2026 Nissan Kicks Subcompact SUV is Nissan’s best SUV
The 2026 Nissan Kicks strikes a balance between affordability, style, and available options.
- When I first drove the new Kicks, I noticed that it had a more upright and imposing appearance than the ’24 model, which had only front-wheel drive and resembled a small wagon.
- After driving it for the second time, I came to the conclusion that this is Nissan’s best offering and a strong contender in a segment crowded with great cars.
Let’s take another look at the Nissan Kicks subcompact SUV that we drove for the first time in October 2024.
First impressions are great, but nothing beats getting to know a person, place, or vehicle better. As makes and models evolve, that’s why I’m sharing my experience after driving the car for a week or so.
This week’s car: 2026 Nissan Kicks SR AWD
What is it? 5-seater subcompact all-wheel drive SUV
how much? Pricing for the 2026 Nissan Kicks starts at $22,430 for the front-wheel drive base model. All prices exclude $1,495 destination charge.
I drove an all-wheel drive Kicks SR AWD with a standard price of $28,160. My test vehicle sold for $33,220, thanks to options that included Bose audio, a panoramic sunroof, heated steering wheel, front seats, and mirrors.
How are sales going? Nissan sold 103,575 Kicks in 2025. The Kicks is the brand’s third best-selling vehicle, behind the Nissan Rogue compact SUV and Sentra compact sedan.
What will it compete with? Chevrolet Trax and Trailblazer, Honda HR-V, Hyundai Venue and Kona, Kia Seltos, Mazda CX-30, Toyota Corolla Cross, VW Taos.
why do you want it? Kicks is a great value product with a distinctive, muscular look and attractive features.
What I thought when I drove for the first time
After a day of driving the Kicks around the suburbs surrounding Nissan’s Oakland County Technical Center, I wrote:
- The new Kicks has a more upright and impressive appearance compared to the 2024 model, which was front-wheel drive only and more like a small wagon.
- Kicks’ distinctive new design and low base price should help it gain attention in the competitive subcompact SUV market.
What I think about Nissan Kicks now
- The Kicks is the best argument for Nissan’s survival ever since the company was mired in management infighting and financial troubles.
- This is Nissan’s best offering and a strong contender in a segment packed with great cars.
- The optional Bose 10-speaker audio is a nice surprise in an entry-level vehicle.
- With its bold rear fender and 8.4 inches of ground clearance, the Kicks has a presence despite its small size.
what could be better
force. The Kicks’ naturally aspirated 2.0L four-cylinder engine makes less torque than the smaller turbo engines that power its leading competitors. It becomes obvious when accelerating onto the highway or passing through a busy intersection.
2026 Nissan Kicks key numbers and features
- Front wheel drive or all wheel drive
- 5 passengers
- 2.0L naturally aspirated engine
- 141 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque
- EPA fuel economy estimates: 27 mpg city/34 mpg highway/30 mpg combined. Regular gasoline. Estimated annual fuel cost: $1,450.
- Continuously variable transmission
- Wheelbase: AWD 104.9 inches. FF104.6 inch
- Length: 171.9 inches
- Vehicle weight as tested: 3,253 lbs.
- Passenger volume: 95.7 cubic feet
- Cargo Space: AWD: 23.9 cubic feet behind rear seats. 50.1 with the seats folded. FWD: 29.2 after rear seats; 58.5 with seats folded
- Assembled in Aguascaliente, Mexico
Contact Mark Phelan: 313-222-6731 or mmphelan@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @mark ferran. read more car and sign up for our service automotive newsletter. become a subscriber.
