Nissan Kicks interior: an honest review with photos, pros and pitfalls

Nissan Kicks is one of the most popular crossovers in its class, but its interior often causes conflicting reviews. On the one hand, the manufacturer promises premium materials and advanced ergonomics, on the other, owners complain about cramped space and inconvenient details. In this review we will look at the interior Kicks 2023–2026 in detail: from the quality of the plastic to the hidden multimedia functions that are not mentioned in the cabin.

The article will be useful to those who choose between Kicks and competitors like Hyundai Creta or Kia Seltos, as well as current owners who want to unlock the potential of their car. We will not praise or scold the model at random - only facts confirmed by test drives, reviews from servicemen and analysis of technical documentation. Let's start with the first impression of the salon.

First impression: design and finishing materials

Interior Nissan Kicks designed in a minimalist style with accents on horizontal lines that visually expand the space. The center console is divided into two zones: the upper one with a touch screen (7 or 8 inches depending on the configuration) and the lower one with climate control. The designers tried to avoid overload, but some elements look too “budgetary”.

Finishing materials - This is a sore subject for many owners. Top versions use soft plastics on the dashboard and door panels, but already in basic versions hard plastic with noticeable seams predominates. For example, the armrest between the seats in the version Comfort upholstered in fabric, and Tekna - leatherette with stitching. The difference is noticeable not only to the touch, but also in durability: after 2–3 years of use, abrasions appear on cheap materials.

• ✅ Pros: laconic design, convenient location of climate control buttons, high-quality assembly (no squeaks in new cars).
• ❌ Cons: hard plastic in basic versions, light inserts that get dirty quickly, no glove compartment lighting.
• 🔍 Hidden trick: in versions with a leather steering wheel, a button for switching on-board computer display modes is hidden under the rim - many owners learn about it only after a year of operation.

Compared to competitors, the interior Kicks loses Hyundai Creta in terms of quality of materials, but outperforms Renault Duster on ergonomics. For example, the gear shift knob in Nissan covered in leather even in medium trim levels, and Duster - plastic.

Ergonomics and ease of control

Here Nissan Kicks shows itself at its best. The steering wheel is adjustable for reach and tilt, and in top versions it has heating and audio system control buttons. The pedals are positioned optimally for drivers between 165cm and 185cm tall, but tall people (over 190cm) may lack knee room - a common complaint in reviews.

Climate control in versions Comfort+ and above automatic, with separate controls for the driver and passenger. The basic configurations are equipped with a conventional air conditioner with mechanical knobs, which looks archaic compared to its competitors. The climate control buttons are illuminated at night, but the brightness is not adjustable - this can be annoying on long night drives.

Multimedia controls are duplicated on the steering wheel, but The touch screen in basic versions does not support gestures (for example, swipe to change tracks), which is inconvenient on the go. But in top trim levels there is voice control that recognizes commands in Russian - a rare option in this class.

Multimedia system: capabilities and pitfalls

B Nissan Kicks 2026 system installed NissanConnect with an 8-inch screen (7 inches in the base). She supports Apple CarPlay And Android Auto (wired) and also has built-in navigation with offline maps. However, there are several nuances:

• 📱 Pros: fast synchronization with a smartphone, clear display of maps, support for gestures in top versions.
• ⚠️ Cons: in the basic configuration there is no USB port for rear passengers, and the sound of the standard audio system (4 speakers) leaves much to be desired.
• 🔌 Hidden Function: if you connect a flash drive with music in the format FLAC, the system automatically converts tracks to MP3 for playback - this is not indicated in the instructions.

Deserves special attention Bose audio system in version Tekna. It includes 8 speakers with a subwoofer and equalizer settings, but even here there is a drawback: with loud music, wheezing appears at high frequencies. This is confirmed by reviews from owners and tests from reputable publications.

Equipment	Screen size	Apple CarPlay/Android Auto	Number of USB ports	Audio system
Visia	7"	No	1 (front only)	4 speakers
Comfort	7"	Yes (wired)	1 (front) + 1 (rear)	4 speakers
Tekna	8"	Yes (wired/wireless)	2 (front) + 1 (rear)	Bose (8 speakers)

If you often listen to music, we recommend checking the sound immediately during a test drive. In some cars, the speakers may be poorly calibrated from the factory - this can be cured by reflashing it in the service center, but not all dealers agree to do this under warranty.

How to update the multimedia firmware yourself?

To update, you will need a FAT32 format flash drive with a firmware file (you can download it from the official Nissan website). Insert it into the USB port, go to Settings → Software Update and follow the onscreen instructions. Important: do not remove the flash drive until the process is completed (takes ~15 minutes).

Interior space: real measurements and reviews from owners

According to passport data, Nissan Kicks offers 425 liters of luggage space and 1,395 mm of rear legroom. But in practice, these figures require clarification. For example, the trunk has an inconvenient shape: a high threshold and narrowing towards the rear seats make it difficult to load large items (for example, a baby stroller).

The rear seats are designed for two adult passengers - three will be cramped. The headrests are height adjustable, but there is no backrest angle adjustment, which is inconvenient on long trips. In complete sets Tekna There are heated rear seats, but they only come on when the engine is running (unlike many competitors).

⚠️ Attention: If you often transport your child in a child seat, please note that Kicks fastenings ISOFIX located too close to the back of the front seat. This makes it difficult to install chairs with a large base (e.g. Cybex Cloud Z).

• 📏 Front legroom: 1,040 mm (convenient for drivers up to 185 cm).
• 🧳 Trunk: actual volume is about 380 liters when fully loaded (including “dead zones”).
• 👶 Child seats: it is better to choose models with a narrow base (for example, Maxi-Cosi Pearl).

For comparison: Hyundai Creta the trunk is 40 liters larger, and the rear seats are 5 cm wider. But Kicks there is an advantage - a lower trunk threshold, which is convenient for older people or when loading heavy bags.

Hidden features and life hacks for owners

Many salon features Nissan Kicks are not advertised by dealers, but can significantly improve comfort. Here are a few of them:

1. Eco-climate mode: if you press the buttons at the same time A/C And RECIRC (recirculation), the system will automatically reduce the energy consumption of the air conditioner, which saves fuel. This is not documented, but works in all configurations.
2. Hidden compartment under the trunk floor: if you lift the mat, there is a recess for storing small items (for example, a first aid kit). Some cars do not have it - it depends on the year of manufacture.
3. Setting up instrument lighting: in the on-board computer menu (Settings → Display → Brightness) you can choose one of 3 backlight colors: white, blue or orange.

In versions with keyless entry, you can program the mirrors to automatically fold when the alarm is set - to do this, you need to hold the close button on the key for more than 3 seconds. This feature is not available in all cars, so check its availability when purchasing.

Plastic on the dashboard (are there any scratches or blisters)|The operation of all climate control buttons|Dashboard lighting (are there any burnt out lamps)|Noisy heater fan at maximum speed|Seat adjustment (is there any play)-->

Comparison with competitors: which is better?

To objectively evaluate the salon Nissan Kicks, let's compare it with the main competitors in the class: Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos And Renault Arkana. For clarity, let's summarize the key parameters in the table:

Model	Quality of materials	Ergonomics	Multimedia	Space at the back	Price (base)
Nissan Kicks	Medium (soft plastic only in the top)	Good (convenient location of controls)	7–8" screen, Apple CarPlay from 2023	Too tight for three	from 1,699,000 ₽
Hyundai Creta	Above average (soft plastic even in the base)	Excellent (steering wheel reach adjustment)	10.25" screen, wireless CarPlay	5 cm more spacious in width	from 1,749,000 ₽
Kia Seltos	Good (faux leather in medium trim levels)	Good (but climate buttons are less intuitive)	10.25" screen, voice control	Comparable to Kicks, but the ceiling is higher	from 1,799,000 ₽

In terms of price/quality ratio, salon Kicks occupies an intermediate position. He's losing Creta in terms of equipment, but outperforms Arkana on electronics reliability. If multimedia is critical for you, it is better to take a closer look at Korean competitors. If simplicity and reliability are more important - Nissan could be a good choice.

⚠️ Attention: In 2023 Nissan updated the multimedia firmware in Kicksby adding support Android Auto over a wireless connection. However, this requires updating the software in the service - dealers do not always inform customers about this. Check the firmware version when purchasing!

Typical interior problems and how to avoid them

Despite the good assembly, Nissan Kicks There are a number of “childhood diseases” that you should know about in advance:

• 🔊 Plastic squeaks: after 10–15 thousand km, extraneous sounds from the dashboard may appear, especially in cold weather. Solution: treat with silicone grease (do not use WD-40!).
• 🌡️ Poor operation of the stove: In some cars, due to the poor design of the air ducts, heat flows only at maximum fan speed. This can be treated by flashing the climate control unit.
• 🔋 Battery drain: if you leave the car on Apple CarPlay at night, multimedia can drain the battery. Always unplug the USB cable after travel.

Another common problem is fogging of windows in rainy weather. This is due to the ineffective operation of the ventilation system. To avoid this, it is recommended:

1. Clean the cabin filter regularly (every 15 thousand km).
2. Use the recirculation mode only if there are strong odors outside.
3. Check the operation of the ventilation valve (it may stick due to dirt).

If you buy Kicks with mileage, be sure to check:

• The operation of all buttons on the steering wheel (the call answer button often fails).
• The condition of the plastic under the gearshift knob (where it wears off the fastest).
• Availability of all keys (in some cars the second key is not equipped with an alarm key fob).

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan Kicks interior

Is it possible to install wireless charging for a smartphone in the basic package?

Yes, but this will require replacing the lower center console panel. Officially Nissan does not offer such an upgrade, but many car shops install universal modules (for example, from Pioneer). Cost - from 8,000 ₽ including work. Important: after installation, you may need to flash the multimedia for correct operation Apple CarPlay.

Why is there so little storage space in the Kicks?

This is one of the main complaints about ergonomics. There are only 3 small compartments in the cabin: a glove compartment, a cup holder and a pocket in the doors. Owners solve the problem with:

• Organizers for the back of the front seat (for example, from Tesla).
• Magnetic holders for smartphones on the dashboard.
• Nets in the trunk for securing small items.

In 2026 Nissan promises to add an additional compartment under the armrest, but for now this is only available in European versions.

How to turn on sport mode in the Kicks interior?

B Nissan Kicks There's no full sport mode, but you can activate more responsive throttle control. To do this:

1. Turn off the engine.
2. Press and hold the gas pedal to the floor.
3. Turn the ignition key to position ON (don't start it!).
4. Hold the pedal for another 10 seconds until the indicator on the dashboard flashes ESP.

This mode will be reset after turning off the ignition. It doesn't affect the suspension or steering, just throttle response.

What are the best covers for Kicks seats?

For fabric seats, covers made from neoprene (for example, from Covercraft) - they protect against moisture and dirt. For leather seats (in version Tekna) it is better to use covers from alcantara with perforation to avoid sweating in summer. Important: the covers must not cover the side airbags! Check standard certification before purchasing ECE R14.

Is it possible to change the interior lighting bulbs to LED ones yourself?

Technically yes, but there are some nuances:

• LED lamps are suitable for interior lighting T10 with voltage 12V.
• The dashboard uses lamps 194, but replacing them may result in an error on the on-board computer.
• Lamps are needed to illuminate the glove compartment 2825, but they often burn out due to power surges.

We recommend using lamps with a resistor (for example, Philips LED) to avoid flickering. If, after replacement, the dashboard lights up Check Engine, the error must be reset via a diagnostic scanner.