[2021-2024 Comparison] Nissan Kicks vs. Hyundai Kona: Which Compact SUV Reigns Supreme Down Under?

G’day! If you’re in the market for a stylish, city-friendly SUV that doesn’t break the bank, you’ve likely narrowed your search to the Nissan Kicks and the Hyundai Kona.

With the 2021-2024 models now highly sought after in the pre-owned market—especially high-quality JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) imports—it’s time to settle the debate. Which one fits your Aussie lifestyle? Let’s dive into the details provided by the experts at Roundabout Australia.

Whether it’s a tight spot in Sydney’s CBD or a busy shopping centre on the Gold Coast, parking matters.

• Nissan Kicks (Intelligent Around View® Monitor): The Kicks is a game-changer for those who dread parallel parking. Its 360-degree camera system gives you a bird’s-eye view, making it incredibly easy to judge the distance from the kerb. Its tight turning circle makes U-turns a breeze.

• Hyundai Kona (Smart Sensors): The Kona feels planted and compact. While it may not always feature the 360-degree view in base trims, its high-resolution reverse camera and parking sensors are snappy and reliable, offering great confidence in tight spots.

Australians love their gear—from surfboards to weekend camping kits. Space is non-negotiable.

• Nissan Kicks (The Space King): Despite its compact exterior, the Kicks offers a massive 716 Litres of cargo space. Combined with 111cm of front legroom, it feels significantly airier than most SUVs in its class.

• Hyundai Kona (The Driver’s Cockpit): The Kona offers a more “snug” and sporty feel. While its boot is smaller at roughly 544 Litres, the cabin materials often feel premium, and it’s perfectly sized for couples or solo adventurers.

Both models offer 4WD options for the 2021-2024 years, but the “feel” is world apart.

• Nissan Kicks e-POWER (Electric Drive, Petrol Fuelled): A favorite for JDM enthusiasts! The e-POWER system uses an electric motor to drive the wheels, providing instant torque and a silent, smooth 4WD experience on slippery roads. No plugging in required—just fuel and go.

• Hyundai Kona (Traditional Power): The Kona shines if you want “punch.” With its turbocharged engine options, it offers more raw horsepower for highway overtaking and a more traditional, mechanical AWD system that feels rugged on gravel tracks.

With petrol prices always on the move, saving at the bowser is a top priority.

The Kicks’ efficiency, especially in the e-POWER hybrid variants, makes it a standout for daily commuters looking to minimize their carbon footprint and their fuel bill.

• Choose the Nissan Kicks if: You want the best fuel economy, need room for your gear, and love the stress-free parking offered by a 360-degree camera.

• Choose the Hyundai Kona if: You enjoy a more spirited drive with more horsepower and prefer a sporty, futuristic aesthetic.

Ready to see these cars in person? Roundabout Australia specialises in sourcing top-tier, serviced pre-owned vehicles directly from Japan, ensuring you get the best tech (like the Kicks e-POWER) at an unbeatable price.

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