2025 Nissan Kicks vs. 2025 Hyundai VENUE

If you want the SUV experience without the hefty price tag, consider a subcompact SUV. They’re smaller than traditional SUVs, making them easier to navigate through tight streets while still offering more space than a standard sedan. Among the 2025 subcompact SUVs on the market, two models stand out: the Nissan Kicks and Hyundai VENUE. If you’re interested in buying either of these cars but don’t know where to start, keep reading. Our experts at Jim Bass Nissan have put together this guide to help you decide which is better for you.

Introducing the Contenders

The 2025 Nissan Kicks has a bold, aerodynamic design with sleek LED headlights, a V-motion grille, and a floating roofline. This gives it a sporty appearance, making it the ideal choice if you’re an urban driver who wants a stylish ride. Meanwhile, the 2025 Hyundai VENUE has a boxier and more rugged look, with an adventure-ready cascading grille and squared-off wheel arches.

Pricing and Value for Money

A major perk of buying a subcompact SUV is its affordability, so it’s important to find out which model provides more value for your money.

MSRP and Available Trims

Both the Nissan Kicks and Hyundai VENUE are available in a number of trims, so you have a variety to choose from. The Nissan Kicks is available in three trims: the S, SV, and SR. Starting at $23,220 MSRP, the S features an 8-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Safety Shield 360. The SV has upgraded cloth seats and intelligent cruise control. If you prefer a sportier trim, check out the SR with its LED headlights, Bose premium audio system, and 360-degree camera.

The Hyundai VENUE is available in three trims: the SE, SEL, and Limited. With a starting MSRP of $21,395, the SE has basic features, while the SEL trim adds alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded interior materials. Hyundai VENUE’s top-tier trim is the Limited, which has leatherette seats, LED lighting, and navigation-based smart cruise control.

Standard Features and Options

The Nissan Kicks and Hyundai VENUE feature an 8-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. However, the Kicks offers a Bose premium audio system and a digital gauge cluster on higher trims, which are unavailable on the VENUE. If your priority is comfort when driving, you may prefer the Nissan Kicks, as it has more rear-seat legroom. It also has significantly more cargo space, with 50.1-60 cubic feet, compared to the VENUE’s 31.9 cubic feet.

These subcompact SUVs have safety features to protect you and your passengers on the road. The Nissan Kicks has a standard Nissan Safety Shield 360, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Meanwhile, the VENUE features Hyundai SmartSense alongside collision avoidance and lane-keep assist.

Long-Term Ownership Cost

The Nissan Kicks is more fuel-efficient, at 31 mpg city and 36 mpg highway, compared to the VENUE’s 29 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. While the Kicks is praised for its high durability, reliability, and potential cost savings, it has shorter warranty coverage. Nissan provides a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, while the VENUE is backed by Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and five-year/60,000-mile basic coverage.

Performance and Efficiency

The 2025 Nissan Kicks is powered by a 1.6-liter I-4 engine, delivering 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. When driving this vehicle, you’ll enjoy a smooth and fuel-efficient ride because of its continuously variable transmission system. The Hyundai VENUE has a 1.6-liter I-4 engine, which produces 121 horsepower and 113 lb-ft of torque. It comes with either a manual transmission or an intelligent variable transmission.

Fuel economy is a vital factor when buying a subcompact SUV. As we explained earlier, the Kicks has a slight advantage over the VENUE in terms of fuel economy. Vehicles with high energy efficiency also typically produce lower emissions. Thus, the Kicks may have a reduced environmental footprint compared to the Hyundai subcompact SUV.

Ride Quality and Driving Dynamics

The Nissan Kicks is engineered for easy maneuverability and features light steering. However, its handling can feel less engaging at higher speeds. The Hyundai VENUE, in comparison, has a more direct and responsive steering feel. It’s about 400-500 pounds lighter than the Nissan Kicks, which may contribute to better handling and acceleration. While it doesn’t offer a sporty driving experience, it feels more composed than the Kicks when taking sharp corners.

Cabin Space and Seating Comfort

The Nissan Kicks offers slightly more front legroom at 42.7 inches compared to the Hyundai VENUE’s 41.3 inches. Rear passengers in both vehicles enjoy similar space, with the Kicks providing 34.5 inches of legroom and the VENUE offering 34.3 inches. The Kicks also features sport leatherette seats, while the VENUE comes with a cloth and leatherette combination, which may provide a more premium feel than the Kicks.

The Nissan Kicks offers a larger cargo area, providing 30 cubic feet with the rear seats up, compared to the Hyundai VENUE’s 18.7 cubic feet. This substantial difference makes the Kicks a more practical choice for additional storage space.

Infotainment System and Connectivity Features

Both vehicles have modern infotainment systems designed to enhance the driving experience. The Nissan Kicks offers advanced technology and driver-assistance features. The Hyundai VENUE also has a user-friendly infotainment system, ensuring you and your passengers remain connected and entertained throughout the journey.

Hyundai VENUE vs. Nissan Kicks: Which Is Right for You?

The 2025 Hyundai VENUE and Nissan Kicks both offer excellent value, but the Kicks edges ahead if you prioritize fuel efficiency, safety, and interior space. The Hyundai VENUE is better if you’re seeking a budget-friendly urban commuter with a premium warranty package. Ultimately, the Nissan Kicks is the better choice because it leads in key areas that matter to most drivers: efficiency, style, comfort, and modern technology. Why settle for less when you can have the best? Visit our San Angelo, Texas, dealership today and drive away in your 2025 Nissan Kicks.