2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2021 Nissan Kicks

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design that required some getting used to. Its blunt and bulbous nose, combined with black windshield pillars, gave it a unique appearance. However, over time, this design became more familiar and less striking. The Highlander’s styling included swollen haunches and cartoonishly-flared quarter panels, which could overwhelm the design, even with 20-inch wheels. The interior offered a two-tone look with leather upholstery in higher trims, but some details, like the instrument-panel shroud, felt cheap. The infotainment system was dominated by a 12.3-inch screen, which suffered from reflections on sunny days.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Kicks underwent significant exterior changes, adopting a bolder design with a deep V-motion grille and thinner, longer headlights. The Kicks SR trim featured LED headlights and fog lights, enhancing its sporty look. The rear design, reminiscent of the Nissan Leaf, provided a sense of proportion, though some elements appeared as afterthoughts. The Kicks offered a variety of paint options, including two-tone combinations, which added to its stylish appeal. The interior maintained high-quality materials, with new seat designs and a full center console armrest in higher trims, offering a more upscale feel.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, reducing total output to 243 horsepower. This change improved fuel efficiency, achieving 36 mpg combined, but at the cost of driving enjoyment. The Highlander Hybrid felt underpowered, especially on hills, and the engine noise was noticeable during acceleration. The steering was lifeless, and the ride suffered from unwanted body movement. However, the regenerative brakes were an improvement, and the SUV performed well on smooth roads.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks featured a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 122 horsepower, paired with a CVT and front-wheel drive. While not powerful, the Kicks offered a good power-to-weight ratio, making it nimble in city driving. The electric power-assisted steering and suspension contributed to its agility. The Kicks maintained composure on icy roads, though the CVT could be noisy under heavy acceleration. The Kicks offered standard traction control, stability control, and hill start assist, with improved rear disc brakes in higher trims. Its fuel economy was impressive, with a combined rating of 33 mpg.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid provided comfortable seating for the driver and front passenger, with power adjustments and heated seats. The second-row bench seat increased capacity to eight but felt narrow for three adults. The third-row seat was uncomfortable, with limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space was generous, with 48.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 84.3 cubic feet maximum. However, storage solutions were less accommodating than previous models.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks offered easy-to-reach controls and good small-item storage. The front seats provided best-in-class legroom, though hip room was limited. The rear seats accommodated adults comfortably. The Kicks featured a 60/40 split-folding rear seat and an electronic parking brake, freeing up console space. The available tonneau cover provided hidden storage in the cargo area.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with a comprehensive infotainment system, including Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The Limited trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL audio, and navigation. The system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons. Driver Easy Speak and a video rearview mirror enhanced convenience, while the driver information display offered detailed data.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks boasted a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Higher trims added features like Nissan Intelligent Key and remote engine start. The SR Premium Package included a Bose sound system with headrest speakers, providing immersive audio. A surround-view monitor and WiFi hotspot were available, enhancing connectivity and convenience.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, with enhancements like intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available from the LE trim. The Highlander received a five-star NHTSA rating and was expected to achieve a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks included Nissan Safety Shield 360, with features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. It had 10 airbags and additional safety features in higher trims. The 2020 model received Good marks from the IIHS and a four-star NHTSA rating, with improvements expected for 2021.