Small crossover SUVs like the 2026 Nissan Kicks can be found from pretty much every major automaker that does business in America, but how many of them can boast styling inspired by sneaker culture and football helmets? In addition to its standout exterior, the 2026 Kicks is fuel-efficient, comparatively spacious for its segment, and, with its optional all-wheel drive (AWD) and 8.4 inches of ground clearance, it's well-equipped for some light off-road driving.
Interestingly, Nissan offers two vehicles wearing the Kicks nameplate. The first-generation model has been renamed the Kicks Play and is sold alongside the new second-generation model, simply called the Kicks.
2026 Nissan Kicks Pricing, Specs, and Release Date
- What’s New for the 2026 Nissan Kicks
- Design
- Powertrain
- Interior
- Technology
- Safety
- Pricing and Release Date
- Further Research
What’s New for the 2026 Nissan Kicks
The second-generation Nissan Kicks debuted for the 2025 model year, so updates for 2026 are few. The biggest news is that the old 7-inch screen is gone for 2026, making the larger and much nicer 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system standard across the board. That means wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included on every 2026 Kicks model. Additionally, a new Cold Weather Package for Kicks SV and SR models bundles heated seats, heated mirrors, and rear floor heater ducts.
Design
Nissan designers drew inspiration from sneaker culture and football helmets when styling the second-generation Kicks. Lower bodysides are highlighted by rocker panels designed to look like sneaker soles, and it’s not hard to draw comparisons between the front grille and a defensive lineman’s facemask. The boxy exterior shape pays dividends inside, with the Kicks boasting ample standard cargo space for an extra-small SUV.
In addition to the standard palette of black, white, and various shades of gray, Nissan offers the Kicks in unusual, fun multi-color hues, including Yuzu Yellow Metallic and Arctic Ice Blue Metallic, with contrasting black roofs, and a unique Gun Metallic shade accented by a Scarlet red roof.
Powertrain
All 2026 Nissan Kicks models are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 141 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent through an Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) to either the front wheels or, optionally, to all four wheels. Models equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) also benefit from a more advanced multi-link rear suspension setup than front-wheel-drive (FWD) models and feature a Snow mode for improved traction in the winter. FWD Kicks models are estimated to return 28 mpg in the city, 35 mpg on the highway, and 31 mpg combined. AWD models drop slightly to 27 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined.
Interior
Nissan’s comfortable, supportive Zero Gravity seats are available up front and in the two outboard rear positions, with S models featuring charcoal cloth and mid-grade SV models featuring an embossed fabric design. At the top of the line, the 2026 Kicks SR trim has a mix of leatherette and cloth upholstery with sporty red highlights. A flat-bottom steering wheel injects more sportiness into the Kicks’ cabin while an optional panoramic sunroof lets in plenty of light.
Technology
All 2026 Nissan Kicks models include a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system boasting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Kicks SV and SR models benefit from a wireless smartphone charger, and the top SR trim level gets four USB-C ports instead of two. Kicks SR models offer a Premium Package that features a Bose Personal Plus audio system with 10 speakers, two of which are UltraNearfield units mounted in the front seat headrests.
