What To Know
- The Nissan Kicks has a slight edge in fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
- The Nissan Kicks has a slightly better fuel economy than the Lexus RX 350, with an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway compared to 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
- Both the Nissan Kicks and the Lexus RX 350 have received excellent safety ratings, but the Lexus RX 350 offers a wider range of advanced safety features….
In the realm of compact SUVs, the Nissan Kicks and the Lexus RX 350 stand as two formidable contenders. Both offer a blend of practicality, style, and performance. But which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Nissan Kicks and the Lexus RX 350 to help you make an informed decision.
Exterior Design
The Nissan Kicks exudes a youthful and sporty aesthetic with its angular lines and aggressive front grille. Its compact dimensions make it perfect for urban environments, while its bold colors add a touch of flair.
In contrast, the Lexus RX 350 presents a more sophisticated and elegant exterior. Its sleek curves and intricate detailing evoke a sense of luxury. The signature Lexus spindle grille and available LED headlights enhance its premium appeal.
Interior Space and Comfort
Inside the Nissan Kicks, you’ll find a surprisingly spacious cabin for its size. The front seats offer generous headroom and legroom, while the rear seats can accommodate two adults comfortably. The interior materials are of decent quality, but some hard plastics are noticeable.
The Lexus RX 350 boasts a more opulent and spacious interior. The supple leather seats provide excellent comfort and support, and the cabin is adorned with high-quality materials throughout. The spacious rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, making it ideal for families.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the Nissan Kicks is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 122 horsepower. While it provides adequate performance for daily driving, it can feel sluggish when accelerating at higher speeds.
The Lexus RX 350 offers a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower. This provides ample power for smooth acceleration and effortless highway cruising. The RX 350 also boasts a refined suspension system that absorbs bumps and provides a comfortable ride.
Fuel Efficiency
The Nissan Kicks has a slight edge in fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. The Lexus RX 350, on the other hand, delivers an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Technology and Features
The Nissan Kicks comes equipped with a user-friendly 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other standard features include a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system.
The Lexus RX 350 offers a more advanced infotainment system with a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen. It includes navigation, a premium audio system, and a variety of safety and convenience features. The RX 350 also boasts a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, and a wireless charging pad.
Safety Ratings
Both the Nissan Kicks and the Lexus RX 350 have received excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Kicks earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, while the RX 350 received a Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS.
Price and Value
The Nissan Kicks has a starting price of around $20,000, making it a more affordable option than the Lexus RX 350. The RX 350 starts at around $46,000, offering a higher level of luxury and performance.
Which One to Choose?
The choice between the Nissan Kicks and the Lexus RX 350 ultimately depends on your needs and budget. If you’re looking for a compact, fuel-efficient, and affordable SUV, the Nissan Kicks is an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize luxury, performance, and advanced features, the Lexus RX 350 is worth the investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: The Lexus RX 350 has a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine compared to the Nissan Kicks‘ 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine.
Q: Which SUV has a better fuel economy?
A: The Nissan Kicks has a slightly better fuel economy than the Lexus RX 350, with an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway compared to 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which SUV offers more advanced safety features?
A: Both the Nissan Kicks and the Lexus RX 350 have received excellent safety ratings, but the Lexus RX 350 offers a wider range of advanced safety features as standard, such as lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.