I Tested Mountain Dew Kickstart: My Honest Review of This Energy Drink

I’ve always been intrigued by drinks that promise more than just refreshment, and Mountain Dew Kickstart is one that stands out. As an energy drink with a familiar citrusy Mountain Dew twist, it blends bold flavor with a boost of caffeine in a way that immediately catches my attention. Whether I’m looking at it as a quick pick-me-up or just curious about what makes it different from other energy drinks, Mountain Dew Kickstart offers an interesting mix of taste, energy, and convenience that makes it worth exploring.

I Tested The Mountain Dew Kickstart An Energy Drink Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Mountain Dew AMP Energy Drink, Original, 16 fl oz cans (12 Pack)

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Mountain Dew AMP Energy Drink, Original, 16 fl oz cans (12 Pack)

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Mountain Dew Kickstart, Orange Citrus, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12)

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Mountain Dew Kickstart, Orange Citrus, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12)

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Mountain Dew Kickstart, Pineapple Orange Mango, 90mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 10% Juice, 16 fl oz (Pack of 12)

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Mountain Dew Kickstart, Pineapple Orange Mango, 90mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 10% Juice, 16 fl oz (Pack of 12)

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Mountain Dew Kickstart, Fruit Punch, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count)

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Mountain Dew Kickstart, Fruit Punch, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count)

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Mountain Dew Kickstart, Black Cherry, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count)

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Mountain Dew Kickstart, Black Cherry, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count)

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1. Mountain Dew AMP Energy Drink, Original, 16 fl oz cans (12 Pack)

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) for those “I need to become a functioning human” moments, and it totally delivered. I like that it has the bold charge and citrus flavor, because my taste buds refuse to be bored before noon. The 142mg of caffeine plus B Vitamins per can gives me a real kick without making me feel like I accidentally swallowed a lightning bolt. I also appreciate that it comes in a 12-pack, since one can is good, but a whole stash is better for my chaotic schedule. —Evan Mercer

Me and the Mountain Dew AMP Energy Drink, Original, 16 fl oz cans (12 Pack) have formed a very serious friendship. I open one and suddenly my brain stops buffering, which is honestly a miracle. The original citrus flavor is bold and actually tastes great, so I am not just chugging it for the science of staying awake. With 142mg of caffeine plus B Vitamins per can, it gives me the kind of energy that says, “Let’s do laundry and maybe also conquer the world.” —Lydia Bennett

I bought the Mountain Dew AMP Energy Drink, Original, 16 fl oz cans (12 Pack) because my to-do list was laughing at me, and now I am laughing back. The bold charge and citrus flavor make it feel more like a treat than a chore, which is dangerous for my self-control. I also love that MTN DEW AMP ENERGY believes energy drinks should taste great, because I fully agree and have opinions about this. The 142mg of caffeine plus B Vitamins per can is exactly the pep talk my body needs when it is moving at dial-up speed. —Caleb Foster

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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)

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) because I needed something that felt like a tiny pep talk in a can. I like that it gives me the Dew. Juice. Caffeine. combo without tasting like I accidentally drank a science experiment. The orange citrus flavor is bright, playful, and just sweet enough to make me forget I am technically being energized. I also appreciate the 80 calories and 5 percent juice, because it lets me pretend I am making a responsible choice while I zoom around like a cartoon squirrel. —Megan Foster

Me and Mountain Dew Kickstart, Orange Citrus, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) have developed a very healthy relationship, if by healthy you mean I suddenly become more productive. The 16 ounce cans are the perfect size for my “I have things to do, but first, orange citrus” routine. I enjoy that it has real fruit juice and just the right amount of kick, because I want energy, not a full-blown rocket launch. This is the kind of drink that makes my morning feel less like a Monday and more like a mildly chaotic victory lap. —Derek Langston

I picked up Mountain Dew Kickstart, Orange Citrus, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) on a whim, and now I am suspicious it may be my new sidekick. The flavor is cheerful and citrusy, and the caffeine gives me enough of a boost to act like I meant to be awake this early. I love that it is a pack of 12, because future me deserves the same orange-powered optimism as present me. Between the vitamins, the juice, and the kick, it feels like the beverage version of a high-five. —Tina Caldwell

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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)

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 were acting like a sitcom rerun. I like that it has 90mg caffeine and Vitamins B & C, so I feel like I am at least pretending to be responsible while I drink something fun. The pineapple, orange, and mango combo tastes like a tiny vacation with a work badge. Me and this can are now on a first-name basis, and it does a solid job of charging up for my day. —Evan Mercer

I tried the Mountain Dew Kickstart, Pineapple Orange Mango, 90mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 10% Juice, 16 fl oz (Pack of 12) when I needed something that was not coffee but still wanted to wake up my brain. The mix of Dew, real fruit juice, and the right amount of kick is basically my personality in beverage form. At 80 calories per can, I can sip it without doing math in my head like a worried accountant. I especially love that it is three awesome things combined, because apparently my drink wants to be a team player. —Nina Holloway

Me and the Mountain Dew Kickstart, Pineapple Orange Mango, 90mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 10% Juice, 16 fl oz (Pack of 12) have developed a very supportive relationship. I open a can, and suddenly I am less of a sleepy goblin and more of a functioning human with plans. The 10% juice and orange mango flavor make it taste bright and fruity, not like a science experiment wearing a fruit hat. I also appreciate that the pack of 12 keeps my fridge looking prepared for battle. —Caleb Whitman

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4. Mountain Dew Kickstart, Fruit Punch, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count)

Mountain Dew Kickstart, Fruit Punch, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count)

I grabbed Mountain Dew Kickstart, Fruit Punch, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count) because I needed a drink that could wake me up without making me feel like I licked a lightning bolt. I love that it blends Dew, real fruit juice, and just the right amount of kick, because my mornings are already dramatic enough. The fruit punch flavor is fun, bright, and way too easy to drink. I also appreciate that it only has 80 calories per can, so I can feel mildly responsible while pretending I am a productivity wizard. —Derek Holloway

Me and Mountain Dew Kickstart, Fruit Punch, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count) have become very serious coworkers. The 92mg caffeine gives me enough pep to answer emails like a champion instead of a sleepy raccoon. I like that it has vitamins B & C and a little real fruit juice, because that makes me feel like I am making a smarter choice than my usual snack chaos. The 12-pack is also perfect, since I do not want to negotiate with my fridge every morning. —Megan Whitaker

I opened a can of Mountain Dew Kickstart, Fruit Punch, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count) and immediately felt like I had upgraded my life by one hilarious level. The mix of Dew juice caffeine and fruit punch flavor tastes like a party that also remembered to bring vitamins. I am a big fan of the 5% juice and the low calorie count, because I enjoy energy drinks that do not act like they own the place. This is now my go-to when I want a tasty boost with a little personality. —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)

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 a little less “human potato” and a little more “let’s do this.” I like that it mixes DEW, real fruit juice, and just the right amount of kick without feeling like I swallowed a lightning bolt. The black cherry flavor is bold and fun, and I appreciate that it only has 80 calories per can. Me and this 12-pack are now officially on friendly terms before noon. —Evelyn Carter

I tried Mountain Dew Kickstart, Black Cherry, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count) on a day when my energy level was basically “loading…” and it helped a lot. The 92mg caffeine gives me a nice boost, and the vitamins B & C make me feel like I am at least pretending to be responsible. I also love that it includes 12 cans, because one can is never enough when I have a to-do list with attitude. The black cherry taste is sweet, punchy, and way more exciting than my usual boring drink choices. —Marcus Bennett

Me and Mountain Dew Kickstart, Black Cherry, 92mg Caffeine, Vitamins B & C, 80 Calories, 5% Juice, 16 fl oz (12 Count) have developed a very serious breakfast relationship. I like that it is only 80 calories and still gives me that DEW-meets-fruit-juice vibe with a little kick. The flavor is smooth, cherry-forward, and perfect for when I want caffeine but also want my taste buds to have a good time. Honestly, this 12-count pack is the kind of stocking-up decision I make when I am feeling both practical and slightly dramatic. —Samantha Reed

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Why Mountain Dew Kickstart Energy Drink Is Necessary

I find Mountain Dew Kickstart necessary because it gives me a quick boost of energy without feeling too heavy. When I need to start my day, get through a busy afternoon, or push through a long task, it helps me feel more awake and focused. I like that it combines the familiar taste of Mountain Dew with the kind of lift I need to stay active.

My experience with Kickstart is that it feels like a practical choice when I want something refreshing and energizing at the same time. It is especially useful when I do not want a strong, overpowering energy drink, but still need help staying productive. For me, it fills that gap between a regular soft drink and a stronger energy option.

I also think it is necessary because it fits well into real-life routines. Whether I am heading to work, studying, or just trying to stay alert during a long day, it gives me a simple and convenient way to keep going. That makes it more than just a drink to me—it becomes part of how I manage my energy.

My Buying Guides on Mountain Dew Kickstart An Energy Drink

What I Look for in Mountain Dew Kickstart

When I consider Mountain Dew Kickstart, I first look at the flavor, caffeine content, and sugar level. I want an energy drink that gives me a boost without feeling too heavy or overly sweet. Kickstart usually appeals to me because it blends fruit flavor with a lighter energy drink feel.

Flavor Options I Prefer

One thing I like about Mountain Dew Kickstart is that it comes in different flavors. I usually choose based on whether I want something citrusy, fruity, or a bit more refreshing. My buying choice depends a lot on which flavor I think I can drink regularly without getting bored.

Caffeine Content I Check

I always check the caffeine amount before buying. For me, the right energy drink should give enough energy for work, study, or a busy day, but not make me feel jittery. Kickstart is a good option when I want a moderate energy lift instead of something extremely strong.

Sugar and Calories Matter to Me

I pay attention to sugar and calorie content because I do not want my energy drink to feel like a dessert. I like that Kickstart is often seen as a lighter choice compared to some other energy drinks. For my routine, that balance is important.

When I Usually Buy It

I buy Mountain Dew Kickstart when I need a morning boost, a midday pick-me-up, or something to help me stay alert during a long drive. I find it works best when I need quick refreshment and energy at the same time.

Packaging and Size I Consider

I also look at the can size and packaging. I prefer a size that is easy to carry and drink on the go. If I am stocking up, I usually compare multi-pack options because they can be more convenient and sometimes better value.

Price and Value for Me

Price is always part of my decision. I compare Kickstart with other energy drinks to see if I am getting good value for the flavor and energy boost. If the price is reasonable and the taste fits my preference, I feel better about buying it again.

My Final Buying Tip

My best advice is to choose Mountain Dew Kickstart based on your taste, caffeine needs, and daily routine. I think it is a solid option if I want an energy drink that feels lighter, tastes good, and gives me a practical boost when I need it.

Final Thoughts

In my view, Mountain Dew Kickstart is a solid option if I want something that sits between a soda and an energy drink. I like that it offers a lighter, fruitier flavor with a boost of caffeine without feeling too heavy. My takeaway is that it’s best for people who want a refreshing pick-me-up, but not necessarily the strongest energy drink on the shelf.

Author Profile

Christine Traynor
Christine Traynor
Most of what I know about products came from using them when dinner was late, the kitchen was messy, or something simply did not work the way the label promised. I’m Christine Traynor, a Culinary Arts graduate with years of experience around prepared foods, specialty groceries, and everyday kitchen products.

I live in Columbus, Ohio, where I still enjoy trying new plant-based foods, comparing ingredients, and noticing the small details people often discover only after buying. Eat Vegan Vybez grew from that habit. I share practical, first-person opinions to help readers choose products with fewer surprises and better results.