The 2026 Nissan Kicks arrives with exciting updates to this stylish subcompact SUV. Its exceptional fuel efficiency stands out with front-wheel drive models achieving up to 35 mpg on highways.
Our detailed Nissan Kicks review reveals impressive features. The latest model keeps its appealing compact size at 171.9 inches long. The SUV leads its class with maximum cargo space of 60 cubic feet when you fold the seats. The 2026 model’s specs now include Intelligent All-Wheel Drive with Snow mode to handle tough weather conditions better. A standard 12.3-inch infotainment system comes equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across all trim levels.
Let’s dive into the updated 2026 Nissan Kicks features, trim levels, performance capabilities and tech offerings.
What’s New in the 2026 Nissan Kicks?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks comes with several improvements that make it more functional and comfortable. Dealers are stocking up their inventory as customers search “Nissan Kicks near me” or “Nissan Kicks for sale.” These upgrades make this subcompact SUV more competitive in its segment.
12.3-Inch Infotainment Display with Wireless CarPlay
A standard 12.3-inch infotainment display stands out as the most striking update across all trim levels. This bright touchscreen delivers better resolution and responds faster than older models. You won’t need cables cluttering your console anymore since wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity come standard.
Nissan’s latest user interface lets drivers customize their home screens and widgets. You can arrange your favorite functions for quick access. The system understands natural speech patterns better, which makes controlling navigation, media, and vehicle settings hands-free easier. Tech enthusiasts looking up 2026 Nissan Kicks specs will appreciate that the system supports over-the-air updates. Your vehicle’s technology stays current throughout ownership.
Cold Weather Package for SV and SR Trims
The new Cold Weather Package on SV and SR trims makes your morning commute much more comfortable in cold climates. This package has heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated side mirrors with LED turn signals built in.
Your car warms up quickly on frosty mornings. The package also comes with a windshield wiper de-icer system that keeps ice from building up on wiper blades in winter. This practical feature works well with the newly available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system mentioned in recent Nissan Kicks reviews. The compact SUV handles adverse weather conditions surprisingly well.
Updated Interior Touch Controls and Ambient Lighting
Nissan replaced many physical buttons with smooth, haptic-feedback touch controls on the center console and steering wheel. These controls vibrate slightly when pressed, giving you that premium feel usually found in pricier vehicles.
The cabin now features customizable ambient lighting with eight color choices. This lighting highlights the dashboard, door panels, and footwells. You can create your own atmosphere that changes with drive modes or your preferences. Control the lighting through the infotainment display or the Nissan Connect smartphone app.
These updates make the Nissan Kicks’s interior more modern while keeping its value proposition strong. While official Nissan Kicks pricing isn’t out yet, these premium features suggest the 2026 model will remain an excellent value in the subcompact SUV segment.
Trim Levels and Feature Breakdown
The 2026 Nissan Kicks comes in three trim levels that match different buyer priorities and budgets.
Kicks S: Standard Safety and Tech
You can get the base S trim for $22,430. This trim gives buyers great value with its standard 12.3-inch color touchscreen display that works with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety comes standard as the Kicks has the complete Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite. This package brings automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. The S trim comes with 16-inch steel wheels and a four-speaker audio system with Intelligent Cruise Control.
Kicks SV: Remote Start and Premium Options
The SV trim costs $24,170 and adds several features that make daily driving better. The Remote Engine Start System with Intelligent Climate Control lets you warm up or cool down your car before you get in. The SV also comes with silver roof rails, 17-inch steel wheels, and premium cloth seats. The automatic temperature control keeps things comfortable whatever the weather. The SV trim lets you add the Cold Weather Package – a bundle of heated front seats, heated mirrors, and rear floor heater ducts that make winter driving more pleasant.
Kicks SR: LED Headlights and Bose Audio
The SR trim sits at the top with a price of $26,660 for FWD or $28,765 for AWD. This trim level brings:
- LED signature headlights with daytime running lights
- 19-inch machine-finished aluminum-alloy wheels
- ProPILOT Assist semi-autonomous driving technology
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters
- Sport cloth seats with leatherette trim
The SR adds Intelligent Lane Intervention, an Intelligent Around View Monitor, and front/rear sonar sensors to the mix.
Available Packages: SV Premium and SR Premium
Premium packages are a great way to get more from your Kicks’ upper trims. The SR Premium Package brings a panoramic moonroof, Bose 10-speaker audio system with headrest speakers, and a heated steering wheel. The SV Premium Package adds similar upgrades that match the mid-level trim. You can also pick from optional packages that add lighting upgrades and the practical Cold Weather Package.
Performance, Fuel Economy, and Drive Modes
The 2026 Nissan Kicks comes equipped with a practical 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine. This powerplant generates 141 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 140 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm, providing reliable performance for daily driving while keeping fuel consumption low.
2.0L Engine with CVT Transmission
Nissan’s Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) works seamlessly with the engine. The powertrain features a friction-reducing mirror bore coating – a technology that Nissan first used in its legendary GT-R. This engineering enhancement helps deliver power smoothly and reduces fuel consumption in all driving conditions.
Drive Modes: Normal, Eco, Sport
Drivers can customize their Kicks’s performance with the standard drive mode selector. Daily commutes benefit from Normal Mode’s balanced power and agility. The Eco Mode adjusts acceleration and throttle response for better fuel economy. When you want more excitement, Sport Mode provides higher revs and responsive handling.
Fuel Efficiency: Up to 35 MPG Highway
The front-wheel-drive models deliver 28 city/35 highway/31 combined MPG, while AWD versions achieve 27 city/34 highway/30 combined MPG. The fuel tank holds 11.8 gallons (FWD) and 12.4 gallons (AWD). Careful drivers can expect highway ranges over 400 miles per tank.
Intelligent AWD with Snow Mode
The optional Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system monitors road conditions constantly and adjusts quickly to maintain grip on slippery surfaces. AWD models stand out with a dedicated Snow Mode and 8.4 inches of ground clearance. This clearance surpasses key rivals like the 2025 Hyundai Kona and 2026 Chevrolet Trax.
Interior Space, Safety Tech, and Connectivity
The 2026 Nissan Kicks stands out from its rivals by making the most of its interior space. This subcompact SUV packs surprising roominess and advanced technology into its compact frame.
Cargo Space: Up to 60 Cubic Feet
The front-wheel drive models pack an impressive 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. Folding the seats reveals up to 60 cubic feet. All-wheel drive versions provide 24 cubic feet behind the second row and expand to 50 cubic feet with seats down. Loading groceries or weekend gear becomes easy with the flat floor and practical hatch design.
Nissan Safety Shield 360 Features
Every trim level comes with Nissan Safety Shield 360, which delivers complete protection through six key technologies:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
- Rear Automatic Braking
- Blind Spot Warning
- Lane Departure Warning
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- High Beam Assist
ProPILOT Assist and Around View Monitor
The available ProPILOT Assist helps you stay centered in your lane and maintain safe following distances. This feature proves invaluable during stop-and-go traffic. Parking becomes a breeze with the class-exclusive Intelligent Around View Monitor that shows a 360-degree bird’s-eye view.
USB-C Ports and Wireless Charging
Power management is straightforward with USB-C ports throughout the cabin. All models feature two front ports, while the SR trim adds two more in the rear. The SV and SR trims include a wireless charging pad to reduce cable clutter. A standard 12.3-inch infotainment screen provides smooth connectivity through wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Conclusion
The 2026 Nissan Kicks brings major improvements to an already impressive subcompact SUV. A standard 12.3-inch infotainment system with wireless connectivity now comes in all trims, which changes how drivers connect with their vehicle. The new Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system makes the Kicks handle surprisingly well in all weather conditions.
The three trim levels fit different budgets and needs perfectly. Starting at $22,430, the base S trim packs great value with complete safety features. The SV adds convenient features like remote start, while the top-tier SR shines with premium additions and an optional Bose audio system.
This SUV’s fuel efficiency stands out at 35 mpg on highway drives. The Kicks’ interior feels much bigger than its compact exterior suggests, with up to 60 cubic feet of cargo space when you fold the seats. These features make it perfect for daily city drives and weekend getaways.
Inside, haptic touch controls and customizable ambient lighting give this budget-friendly vehicle an upscale feel. The safety package offers peace of mind, whatever trim level you choose.
The 2026 Nissan Kicks combines great tech, efficiency, and practicality at a competitive price. Anyone looking for a versatile subcompact SUV should check out this refreshed model when it hits dealerships.
Key Takeaways
The 2026 Nissan Kicks delivers significant upgrades that enhance its position as a value-packed subcompact SUV, combining improved technology, efficiency, and practicality at competitive pricing.
• Standard 12.3-inch infotainment with wireless connectivity across all trims eliminates the need for cables and provides premium tech features typically found in higher-priced vehicles.
• Exceptional fuel efficiency of up to 35 MPG highway paired with available Intelligent AWD makes it ideal for both daily commuting and challenging weather conditions.
• Best-in-class cargo space of 60 cubic feet with folded seats maximizes utility despite the compact 171.9-inch overall length, perfect for weekend adventures.
• Comprehensive safety comes standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite including automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, and lane departure warning across all trim levels.
• Three well-equipped trim levels starting at $22,430 offer excellent value progression from the feature-rich base S to the premium SR with ProPILOT Assist and Bose audio.
The 2026 Kicks successfully bridges the gap between affordability and premium features, making advanced technology and safety accessible to budget-conscious buyers without sacrificing practicality or efficiency.
FAQs
Q1. What are the key updates for the 2026 Nissan Kicks? The 2026 Nissan Kicks features a standard 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless connectivity across all trims, available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive with Snow mode, and a new Cold Weather Package option for SV and SR trims.
Q2. How fuel-efficient is the 2026 Nissan Kicks? The 2026 Nissan Kicks offers impressive fuel efficiency, achieving up to 35 MPG on the highway for front-wheel-drive models and 34 MPG for all-wheel-drive variants.
Q3. What is the cargo capacity of the 2026 Nissan Kicks? The 2026 Nissan Kicks boasts best-in-class cargo capacity, offering up to 60 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down in front-wheel-drive models.
Q4. What safety features come standard on the 2026 Nissan Kicks? All 2026 Nissan Kicks trims come standard with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, which includes features like Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Warning, and Lane Departure Warning.
Q5. What are the trim levels and starting prices for the 2026 Nissan Kicks? The 2026 Nissan Kicks is available in three trim levels: S starting at $22,430, SV at $24,170, and SR at $26,660 for front-wheel-drive or $28,765 for all-wheel-drive configuration.
