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2026 Kia EV9 Review2026 Nissan Kicks Review
The redesigned 2026 Nissan Kicks grows up with more power, available all-wheel drive, and a tech upgrade that finally matches its bold look.
Overview
The 2026 Nissan Kicks is a subcompact SUV with a 2.0L engine, available all-wheel drive, and a standard 12.3-inch infotainment screen. It prioritizes value, efficiency, and modern safety tech in a budget-friendly package.
Carsforsale.com Score
8.5/10
Powertrain
Score
8/10
Interior
Score
8.25/10
Technology
Score
8.75/10
Value
Score
9.25/10
2026 Nissan Kicks Powertrain 8/10
Every 2026 Nissan Kicks uses a naturally aspirated 2.0L four-cylinder engine producing 141 hp and 140 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is now available across trims, a major upgrade over the previous generation.
Fuel economy remains a strong point. Front-wheel-drive models are rated at 28 city and 35 highway MPG, while all-wheel-drive versions dip slightly to 27 city and 34 highway MPG.
Around town, the Kicks feels responsive enough for its mission. The engine is not quick, but throttle response is improved over the old 1.6L setup, and the ride is composed on broken pavement. All-wheel-drive models add confidence in poor weather, though they trade a bit of acceleration for traction. This is a powertrain built for steady progress, not speed.
2026 Nissan Kicks Interior 8.25/10
Inside, the Kicks makes smart use of its boxier shape. Seating is comfortable for four adults, with supportive front seats and decent rear legroom for the class. Materials lean practical, but soft-touch surfaces are placed where it counts, and overall fit and finish feel solid.
Cargo space is a standout. With the rear seats up, the Kicks provides up to 30 cu-ft of cargo room, expanding to about 60 cu-ft with the seats folded. That puts it near the top of the subcompact SUV segment for usable space.
Controls are logically laid out, visibility is good, and the elevated driving position makes city traffic easier to manage. It is not luxurious, but it is thoughtfully designed for real-world use.
2026 Nissan Kicks Technology 8.5/10
Technology is where the 2026 Kicks makes its biggest leap. A 12.3-inch infotainment screen is now standard across all trims, paired with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interface is clean, responsive, and easy to learn.
Nissan Safety Shield 360 comes standard and includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. Higher trims add features like a surround-view camera system and adaptive cruise control.
Optional upgrades include a Bose Personal Plus audio system with speakers integrated into the front headrests, as well as subscription-based services like SiriusXM.
2026 Nissan Kicks Value 9.25/10
The base Nissan Kicks S trim, starting at $22,730, includes key features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and a full suite of driver assistance features. It works well for budget-focused buyers who still want modern tech.
At $24,470 the SV trim is the sweet-spot for most shoppers. It adds upgraded interior materials, available all-wheel drive, wireless phone charging, and optional cold-weather features.
The top SR trim, with an MSRP of $27,565, brings 19-inch wheels, sportier styling, available Bose audio, and advanced driver assistance features. It is for buyers who want maximum style and tech in a small footprint.
Compared to rivals like the Hyundai Venue and Chevrolet Trax, the Kicks stands out with available all-wheel drive and a richer standard tech package. Nissan backs it with a three-year, 36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Trims & Pricing
2026 Nissan Kicks Final Score 8.5/10
The 2026 Nissan Kicks is no longer just an entry-level crossover. With more power, available all-wheel drive, and a tech-forward interior, it competes confidently with newer, pricier rivals. It delivers exactly what a small SUV should: smart packaging, modern features, and strong value.
