be able to find it in Honda’s inventory. If the 2025 Honda HR-V has piqued your interest, you’ll be happy to know that here at Ralph Honda, we have a fabulous selection of HR-V models just waiting to impress you. In addition, our team is well-versed and experienced in the respected Honda legacy, allowing you to have complete confidence in your purchase.

Financing is made easy as well, with a variety of loan and lease options, fair pricing, flexible payment plans, and convenient tools that you’re able to utilize on our website. If you want to elevate your daily commute, you’ll want to be riding in the HR-V, and when you want an exceptional car-buying experience, you’ll want to shop right here at Ralph Honda. Get ready to maximize your daily drive; it all starts with the right vehicle leading the way!

^{______________________________}

^[a]MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $1,350 destination charge for 2024 models and $1,395 destination charge for 2025 models, and accessories. Dealer prices may vary. MSRP does not include $455 charge for premium colors.
^[b]The 2025 Honda HR-V received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. For more information, visit the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety at iihs.org. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is a registered trademark of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.