Nissan launched the all-new, second-generation Kicks in Japan, with sales starting June 18, 2026 and prices spanning ¥2,999,700 to ¥4,248,200 (about $18,700 to $26,500). The compact SUV adopts a newly developed third-generation e-POWER system and pairs it with e-4ORCE electric all-wheel control, which makes its Kicks debut. The company reports the updated powertrain significantly improves fuel efficiency over the outgoing model.
Highlights
- The Kicks adopts a 5-in-1 e-POWER unit modularizing five components — motor, generator, inverter, reducer, and increaser — paired with a 1.4-liter HR14DDe dedicated power-generation engine.
- e-4ORCE electric all-wheel control enters the Kicks lineup for the first time, with a newly added Snow Mode on e-4ORCE grades.
- Eight grades span 2WD and 4WD, priced from ¥2,999,700 to ¥4,248,200 (about $18,700 to $26,500), including consumption tax.
- ProPILOT is standard across all grades, joined by newly adopted Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention, Blind Spot Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Third-Generation e-POWER and e-4ORCE
The all-new Kicks uses a completely updated powertrain built around a newly developed 5-in-1 e-POWER electric powertrain unit, adopted for the first time in the Japanese market. The unit integrates five core components — motor, generator, inverter, reducer, and increaser — for improved compactness, reduced weight, and increased rigidity. A 1.4-liter dedicated power-generation engine (HR14DDe) supplies electricity to the system.
The Kicks also gains Nissan’s e-4ORCE electric all-wheel control technology. By combining high-torque motor output with brake control, the system manages cornering response and ride comfort. A high-rigidity body and newly designed suspension support stable handling and reduce vibration over uneven surfaces, and a newly introduced Snow Mode on e-4ORCE grades is intended for low-traction conditions including snow.
Akira Sugimoto, corporate executive responsible for Japan Marketing & Sales, commented: “Kicks is a core model for Nissan, and it plays an important role in delivering the value of electrification technologies to more customers; by introducing the third-generation e-POWER for the first time in the Japanese market. This model reflects Nissan’s distinctive commitment to design, driving performance, and comfort, delivering a model that stimulates a touch of refined playfulness for discerning customers.”
Exterior and Interior
The exterior features a front fascia inspired by an American football helmet, with a wide horizontal grille and signature lighting. The top G grade adds a gloss black finish on components such as the bumpers, while the X, X+, and X Simple Package grades carry a dimple (polygon) pattern inspired by sneaker soles on the front bumper, side sills, and rear bumper. A rectangular black graphic and full-width taillights mark the rear.
Inside, soft-touch synthetic leather and fabric are used on the instrument panel, center console, and door trims. The company reports class-leading knee room, headroom, and rear seat width, with Zero Gravity seats for the front and rear outboard positions. A NissanConnect infotainment system with built-in Google and a dual 12.3-inch display interface are offered depending on grade. A new exterior color, Resonance Blue, joins a palette of nine body colors, including two-tone options.
Expanded Safety Technologies
Under Nissan’s 360° Safety Assist suite, ProPILOT remains standard across all grades. The Intelligent Around View Monitor adds Front Wide View, Invisible Hood View, and 3D View functions to help visualize blind spots, including obstructed intersections and areas hidden by the hood. The Intelligent Emergency Braking system has been enhanced to improve detection of pedestrians, oncoming vehicles, and crossing traffic at intersections. Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention, Blind Spot Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are newly adopted to strengthen rear-side support.
Pricing and Grades
All grades use the 1.4-liter HR14DDe generator engine. Recommended retail prices include consumption tax; USD figures are approximate.
| Grade | Driveline | Price (¥) | Approx. USD |
|---|---|---|---|
| X Simple Package | 2WD | 2,999,700 | $18,700 |
| X | 2WD | 3,259,300 | $20,300 |
| X+ | 2WD | 3,549,700 | $22,100 |
| G | 2WD | 3,898,400 | $24,300 |
| X e-4ORCE Simple Package | 4WD | 3,349,500 | $20,900 |
| X e-4ORCE | 4WD | 3,599,200 | $22,500 |
| X+ e-4ORCE | 4WD | 3,889,500 | $24,300 |
| G e-4ORCE | 4WD | 4,248,200 | $26,500 |
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