Key Features of the 2026 Nissan Kicks

2.0-liter Engine with Available AWD

The latest Kicks replaces its previous powerplant with a 2.0-liter engine producing 141 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque, a notable gain that you feel in everyday responsiveness. Power routes through a continuously variable transmission that keeps the engine in its sweet spot for smooth, predictable acceleration around town or merging onto faster roads. Those who regularly encounter rain or light snow can opt for all-wheel drive. AWD models add a Snow drive mode and incorporate a more compliant rear suspension design than the front-drive version’s torsion-beam setup, which helps the vehicle feel settled over broken pavement. The result is a subcompact SUV that is easy to drive, confident in a variety of conditions, and economical with every mile.

Drive Modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, and Snow

Selectable drive modes let you tailor the Kicks to your day. Normal mode balances response and comfort, Eco mode helps smooth throttle inputs, and Sport mode sharpens responses for more immediate acceleration when you want a little extra punch. Choosing AWD brings Snow mode, which is designed to help the Kicks get off the line and maintain composure when roads are slick. The ability to switch character with a simple toggle is a quiet advantage of the Kicks—on a single drive you might commute in Eco, switch to Sport to merge decisively, and use Normal for the rest of the day. It’s a simple, effective setup that makes the Kicks feel more personal without complicating the controls.

12.3-inch Touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Mid and upper trims step up to a bright, 12.3-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen angled slightly toward the driver for better visibility. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, streamlining your routine by keeping cables out of the equation. An easy-to-navigate menu structure helps you tap through maps, calls, audio, and vehicle settings without hassle. For those who care about charging access, Kicks SV and SR supply a pair of front USB-C ports, and SR adds two more USB-C ports for rear-seat passengers. SiriusXM also arrives starting with SV. Audiophiles can look to the SR’s available 10-speaker Bose system with headrest-mounted speakers up front, which brings an immersive listening experience uncommon in this class.

Driver-Assistance Tech with Available Adaptive Cruise Control

The Kicks delivers a robust set of standard driver-assistance features that support your situational awareness and reduce fatigue. Automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert are all on the list. For added convenience on longer trips, available adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature helps you maintain a set gap to traffic and gently assists with steering input. Together, these technologies help you feel more confident whether you’re navigating a busy commute or heading out on a weekend trip.

Cabin Space, Zero Gravity Seating, and Versatile Cargo

The Kicks’s interior leans modern and practical, with controls placed logically and screens positioned for quick glances. Passengers benefit from Nissan’s Zero Gravity seats in the second row, which support a more natural posture over time. Storage is thoughtfully integrated, and the cargo hold is generous for the class—front-drive models offer more rear cargo space, while AWD variants trade a bit of volume for the added traction hardware. In real-world testing, an AWD Kicks accommodated eight suitcases behind the second row and 21 carry-on bags with the seats folded, underlining its flexibility for a compact footprint. On upper trims, a touch panel for the HVAC system simplifies climate adjustments, giving the SR a sleek, modern feel.