The 2020 Nissan Kicks 1.6L 4-cyl gets 33 MPG combined. This isn’t a fast car, but this fuel efficiency is the Kicks’ strength, the reason it appeals to budget-minded buyers who want practicality and low running costs more than high performance. This is a car for city residents, students, and anyone looking for cheap transportation that saves gas.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 31 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway. The city rating is especially important because the Kicks is great in cities. Its small size and easy handling make it simple to drive on busy streets and fit into small parking spots. The higher highway number is possible on longer trips because of the continuously variable transmission (CVT) that keeps the engine in its most efficient range. While the highway MPG is good, longer periods at higher speeds will show the limits of the 1.6L engine, which will need more gas, possibly hurting real-world mileage.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2020 Nissan Kicks is $1,350. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price when calculated. Your actual fuel costs will change based on your driving, the fuel you use, and local fuel costs. Driving hard and skipping car maintenance will raise your fuel bill.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates are a good starting point, but real-world MPG often varies. Kicks owners often report between the high 20s to the low 40s, based on driving conditions. City driving tends to be close to the EPA estimate, while careful highway driving can beat the 36 MPG rating. Drive efficiently, avoid fast acceleration and braking, and the Kicks will reward you.

How it compares

The Kicks is in a crowded group of small SUVs, and its fuel economy is a strong point against some competitors. The Toyota C-HR gets 29 MPG combined, but is stylish. The Hyundai Kona, a sporty option, gets 30 MPG combined in its base model. The Mitsubishi Mirage G4 sedan gets 37 MPG combined, but it doesn’t have the cargo space and higher seating that makes the Kicks a practical option for many buyers. The Nissan Versa provides similar fuel economy around 35 MPG combined, but lacks the SUV style of the Kicks.

You can find all Nissan fuel economy data here on FuelEconomyHub.com, including the KICKS MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Kicks’ CVT is made to make fuel economy better, so avoid quick bursts of speed. Smooth acceleration will keep the engine in its most efficient range, helping you save fuel and reduce wear on the engine.

Tire pressure is surprisingly important for fuel economy. Check your tire pressure often, at least once a month, and make sure it matches the recommended pressure on the sticker inside the driver’s side door. Low tires create more rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and use more fuel.

Use accessories like air conditioning less, especially on short trips. The AC compressor puts a load on the engine, reducing fuel economy. Roll down the windows or use the ventilation system to circulate fresh air when you can.

Keep up with regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements. A maintained engine runs more efficiently and delivers better fuel economy. Follow the recommended service intervals because they can help at the pump.

Plan your routes to avoid stop-and-go traffic. Highway driving uses less gas than accelerating and braking in traffic. Use navigation apps to find alternative routes that minimize traffic delays, leading to better mileage.