MODEL
Nissan Kicks Safety
NHTSA safety across every Nissan Kicks model year we cover.
Across the 8 model years of the Nissan Kicks we cover (2019 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2022 at 90 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2025 at 81. 12 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Nissan Kicks is a subcompact crossover SUV that slots below the Rogue in Nissan's lineup, targeting budget-conscious urban drivers and first-time SUV buyers who want a fuel-efficient, maneuverable vehicle without a steep price tag. Sold in the United States since the 2018 model year, the Kicks competes in one of the most crowded segments in the market, where safety credentials increasingly matter to shoppers.
The 2022 Nissan Kicks achieved an Exceptional rating in our Safety Index, scoring 90 out of 100. This places it as the safest model year within the 2019-2025 range. Federal crash testing results for the Kicks show a 5 out of 5 stars for side impact protection and 4 out of 5 stars for frontal impact protection. Its rollover resistance rating is 4 out of 5 stars; while a respectable score, it reflects the inherent physics of a taller, lighter subcompact crossover. Across all tracked model years, the Kicks has accumulated 9 recalls. This moderate recall count for a seven-year production period necessitates a VIN check to confirm recall completion status. Owner complaints total 404. Of these, 25 involved reported crashes and 13 involved reported injuries. While these are unverified owner allegations, the volume of complaints should be a consideration for prospective buyers. Notably, no fires or deaths are reported in the collected dataset for the Kicks.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Nissan Kicks as a practical, easy-to-drive entry in the subcompact crossover segment, praising its upright seating position and urban usability. Most professional assessments note that the Kicks prioritizes everyday accessibility over outright performance, and they tend to view its safety technology offerings as competitive for the price point, though not always class-leading.
- The 2022 model year earned the highest NHTSA Safety Index score in this generation at 90 out of 100, placing it in the Exceptional band. If safety ratings are a priority, targeting a 2022 example is a data-backed starting point.
- The Kicks has accumulated 9 recalls across the 2019-to-2025 model years. Any used or new purchase should include a free VIN lookup at NHTSA.gov to confirm all open recalls have been completed by the selling dealer.
- Owner-reported complaints total 404, including 25 associated with crashes and 13 with injuries. These are unverified allegations rather than confirmed defects, but the volume suggests shoppers should review the specific complaint categories on NHTSA's database before committing.
- The rollover resistance rating of 4 out of 5 stars is consistent with the Kicks being a tall, relatively lightweight subcompact crossover. Drivers who frequently carry passengers at highway speeds should be aware of this rating in the context of evasive maneuver scenarios.
Most-recalled year on record: 2025 Nissan Kicks with 4 recalls.