Choosing the perfect SUV can be a challenge, especially when comparing two standout models like the 2025 Nissan Kicks and the Hyundai Tucson.
Both offer impressive features, but which one is the better fit for your lifestyle in El Rio, Saticoy, Camarillo, or Channel Islands?
Whether you’re looking for efficiency, advanced tech, or a spacious interior, this guide breaks down everything you need to know in a Kicks vs Tucson comparison.
At Team Nissan of Oxnard, we know that finding the right SUV means more than just looking at specs—it’s about discovering the vehicle that truly fits your needs.
Read on to see how the 2025 Kicks Tucson features stack up, and when you're ready, visit us to explore the Nissan Kicks in person!
Compact Versatility Meets Crossover Power in El Rio, Saticoy, and Camarillo
The 2025 Nissan Kicks and Hyundai Tucson offer two different takes on modern SUVs. One is a compact, city-friendly ride, while the other is a larger, more rugged crossover.
But which one is the better choice for drivers in El Rio, Saticoy, and Camarillo?
Size and Maneuverability
In this Kicks vs. Tucson comparison, size plays a big role.
- The 2025 Nissan Kicks measures 171.9 inches in length, 70.9 inches in width, and 64.2 inches in height, with 8.4 inches of ground clearance. Its smaller footprint makes it ideal for narrow streets and tight parking spots. It’s lightweight, easy to handle, and built for efficiency.
- The 2025 Hyundai Tucson, at 182.7 inches in length and 73.4 inches in width, is a larger crossover. With a wheelbase of 108.5 inches, it provides more space for passengers and cargo but can be harder to maneuver in crowded areas. The Tucson’s ground clearance ranges from 7.1 to 8.3 inches, depending on drivetrain.
Fuel Efficiency & Daily Driving
For those commuting from Channel Islands to Camarillo, fuel economy is key. In the Nissan Kicks vs. Hyundai Tucson 2025 debate, efficiency is a major factor.
The Kicks’ compact design and lightweight frame help it maximize fuel savings, making it a smart pick for drivers who want to spend less at the pump.
Which One Fits Your Life Best?
If you need an efficient, nimble SUV for city driving, the Kicks stands out. If you prioritize space and a larger cabin, the Tucson is worth considering.
Keep reading as we break down the details of these Nissan vs. Hyundai SUVs.
Exterior Design and Style: Sporty vs. Bold
The 2025 Nissan Kicks and Hyundai Tucson bring two distinct design styles to the road.
One is sleek and sporty, while the other is bold and rugged. But which design works best for your daily drive?
Compact & Sporty vs. Bold & Rugged
In this Kicks vs. Tucson comparison, the Nissan Kicks stands out with its compact shape and sharp lines. It features a dark graphite grille, LED headlights with signature accents, and LED Daytime Running Lights.
The floating roof design and available two-tone color options add a modern touch. If you want a small SUV that turns heads in El Rio and Saticoy, the Kicks delivers a stylish and urban-friendly look.
The Hyundai Tucson, in contrast, has a bigger and bolder presence. It features bi-LED headlights, LED front turn signals, and a shark-fin antenna. The angular bodywork, wider stance, and aggressive front end give it a rugged crossover appeal.
While its larger size offers more road presence, it may feel less maneuverable for city driving in Camarillo and Channel Islands.
Exterior Features & Style
Both SUVs offer unique exterior features:
- The 2025 Kicks includes privacy glass, silver roof rails, and body-colored outside mirrors with available LED turn signals. Its 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers complement its sporty urban design.
- The 2025 Tucson features 17-inch alloy wheels, solar control front glass, and an acoustic-laminated windshield for a refined touch. It also includes a rear spoiler for added aerodynamics.
Which Design Fits Your Style?
If you want a compact SUV that blends sportiness with easy handling, the Kicks offers an eye-catching, modern look.
If you prefer a larger, more rugged SUV with an aggressive stance, the Tucson may be the better fit.
Keep reading to see which one wins in performance and efficiency!
Performance and Efficiency: Which SUV Delivers More for Your Drive?
When comparing the 2025 Nissan Kicks vs. Hyundai Tucson, performance and fuel efficiency play a big role. Do you prioritize power or fuel savings? Let’s break it down.
Power vs. Efficiency
The 2025 Nissan Kicks features a 2.0L four-cylinder engine that produces 141 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. Designed for smooth city driving, it delivers nimble handling and great gas mileage. Its lightweight build makes it easy to maneuver through El Rio, Saticoy, and Camarillo. While it’s not built for high-speed thrills, the Kicks shines in daily commuting and fuel savings.
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson, on the other hand, offers a 2.5L four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This extra power provides stronger acceleration for highway merging and passing. However, a larger engine means lower fuel efficiency, making it a better fit for those who prioritize performance over savings.
Fuel Economy Comparison
Model | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
---|---|---|---|
Nissan Kicks (FWD - S Model) | 28 MPG | 35 MPG | 31 MPG |
Hyundai Tucson (FWD - SE Model) | 25 MPG | 33 MPG | 28 MPG |
In this Kicks vs. Tucson comparison, the Kicks is the more fuel-efficient choice, helping drivers save more at the pump. The Tucson, while more powerful, may lead to higher fuel costs over time.
Drivetrain & Handling
The Kicks focuses on efficiency and smooth handling, making it an ideal urban SUV. The Tucson, while larger and more powerful, offers available all-wheel drive (AWD) for better traction.
Which SUV is Right for You?
If you want a fuel-saving, city-friendly SUV, the 2025 Nissan Kicks is a smart pick. If you need more horsepower for highway driving, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson delivers extra power at the cost of efficiency.
Keep reading to explore more key features of these Nissan vs. Hyundai SUVs!
Interior Comfort and Cargo Space: Compact Practicality or Spacious Luxury?
A great SUV should be comfortable, spacious, and practical for daily life. In this Kicks vs. Tucson comparison, size and space play a big role in choosing the right fit.
Cabin Space & Passenger Comfort
The 2025 Nissan Kicks has a smart, compact cabin designed for efficiency. It seats five and provides 42.7 inches of front legroom and 34.5 inches in the rear, making it roomy for a small SUV. Headroom is 39.7 inches in the front and 38.5 inches in the back (without the moonroof), ensuring a comfortable ride for passengers. Soft-touch materials and premium trims add a modern touch, making the Kicks a great option for comfort without extra bulk.
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson, on the other hand, is a larger SUV, offering more passenger space. With 41.4 inches of front legroom and 41.3 inches in the rear, it provides ample space for backseat riders. Additionally, its wider design offers 57.6 inches of front shoulder room and 56.0 inches in the rear, giving passengers extra breathing room. If you have a growing family or frequently take long road trips, the Tucson’s spacious cabin has the edge. However, its larger size may not be as convenient for city driving in El Rio, Saticoy, or Camarillo.
Cargo & Storage Space
In terms of storage, the Kicks offers:
- 30 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up
- 60 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down
- A 60/40-split fold-down rear seat and an adjustable rear cargo floor (FWD models only)
The Tucson provides:
- 41.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up
- 80.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down
This makes the Tucson the better option for those needing extra cargo room. However, if you prefer a more compact, easy-to-park SUV with enough storage for everyday essentials, the Kicks is a solid choice.
Which SUV is Right for You?
Both models feature smart layouts, tech-friendly cabins, and versatile seating options. The Kicks is ideal for urban drivers who need a fuel-efficient, compact SUV, while the Tucson offers extra space for passengers and cargo.
The right choice depends on your needs—do you prefer easy maneuverability, or do you need more room for your lifestyle?
Technology and Infotainment: Smart Connectivity on the Go
Modern drivers want smart, user-friendly tech in their SUVs. In this 2025 Kicks vs. Tucson comparison, both models offer advanced connectivity features, but their approaches differ.
Infotainment & Connectivity
The 2025 Nissan Kicks features a 12.3-inch digital dashboard with fully digital gauges, giving drivers a modern, high-tech feel.
It also offers a 7-inch touchscreen display or an available 12.3-inch NissanConnect® display with multi-touch control.
Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ come standard, ensuring seamless smartphone integration.
Additional features include:
- Siri® Eyes Free
- Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System
- Streaming audio via Bluetooth®
- SiriusXM® with a 3-month subscription
- Up to four USB-C ports for easy device charging
- Available Bose Personal® Plus Audio System with 10 speakers, including Bose UltraNearfield™ headrest speakers
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson also features a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.
Standard features include:
- HD Radio™ Technology
- SiriusXM® Satellite Radio
- Multimedia software over-the-air (OTA) update capability
Unlike the Kicks, the Tucson does not offer onboard navigation, a Bose premium audio system, or dynamic voice recognition.
While the Tucson’s interface is user-friendly, the Kicks provides a wider range of audio and connectivity features.
Ease of Use & Features
Both models make music, navigation, and communication easy. However, the Nissan Kicks stands out with its available Bose® sound system, a fully digital gauge cluster, and more USB charging options.
The Tucson’s infotainment system is sleek and modern but lacks some premium upgrades found in the Kicks.
Which SUV Fits Your Needs?
If you prefer a simple, yet feature-packed system with premium audio and a digital dashboard, the Nissan Kicks delivers.
If you want a larger touchscreen with standard OTA updates and HD Radio™, the Tucson may be the right fit.
The choice comes down to what matters most: enhanced audio and connectivity in the Kicks or a streamlined infotainment setup in the Tucson.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Advanced Protection for Every Journey
Safety Features: Nissan Kicks vs. Hyundai Tucson
Safety is a key factor when choosing an SUV, and both the 2025 Nissan Kicks and 2025 Hyundai Tucson offer advanced driver-assist features for added confidence on the road.
Nissan Kicks Safety Highlights
The Nissan Kicks comes standard with Nissan Safety Shield® 360, which includes:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
- Blind Spot Warning & Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention
- Lane Departure Warning & Intelligent Lane Intervention
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert & Rear Automatic Braking
- High Beam Assist
Other advanced features include:
- ProPILOT Assist & Intelligent Cruise Control for smoother highway driving
- HD Intelligent Around View® Monitor for enhanced parking visibility
- Traffic Sign Recognition & Intelligent Driver Alertness to help prevent fatigue
- Comprehensive airbag system, including knee airbags and front-center airbag for extra protection
Hyundai Tucson Safety Highlights
The Hyundai Tucson includes Hyundai SmartSense™, featuring:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian/Cyclist/Junction Turning Detection
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning
- Lane Keeping Assist & Lane Following Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
Additional safety features:
- Safe Exit Warning alerts passengers of approaching traffic before exiting
- Rear Occupant Alert helps prevent children or pets from being left behind
- Downhill Brake Control & Vehicle Stability Management for better control on slopes
Which One Is Safer?
Both SUVs provide strong safety features, but the Nissan Kicks offers extra driver-assist tech like Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention and a 360° camera, making it ideal for city driving.
The Hyundai Tucson provides a larger frame and stability-enhancing features, better suited for highway and rough terrain.
If you want advanced safety at a lower price, the Kicks is a great choice. If you prefer a bigger SUV with essential safety tech, the Tucson delivers.
Pricing and Value: Which SUV Offers the Best Deal?
Price is a major factor when choosing an SUV, and both the 2025 Nissan Kicks and 2025 Hyundai Tucson offer value in different ways.
Nissan Kicks: Affordable & Efficient
- Starting MSRP: $21,830 – One of the most budget-friendly SUVs in its class
- Better fuel efficiency (28/35/31 MPG) – Saves money on gas over time
- Packed with standard safety and tech features, including a 12.3-inch digital dashboard, Nissan
- Safety Shield® 360, and wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™
- Lower cost of ownership – Affordable maintenance and insurance
For drivers in El Rio, Saticoy, and Camarillo, the Kicks offers modern features without the high cost—making it a smart buy for budget-conscious shoppers.
Hyundai Tucson: Spacious & More Powerful
- Starting MSRP: $28,705 – Costs nearly $7,000 more than the Kicks
- Larger cabin & more cargo space (41.2 cu. ft. vs. 30 cu. ft.) – Ideal for families
- More powerful 2.5L engine (187 hp vs. 141 hp) – Better acceleration and towing capability
- More premium tech on higher trims, but they come at a higher price
The Tucson delivers more space and power, but its higher cost and lower fuel efficiency (25/33/28 MPG) make it less budget-friendly in the long run.
Which SUV Offers Better Value?
For affordability, fuel savings, and modern features, the Nissan Kicks is the smarter buy.
For extra space and power, the Hyundai Tucson is worth the higher price—if you need it.
Which SUV fits your needs? Contact Team Nissan of Oxnard today to learn more!
FAQs: 2025 Nissan Kicks vs 2025 Hyundai Tucson
Drivers looking for a new SUV often have specific questions about size, features, safety, comfort, and performance. Below are answers to some of the most common questions to help you decide between the 2025 Nissan Kicks and the Hyundai Tucson.
How does the size and cargo capacity of the Nissan Kicks compare with the Hyundai Tucson?
The Hyundai Tucson offers significantly more cargo space than the Nissan Kicks. With the rear seats up, the Tucson provides 41.2 cubic feet, compared to the Kicks' 30 cubic feet. When the seats are folded down, the Tucson expands to 80.3 cubic feet, while the Kicks offers 60 cubic feet.
Which vehicle offers better technological integration and infotainment options?
The Nissan Kicks offers better technological integration and infotainment options compared to the Hyundai Tucson.
While both vehicles feature a touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, the Kicks goes further with a fully digital gauge cluster, an available Bose® Personal Plus Audio System with UltraNearfield™ headrest speakers, and up to four USB-C ports. Additionally, the Kicks includes onboard navigation and dynamic voice recognition, which the Tucson lacks. While the Tucson’s interface is modern and user-friendly, the Kicks provides a more feature-rich and connected experience.
What are the safety ratings and features of both the Kicks and Tucson?
The Nissan Kicks comes standard with Nissan Safety Shield® 360, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Hyundai Tucson offers Hyundai SmartSense™, with similar features plus an available surround-view monitor. Both models perform well in crash tests.
How does the passenger comfort and interior quality compare between the two models?
The Nissan Kicks has a compact but comfortable cabin with supportive seats and soft-touch materials. The Hyundai Tucson, being larger, offers more legroom and premium materials in higher trims, providing a more upscale feel.
What are the respective powertrain options and their performance metrics?
The 2025 Nissan Kicks and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson offer different powertrain options, with the Tucson delivering more power and performance.
- Nissan Kicks:
- Engine: 2.0-liter Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 141 hp @ 6,000 rpm
- Torque: 140 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
- Hyundai Tucson:
- Engine: 2.5-liter Inline 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve
- Horsepower: 187 hp @ 6,100 rpm
- Torque: 178 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Understanding these key differences can help you choose the SUV that best fits your needs. If you have more questions, Team Nissan of Oxnard is happy to help!
Which SUV is Right for Your Lifestyle in Oxnard and Beyond?
Finding the right SUV is all about balancing style, space, technology, and performance. Whether you're drawn to the efficient and compact 2025 Nissan Kicks or the larger, more powerful Hyundai Tucson, making the best choice depends on your driving needs.
If you’re in El Rio, Saticoy, Camarillo, or Channel Islands, Team Nissan of Oxnard is here to help you explore your options.
We invite you to browse our wide selection of Nissan SUVs, including the 2025 Nissan Kicks, and experience its smart design and advanced features firsthand.
Our team is ready to answer any questions, set up test drives, and help you find the perfect vehicle.
While you're here, check out more helpful guides on car ownership. If you're considering going electric, learn more about the benefits of owning an EV in Oxnard, CA.
Curious about NMAC Loyalty Cash and how it can help you save on your next Nissan? We've got the details.
Not sure whether to buy or lease your new Nissan in Ventura? Our guide breaks it down so you can make the right choice.
Visit Team Nissan of Oxnard today or explore our website to find the best Nissan for your lifestyle.
We look forward to helping you drive home in a vehicle you love!