At a Glance
Power
187hp @ 6100
141hp @ 6000
Torque
178lb-ft @ 4000
140lb-ft @ 4000
Towing
1653lbs
—
Engine
2.5 L/152cc
2.0 L/122cc
Choosing between the KIA Sportage and the Nissan Kicks is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The KIA Sportage delivers 187hp @ 6100 while the Nissan Kicks produces 141hp @ 6000. Pricing starts at $34,290 for the Sportage and $26,120 for the Kicks. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
187hp @ 6100
141hp @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft)
178lb-ft @ 4000
140lb-ft @ 4000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.5 L/152cc
2.0 L/122cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
—
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
25 (2025)mpg
27mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
33 (2025)mpg
34mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
14.3gal
11.8gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
183.5in
171.9in
Width (in)
73.4in
70.9in
Height (in)
66.3in
64in
Wheelbase (in)
108.5in
104.9in
Curb Weight (lbs)
—
3063lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
1653lbs
—
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
—
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
—
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Tie
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Kicks
Practicality
Sportage
Pros & Cons
KIA Sportage
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Nissan Kicks
Lower starting price ($26,120)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Sportage or Kicks?
The Sportage produces 187hp @ 6100 and 178lb-ft @ 4000 of torque while the Kicks delivers 141hp @ 6000 and 140lb-ft @ 4000 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Sportage and Kicks?
The Sportage starts from $34,290 and the Kicks from $26,120. The Kicks is cheaper by $8,170 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Sportage or Kicks?
The Sportage has a braked towing capacity of 1653lbs and the Kicks can tow not specified. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Sportage or the Kicks?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.