There are not many changes to the 2026 Nissan Kicks, but there is still big news if you are interested in keeping your payment as low as possible. The base trim level now comes standard with the same 12.3-inch touchscreen found in pricier trims. It also gains wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring.
The base Kicks S trim previously included a 7-inch screen that lacked Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, whether wired or wireless. That changes for 2026, as every Kicks now comes with the same 12.3-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The other features added to the S for 2026 are SiriusXM satellite radio and two USB-C ports up front, where there was previously only one USB-A.
There are still differences in infotainment features across trims. The base S and SV trims have a four-speaker sound system. The SR comes standard with a six-speaker system, and an optional 10-speaker Bose sound system is available which includes speakers in the front headrests. The SV and SR gain a wireless smartphone charging pad, and the SR adds two USB-C ports in the rear. There are also differences in the instrument panel. The S and SV have a 7-inch digital display, while the SR has a 12.3-inch display.
As for safety technologies, every new Kicks continues to offer a robust set of features, including forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, reverse automatic braking, lane departure warning, blind spot and rear cross-traffic warning, a driver monitoring system, and adaptive cruise control. The SR trim adds lane keeping assistance, front parking sensors, and ProPilot Assist, which enhances adaptive cruise control with lane centering assistance and stop-and-go capability.
There is one other, non-tech-related bit of news for 2026. A new Cold Weather package debuts for the SV and SR, featuring heated front seats, heated mirrors, and rear floor heater ducts. Previously, Nissan bundled these features into the pricier Premium package.
Beyond these small but substantial changes, the 2026 Nissan Kicks remains the same surprisingly competent small crossover that offers far more equipment and interior space than you would expect at this price. Indeed, the starting price is $24,275, including the $1,545 destination charge. That’s only $1,055 more than in 2025, which is shockingly reasonable given inflation, a higher destination charge, and all the extra feature content for 2026.
Every 2026 Nissan Kicks comes standard with a 141-horsepower four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive (FWD), with all-wheel drive (AWD) available. Keep in mind, however, that the Kicks’ excellent cargo volume is significantly reduced when AWD is specified.
Fuel economy does not suffer much, however. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that the 2026 Kicks will return 31 mpg combined with FWD and 30 mpg combined with AWD.
Given the Nissan Kicks’ low price and strong overall value proposition, it would be wise to consider the Buick Envista and Chevrolet Trax, which offer similar value. The Hyundai Kona and Kia Seltos are other good choices, while the tiny Hyundai Venue is even cheaper than the Kicks.
Nissan is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of February 4, 2026, but it may have changed since then. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker’s website or your local dealership.
James Riswick has been testing and reviewing cars since 2007, serving as an editor at Edmunds.com and Autoblog. In addition to jdpower.com, he has also contributed to Autoguide Magazine, Autotrader, Capital One Auto Navigator, Car and Driver, and Hagerty. He resides in Southern California and owns a 1998 BMW Z3, a 2013 Mercedes-Benz E350 Wagon, and a 2025 Cadillac Optiq.
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