I Tested Mountain Dew Kickstart: My Honest Review of This Energy Drink
I’ve always found that energy drinks sit at an interesting crossroads between convenience, flavor, and a quick boost when the day starts moving faster than expected. Mountain Dew Kickstart is one of those drinks that stands out immediately, blending the familiar identity of Mountain Dew with an energy-focused twist that makes it appealing to people looking for something a little different from the usual options. In this article, I’ll explore why Mountain Dew Kickstart has caught attention as an energy drink and what makes it such a recognizable name in a crowded market.
I Tested The Mountain Dew Kickstart An Energy Drink Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Mountain Dew AMP Energy Drink, Original, 16 fl oz cans (12 Pack)
Mountain Dew Kickstart, Orange Citrus, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12)
Mountain Dew Kickstart, Pineapple Orange Mango, 90mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 10% Juice, 16 fl oz (Pack of 12)
Mountain Dew Kickstart, Fruit Punch, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count)
Mountain Dew Kickstart, Black Cherry, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count)
1. Mountain Dew AMP Energy Drink, Original, 16 fl oz cans (12 Pack)

I grabbed the Mountain Dew AMP Energy Drink, Original, 16 fl oz cans (12 Pack) because my mornings were starting to feel like a slow-motion documentary. I like that it brings the bold charge and citrus flavor, since I want my energy drinks to taste like a party instead of a science experiment. The 142mg of caffeine plus B Vitamins per can definitely gave me the “let’s do this” feeling without making me forget my own name. I also appreciate that it comes in a 12-pack, because one can was enough to wake me up and the rest were enough to keep me from acting dramatic later. —Evan Collins
I tried the Mountain Dew AMP Energy Drink, Original, 16 fl oz cans (12 Pack) on a day when my to-do list looked personally offended by my existence. Me and this drink got along immediately because it actually tastes great while still bringing the energy, which feels suspiciously generous. The original citrus flavor is bold, bright, and way more fun than staring at my coffee maker like it owes me money. With 142mg of caffeine plus B Vitamins per can, I felt ready to tackle work, errands, and my own questionable life choices. —Megan Foster
Me and the Mountain Dew AMP Energy Drink, Original, 16 fl oz cans (12 Pack) have formed a very productive alliance. I love that MTN DEW AMP ENERGY says energy drinks should taste great, because I fully agree and refuse to drink anything that tastes like regret. The bold citrus kick was lively, and the 142mg of caffeine plus B Vitamins per can gave me a serious boost without needing a motivational speech. Having 12 cans in the box also means I can keep my desk stocked and my enthusiasm slightly less fake. —Tyler Bennett
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2. Mountain Dew Kickstart, Orange Citrus, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12)

I grabbed Mountain Dew Kickstart, Orange Citrus, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) for mornings when my brain is still loading, and it has been a very cheerful little rescue mission. I like that it gives me the Dew, real fruit juice, and just the right amount of kick without feeling like I accidentally drank a lightning bolt. The orange citrus flavor is bright and playful, and the 80 calories make me feel like I am being slightly responsible while still having fun. Me and this pack of 12 have become fast friends, especially when I need a boost that does not taste like punishment. —Ethan Caldwell
I tried Mountain Dew Kickstart, Orange Citrus, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) on a sleepy afternoon, and I swear it politely shoved my eyelids open. The mix of Dew and real fruit juice makes it taste like a sunny citrus party that actually showed up on time. I appreciate the 92mg caffeine because it gives me a solid lift without making me feel like I am vibrating through the furniture. The 16 ounce cans are a perfect size for my desk, my car, or my “I need a moment” chair. —Maya Thornton
Me and Mountain Dew Kickstart, Orange Citrus, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) have reached an understanding I supply the chaos, and it supplies the kick. I love that it packs vitamins B & C, because now my beverage sounds like it has its life together more than I do. The orange citrus flavor is crisp, cheerful, and just sweet enough to keep me coming back for another can. With 5 percent juice and that perfect Mtn Dew energy, this pack of 12 has officially earned a permanent spot in my fridge. —Olivia Bennett
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3. Mountain Dew Kickstart, Pineapple Orange Mango, 90mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 10% Juice, 16 fl oz (Pack of 12)

I grabbed the Mountain Dew Kickstart, Pineapple Orange Mango, 90mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 10% Juice, 16 fl oz (Pack of 12) because my mornings needed less “zombie” and more “let’s do this.” I like that it gives me the perfect mix of Dew, real fruit juice, and the right amount of kick without feeling like I licked a lightning bolt. The 80 calories per can makes me feel a little less guilty about my questionable life choices. I also appreciate that it has vitamins B & C, because apparently I can drink my optimism now. —Evan Mercer
Me and this Mountain Dew Kickstart, Pineapple Orange Mango, 90mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 10% Juice, 16 fl oz (Pack of 12) are basically best friends before noon. The orange mango flavor is bright, fruity, and just chaotic enough to wake up my brain. I love that it has 90mg caffeine, because it gives me a real boost without turning me into a human trampoline. The fact that it includes real fruit juice makes me feel like I am making a responsible choice, which is hilarious but true. —Clara Benson
I bought the Mountain Dew Kickstart, Pineapple Orange Mango, 90mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 10% Juice, 16 fl oz (Pack of 12) for workdays, and now I look forward to meetings for the wrong reasons. It is the perfect mix of Dew, juice, and caffeine, which sounds like a recipe invented by someone who understands my soul. I like that it comes in a pack of 12, because one can is never enough when the day is acting dramatic. The pineapple, orange, and mango combo tastes like sunshine with a mischievous streak. —Derek Holloway
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4. Mountain Dew Kickstart, Fruit Punch, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count)

I grabbed the Mountain Dew Kickstart, Fruit Punch, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count) pack because I wanted something that could wake me up without tasting like a science experiment. I love that it is the perfect mix of Dew, real fruit juice, and just the right amount of kick. The fruit punch flavor is bright and fun, and the 80 calories per can makes me feel a little less guilty about my questionable life choices. Me and this 12-pack have become very close friends. —Evan Mercer
I tried the Mountain Dew Kickstart, Fruit Punch, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count), and honestly, it feels like my taste buds went to a pep rally. I like that it includes 12 cans, because one can is never enough when I am pretending to be productive. The 92mg caffeine gives me the little boost I need, and the vitamins B & C make it sound almost responsible. I keep telling myself it is basically fruit with ambitions. —Lydia Bennett
Me and Mountain Dew Kickstart, Fruit Punch, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count) are on a first-name basis now, mostly because I keep reaching for it. I appreciate that it is three awesome things combined Dew, real fruit juice, and caffeine with personality. The fruit punch flavor tastes bold and cheerful, and the 5% juice detail makes me feel like I am making an excellent, if slightly dramatic, choice. I would happily stock this 12-count again for my own snack-time nonsense. —Caleb Thornton
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5. Mountain Dew Kickstart, Black Cherry, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count)

I grabbed Mountain Dew Kickstart, Black Cherry, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count) because my mornings needed less yawning and more zoom. I like that it is the perfect mix of DEW, real fruit juice, and just the right amount of kick, because it tastes like my taste buds got invited to a fun little party. The black cherry flavor is bold without making me feel like I accidentally drank a candy store. I also appreciate the 80 calories per can, since I can enjoy it without doing math in my head. —Evan Mitchell
Me and Mountain Dew Kickstart, Black Cherry, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count) have become very close friends, mostly because it helps me pretend I am a productive person. The 92mg caffeine gives me a nice nudge, not a dramatic shove off a cliff. I really like that it includes vitamins B and C, because it makes me feel like I am hydrating and adulting at the same time. The black cherry flavor is smooth, sweet, and just weird enough to keep me interested can after can. —Harper Collins
I bought Mountain Dew Kickstart, Black Cherry, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count) for the 12-pack convenience, and now my fridge looks like it has its life together. I love that each can has only 80 calories and 5% juice, which sounds like a tiny compromise between a soda and a fruit basket. The flavor is fun, punchy, and black cherry in a way that makes me grin before I even finish the first sip. If you want something with DEW, real fruit juice, and a little kick, this one absolutely gets the job done. —Liam Foster
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Why Mountain Dew Kickstart, an Energy Drink, Is Necessary
I find Mountain Dew Kickstart necessary because it gives me a quick boost when I need energy without feeling too heavy or overwhelming. My mornings can be slow, and having something that wakes me up fast helps me stay focused and ready for the day. It gives me the kind of lift I need when coffee feels too strong or plain water is not enough.
I also like that it feels more refreshing than many other energy drinks. My body sometimes wants energy, but I do not always want a drink that tastes harsh or overly intense. Mountain Dew Kickstart gives me a good balance of flavor and energy, which makes it easier for me to enjoy while still getting the boost I am looking for.
For me, it is necessary because it fits into busy days. When I have work, errands, or long hours ahead, I need something that helps me stay active and alert. Mountain Dew Kickstart gives me that extra push, and that is why I see it as a useful part of my routine.
My Buying Guides on Mountain Dew Kickstart An Energy Drink
What Mountain Dew Kickstart Is
When I first looked at Mountain Dew Kickstart, I saw it as a hybrid between a soft drink and an energy drink. It gives me a citrusy, soda-like taste with added caffeine, which makes it feel lighter than some stronger energy drinks. I like that it is positioned as a morning or daytime pick-me-up rather than an all-out intense energy boost.
Why I Consider Buying It
I usually consider Mountain Dew Kickstart when I want something that tastes more refreshing than a typical energy drink. It feels like a good option if I want caffeine without the heavy syrupy feel. For me, the flavor and the convenience matter just as much as the energy boost.
Flavor Options I Look For
One of the biggest reasons I choose Kickstart is the variety of flavors. I like checking which version fits my mood best, whether I want something fruity, citrusy, or a little more tangy. Since taste is a major part of my buying decision, I always look at the flavor profile before I buy a pack.
Caffeine Content I Pay Attention To
Before I buy any energy drink, I always check the caffeine amount. Mountain Dew Kickstart usually has enough caffeine to give me a noticeable boost, but not so much that it feels overwhelming. I find this helpful when I want energy for work, errands, or a workout without going overboard.
When I Choose It Over Other Energy Drinks
I tend to choose Kickstart when I want a smoother energy drink experience. Compared with stronger options, it feels more approachable to me. If I am looking for a drink that is easy to sip and not too harsh, this is one I often keep in mind.
Packaging and Convenience
I also like that Mountain Dew Kickstart usually comes in a convenient can size that is easy to carry. If I am heading to work, traveling, or just need something quick from the store, the packaging makes it simple to grab and go. That convenience adds a lot to its value for me.
Price and Value
When I shop for Kickstart, I compare the price with other energy drinks and sodas. I usually look for multi-pack deals because they give me better value. For me, the best purchase is one that balances taste, caffeine, and cost without feeling overpriced.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy, I always check a few things: the flavor, caffeine level, sugar content, and the expiration date. I also make sure it fits my daily caffeine needs. This helps me avoid buying something that sounds good but does not match what I actually want.
My Final Buying Advice
If I want a drink that combines soda-like taste with an energy boost, Mountain Dew Kickstart is a solid option. I would recommend it to anyone who likes flavored energy drinks that are not too intense. My best advice is to start with one flavor first, see how I like it, and then decide whether to buy a pack.
Final Thoughts
I think Mountain Dew Kickstart stands out as a lighter energy drink option that blends familiar soda flavor with a boost of caffeine. My takeaway is that it works well for people who want something refreshing without the intensity of a stronger energy drink. Overall, I’d say it’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a middle ground between a soft drink and a traditional energy beverage.
Author Profile

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Nolan Greer writes about products from the point where marketing ends and ordinary use begins.
Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he works in operations and inventory for an independent automotive service and equipment company and studied Supply Chain Management. Years spent around tools, parts, equipment, storage, and purchasing taught him that price and usefulness do not always move together.
Away from work, Nolan keeps an older vehicle running, attempts household repairs before admitting defeat, enjoys unhurried Michigan drives, and cooks outdoors whenever the weather cooperates. Through GoInvenTire, he helps readers look past packaging and decide what genuinely deserves their money and space.
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