What Are the Main Differences Between the 2027 Nissan Kicks S and SR?
The main differences between the 2027 Nissan Kicks S and SR lie in interior technology, exterior styling, and driver assistance equipment. The entry-level Kicks S FWD starts at a Base MSRP of $22,790 and features 16-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, and Nissan Safety Shield 360. In contrast, the top-tier Kicks SR FWD starts at $26,990 and upgrades to 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, dual 12.3-inch displays, leatherette-appointed seat trim with sport cloth inserts, and advanced driver assist features including ProPILOT Assist and an Intelligent Around View Monitor.
Choosing between the two trims comes down to whether you prioritize pure budget efficiency or enhanced daily tech and automated driving features. While both vehicles share the same powertrain and core structural space, the cabin feel and exterior presence differ significantly on the road.
The base Kicks S delivers standard essentials for daily driving, including a NissanConnect 12.3-inch touch-screen display, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and LED headlights. It serves as an accessible entry point for buyers who want modern digital connectivity and complete active safety systems without paying for upper-tier cosmetic and convenience upgrades.
Upgrading to the Kicks SR transforms the interior into a high-tech environment. The driver sits behind a 12.3-inch digital dashboard with customizable gauges that merge visually with the central infotainment screen. Exterior enhancements include machine-finished 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, distinct LED light signatures, and painted mirror caps. Inside, passengers enjoy sport seating materials, available ambient cabin lighting, and optional premium audio.
To explore both models in person or compare trims side-by-side, visit our Gallatin showroom location or give our team a quick call to learn more about current model availability.
Table of Contents
- What Engine Powers the 2027 Nissan Kicks and How Efficient Is It?
- Which Notable Equipment and Technology Upgrades Distinguish the Kicks SR From the S?
- What Safety Features and Driver Assistance Technologies Are Standard on the S vs SR?
- What Is the Starting MSRP for the Base 2027 Nissan Kicks S and Which Trim Offers the Best Overall Value?
- How Does Cargo Space in the Nissan Kicks Compare to Competitors Like the Hyundai Kona?
- What Buyers Ask Most About the 2027 Nissan Kicks S and SR Trims
- Test Drive the 2027 Nissan Kicks at Newton Nissan of Gallatin
What Engine Powers the 2027 Nissan Kicks and How Efficient Is It?
Every 2027 Nissan Kicks is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 141 hp and 140 lb-ft of torque, mated exclusively to an Xtronic CVT. Front-wheel-drive models earn EPA fuel economy estimates of 28 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 31 mpg combined, while models equipped with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive deliver 27 mpg city / 34 mpg highway / 30 mpg combined.
Engine response is tuned for practical city driving and suburban commuting, utilizing internal engine coatings originally developed for performance applications to reduce friction and improve overall fuel economy. Features such as idle stop/start, an Eco drive mode setting, and Active Grille Shutters work continuously to optimize air intake and engine drag during highway travel.
Portland commuters navigating rural routes toward local highway corridors appreciate how the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivers smooth acceleration while maintaining steady fuel savings. The available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system constantly evaluates road surface traction, instantly sending power to the rear wheels when rain, loose gravel, or slick pavement is detected. Models equipped with all-wheel drive also upgrade to an independent multi-link rear suspension and add a dedicated Snow drive mode for enhanced road holding.
Whether you choose the S or SR trim, the powertrain architecture remains identical, meaning performance capabilities and towing restrictions do not change between trim grades. Drivers seeking an easy-to-maneuver crossover for daily travel can explore our selection at a local Hendersonville area Nissan dealer or browse our pre-owned Nissan Kicks inventory to evaluate prior model years.
Engine & Performance
Powertrain specs by trim
| Feature | 2.0 Rock Creek AWD | 2.0 S | 2.0 S AWD | 2.0 SR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2L | 2L | 2L | 2L |
| Horsepower | 141 hp | 141 hp | 141 hp | 141 hp |
| Torque | 140 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Xtronic | Xtronic | Xtronic | Xtronic |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive |
Engine & Performance (continued)
| Feature | 2.0 SR AWD | 2.0 SV | 2.0 SV AWD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2L | 2L | 2L |
| Horsepower | 141 hp | 141 hp | 141 hp |
| Torque | 140 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Xtronic | Xtronic | Xtronic |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy and range by trim
| Feature | 2.0 Rock Creek AWD | 2.0 S | 2.0 S AWD | 2.0 SR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPG | 27 city / 34 hwy / 30 combined | 28 city / 35 hwy / 31 combined | 27 city / 34 hwy / 30 combined | 28 city / 35 hwy / 31 combined |
Fuel Economy (continued)
| Feature | 2.0 SR AWD | 2.0 SV | 2.0 SV AWD |
|---|---|---|---|
| MPG | 27 city / 34 hwy / 30 combined | 28 city / 35 hwy / 31 combined | 27 city / 34 hwy / 30 combined |
Which Notable Equipment and Technology Upgrades Distinguish the Kicks SR From the S?
The primary equipment upgrades distinguishing the 2027 Nissan Kicks SR from the Kicks S center on cabin screens, seating upholstery, exterior trim, and convenience features. While the Kicks S includes a 7-inch multi-function information display paired with a 12.3-inch touch-screen display, the SR trim upgrades the driver’s display to a full 12.3-inch digital dashboard for a continuous dual-screen layout.
The seating materials and interior accents create two distinct cabin environments:
- Kicks S: Features standard cloth seat trim, urethane steering wheel, manual climate adjustments, and a 4-speaker audio system.
- Kicks SR: Upgrades to TailorFit leatherette-appointed seat trim with sport cloth inserts, leatherette-wrapped steering wheel, automatic temperature control, and a 6-speaker audio setup with an optional 10-speaker Bose Personal Plus Audio System.
Exterior visual upgrades on the SR include machine-finished 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels wrapped in P225/45WR19 all-season tires, compared to the 16-inch steel wheels with full covers on the S trim. The SR also adds body-colored door handles, dark chrome exterior accents, integrated turn signals in the side mirrors, and approach unlock with walk-away automatic locking logic.
Convenience technology on the SR extends to standard wireless smartphone charging, two additional USB-C ports for rear passengers, and available options like a panoramic moonroof and a heated steering wheel via the SR Premium Package. Buyers evaluating trade-in equity can easily value your trade in online before visiting us, or prequalify online to plan their purchase parameters upfront.
What Safety Features and Driver Assistance Technologies Are Standard on the S vs SR?
Both the 2027 Nissan Kicks S and SR come equipped with standard Nissan Safety Shield 360, but the SR trim adds advanced automated steering, adaptive cruising, and 360-degree camera systems. Standard collision-mitigation features on every model include Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and High Beam Assist.
The entry-level Kicks S provides core active protection alongside basic cruise control and a standard RearView Monitor backup camera. This baseline package delivers comprehensive active braking and lane-monitoring warnings for everyday travel.
Upgrading to the Kicks SR introduces Nissan’s suite of active driver assistance tech:
- ProPILOT Assist: Combines Intelligent Cruise Control with active lane-steering assistance to manage vehicle distance, highway centering, and stop-and-go traffic flow.
- Intelligent Around View Monitor: Uses multiple exterior cameras to synthesize a virtual 360-degree overhead view on the central screen for stress-free parking maneuvers.
- Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention: Applies slight braking force to help guide the vehicle back into its lane if a lane change is initiated while another vehicle is detected in the blind spot.
- Traffic Sign Recognition: Reads road speed limits and displays them directly onto the 12.3-inch digital dashboard.
Drivers looking to add protective accessories or all-weather floor protection to either trim grade can easily order genuine Nissan parts through our dedicated department.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Safety and driver-assistance features by trim
| Feature | 2.0 Rock Creek AWD | 2.0 S | 2.0 S AWD | 2.0 SR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABS | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Isofix preparation | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Head restraints location front seats active | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Head restraints location front seats height adjustable | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Head restraints location front seats number | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Head restraints location rear seats number | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Front seat belts seat position driver pre-tensioners | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Front seat belts seat position driver height adjustable | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Front seat belts seat position passenger pre-tensioners | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Front seat belts seat position passenger height adjustable | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Rear seat belts seat position center type 3-point | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Rear seat belts seat position driver | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Rear seat belts seat position passenger | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Accident data recorder | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Anti collision system activates brake lights | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Anti collision system activates seat belts | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Anti collision system automatic emergency braking | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Anti collision system brakes at low speed front and rear | D | โ | โ | D |
| Anti collision system driver monitor | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Anti collision system manufacturer’s name | Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IFCW) | Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IFCW) | Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IFCW) | Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IFCW) |
| Anti collision system minimum speed to activate (mph) | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Anti collision system operates above 130 kph/78 mph | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
Safety & Driver Assistance (continued)
| Feature | 2.0 SR AWD | 2.0 SV | 2.0 SV AWD |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Isofix preparation | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Head restraints location front seats active | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Head restraints location front seats height adjustable | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Head restraints location front seats number | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Head restraints location rear seats number | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Front seat belts seat position driver pre-tensioners | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Front seat belts seat position driver height adjustable | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Front seat belts seat position passenger pre-tensioners | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Front seat belts seat position passenger height adjustable | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Rear seat belts seat position center type 3-point | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Rear seat belts seat position driver | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Rear seat belts seat position passenger | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Accident data recorder | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Anti collision system activates brake lights | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Anti collision system activates seat belts | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Anti collision system automatic emergency braking | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Anti collision system brakes at low speed front and rear | D | โ | โ |
| Anti collision system driver monitor | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Anti collision system manufacturer’s name | Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IFCW) | Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IFCW) | Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IFCW) |
| Anti collision system minimum speed to activate (mph) | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Anti collision system operates above 130 kph/78 mph | Standard | Standard | Standard |
What Is the Starting MSRP for the Base 2027 Nissan Kicks S and Which Trim Offers the Best Overall Value?
The base 2027 Nissan Kicks S FWD starts at a Base MSRP of $22,790 plus a $1,575 destination charge, making it one of the most affordable new crossovers on the market. Adding Intelligent All-Wheel Drive to the S trim raises the Base MSRP to $24,290.
Across the complete lineup, pricing structure breaks down as follows:
- 2.0 S FWD: $22,790 Base MSRP | $1,575 destination
- 2.0 S AWD: $24,290 Base MSRP | $1,575 destination
- 2.0 SV FWD: $24,490 Base MSRP | $1,575 destination
- 2.0 SV AWD: $26,490 Base MSRP | $1,575 destination
- 2.0 SR FWD: $26,990 Base MSRP | $1,575 destination
- 2.0 SR AWD: $28,790 Base MSRP | $1,575 destination
- 2.0 Rock Creek AWD: $28,840 Base MSRP | $1,575 destination
Determining the best overall value depends on your budget priorities and tech preferences. The mid-tier Kicks SV at $24,490 serves as a strong value benchmark for budget-conscious buyers, adding 17-inch steel wheels, wireless smartphone charging, and Intelligent Key walk-away locking over the base model.
However, for drivers who want modern highway assistance and premium cabin presentation, the Kicks SR offers exceptional equipment density for its price point. Greenbrier drivers jumping onto Interstate 65 for a daily commute find that upgrading to the SR trim provides ProPILOT Assist and dual 12.3-inch displays that significantly reduce daily driving stress.
Pricing
Pricing by trim
| Feature | 2.0 Rock Creek AWD | 2.0 S | 2.0 S AWD | 2.0 SR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $28,840 | $22,790 | $24,290 | $26,990 |
| Destination charge | $1,575 | $1,575 | $1,575 | $1,575 |
Pricing (continued)
| Feature | 2.0 SR AWD | 2.0 SV | 2.0 SV AWD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $28,790 | $24,490 | $26,490 |
| Destination charge | $1,575 | $1,575 | $1,575 |
How Does Cargo Space in the Nissan Kicks Compare to Competitors Like the Hyundai Kona?
The 2027 Nissan Kicks delivers 30 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the second row in FWD configurations and 24 cubic feet in AWD models. Folding the 60/40 split rear seats expands total cargo capacity to 60 cubic feet in FWD versions and 50 cubic feet with all-wheel drive.
When evaluated against subcompact crossover competitors like the Hyundai Kona, the Kicks holds a distinct advantage in standard trunk volume behind the rear seats. The Hyundai Kona offers approximately 25 cubic feet of cargo space behind its second row and expands to roughly 63 cubic feet with seats folded. The Kicks FWD model’s 30 cubic feet of standard rear cargo room allows owners to carry extra luggage, athletic gear, or groceries without sacrificing seating capacity for five passengers.
A wide tailgate opening and low liftover height make loading heavy items straightforward. Up front, a deep center console, large door bottle holders, and smart storage trays ensure personal items remain organized on long drives.
Dimensions & Capacity
Capacity and dimensions by trim
| Feature | 2.0 Rock Creek AWD | 2.0 S | 2.0 S AWD | 2.0 SR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 23.9 cu ft | 30.0 cu ft | 23.9 cu ft | 29.2 cu ft |
| Curb weight | 3,233 lbs | 3,002 lbs | 3,196 lbs | 3,063 lbs |
| Payload | 934 lbs | 900 lbs | 894 lbs | 960 lbs |
Dimensions & Capacity (continued)
| Feature | 2.0 SR AWD | 2.0 SV | 2.0 SV AWD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 23.9 cu ft | 29.2 cu ft | 23.9 cu ft |
| Curb weight | 3,253 lbs | 3,024 lbs | 3,233 lbs |
| Payload | 958 lbs | 922 lbs | 934 lbs |
What Buyers Ask Most About the 2027 Nissan Kicks S and SR Trims
Q: Does the 2027 Nissan Kicks S include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes, every 2027 Nissan Kicks trim comes equipped with a NissanConnect 12.3-inch touch-screen display that features standard wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto integration. Drivers can connect compatible smartphones without charging cables to access maps, messaging, and streaming media directly on the center screen.
Q: Can I get Intelligent All-Wheel Drive on both the Kicks S and SR trims?
Yes, Nissan offers Intelligent All-Wheel Drive as an option across all trim grades, including the S and SR. Selecting AWD adds automatic torque distribution to the rear wheels during slip conditions, an independent multi-link rear suspension, and a driver-selectable Snow mode.
Q: What wheel sizes come standard on the Kicks S versus the Kicks SR?
The base Kicks S comes with 16-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers fitted with P215/65HR16 all-season tires. The top-tier Kicks SR features machine-finished 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels paired with lower-profile P225/45WR19 all-season tires for a sportier aesthetic and firmer road feel.
Q: Does the 2027 Nissan Kicks SR come standard with ProPILOT Assist?
Yes, ProPILOT Assist is standard equipment on the 2027 Nissan Kicks SR. The system combines Intelligent Cruise Control with steering assistance to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane and maintain set stopping distances during highway commuting.
Q: What warranty coverage protects the 2027 Nissan Kicks?
Every 2027 Nissan Kicks is backed by factory warranty protection, including a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Additional coverage includes 5 years/unlimited miles of corrosion protection and 3 years/36,000 miles of roadside assistance coverage.
Test Drive the 2027 Nissan Kicks at Newton Nissan of Gallatin
The best way to decide between the practical budget appeal of the Kicks S and the feature-packed tech layout of the Kicks SR is to compare them in person. Our sales team is ready to walk you through the display screens, safety tech, and seating comfort of both models.
Explore our new Nissan Kicks inventory online, or visit our showroom today to test drive your preferred trim grade. You can also contact our team directly at (615) 442-3090 or drop by our dealership showroom to start your search.
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