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June 18, 2026
Nissan Launches Second-Generation Kicks with Refreshed Powertrain
Nissan Kicks | Nissan Kicks
Nissan has fully redesigned its compact SUV, the Kicks, and begun sales. The actual vehicle was unveiled on June 17th at Roppongi Hills in Tokyo.
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
Front Face Inspired by an American Football Helmet
The Kicks, equipped with Nissan's unique hybrid system "e-POWER," has undergone a full model change. Both front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations will be available.
The second-generation model features a refreshed powertrain. It adopts a 5-in-1 "e-POWER" electric unit, which integrates five key components—motor, generator, inverter, reducer, and increaser—into a single, compact, lightweight, and highly rigid unit, a first for the Japanese market.
Combined with a 1.4-liter engine specialized for power generation, the overall powertrain is said to improve fuel efficiency and quietness.
Furthermore, a high-rigidity body and newly designed suspension provide stable cornering performance. The vehicle now suppresses jolts even over road imperfections.
The four-wheel-drive model also incorporates the "e-4ORCE" electric all-wheel-drive control technology. By integrating torque-enhanced motors and brakes, it achieves improved ride comfort during cornering and other maneuvers. This new four-wheel-drive model also features a SNOW mode for the first time in the Kicks lineup.
The body dimensions are 4,365mm in length, 1,800mm in width, and 1,610mm in height (1,615mm for front-wheel drive models). The exterior is characterized by a distinctive front face with a wide, horizontal grille and signature lamps, inspired by an American football helmet.
The top-tier G grade features gloss black painted exterior parts, including the bumper. Other grades have a dimple (polygon) pattern inspired by sneakers on the front bumper, side sills, and rear bumper, expressing a playful individuality.
At the rear, a U-shaped black graphic and a full-width taillight emphasize the SUV's presence.
The interior offers a modern and spacious feel. Class-leading legroom, headroom, and rear-seat width have been secured, and rear-seat comfort is enhanced with Zero Gravity seats, which reduce occupant fatigue, now also available on the left and right rear seats.
Grades are also available with Google built-in NissanConnect infotainment system and an integrated interface display featuring dual 12.3-inch displays.
ProPILOT is standard on all models, continuing from the previous version. The Intelligent Around View Monitor has been updated with new front wide-view, invisible hood view, and 3D view functions.
Additionally, the Intelligent Emergency Braking system, which supports collision avoidance by enhancing detection of pedestrians, oncoming vehicles, and crossing vehicles at intersections, is also included. Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention (BSI) & Blind Spot Warning (BSW), and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) are newly adopted, further strengthening rear safety support.
The body colors include a two-tone option with "Resonance Blue," said to express the advanced and clean nature of "e-POWER," among a total of nine variations.
Four types of front-wheel drive and four types of four-wheel drive grades are available. Prices range from 2,999,700 to 3,898,400 yen for front-wheel drive models, and from 3,349,500 to 4,248,200 yen for four-wheel drive models.
Contact Information
Nissan Customer Service Center
Tel. 0120-315-232 (9:00-17:00, excluding Dec 31 - Jan 2)
Learn More About the Nissan Kicks
Q. What is the background of the Kicks' development, and how has it established itself in the Japanese market?
The Kicks debuted in Brazil in 2016 as a compact SUV, initially rolled out globally with a gasoline engine. For its introduction to Japan, it was exclusively offered with e-POWER and sales began in 2020. Since then, it has been favored as a model that balances SUV presence with the quietness and acceleration unique to electric vehicles. This full model change marks the first comprehensive overhaul in approximately six years since its launch in Japan.
Q. What specific image does the development concept of the new Kicks, "Adult Playfulness," embody?
According to product planners, the development target was set at families with three members in their late 40s, focusing on those who value storytelling, new stimulation, and the intrinsic quality of products. The design team described the exterior concept as "Tough & Agile," aiming for an SUV that combines robustness with agility. The image of "high-end sneakers that stand out on the street" was a shared worldview throughout the development, exemplified by the sneaker box-inspired stage at the unveiling event and the dimple pattern on the bumpers, derived from sneaker soles.
Q. When will the outdoor-spec "ROCK CREEK" be released, and what are its main differences from the standard model?
The ROCK CREEK is a custom model handled by Nissan Motorsports & Customizing Co., Ltd. Its official announcement is scheduled for this summer, with sales expected this winter. The exterior features a black base, a dedicated three-slot silver front grille, a special front protector with "Lava Red" accents inspired by lava, and unique alloy wheels. The interior is also predominantly black, equipped with waterproof seats, and features Lava Red accents on the seats, door trims, instrument panel, and steering wheel. Following the popular X-TRAIL, it is planned to be available in both 2WD and 4WD (e-4ORCE) configurations. Prices are expected to be around 4 million yen (tax included) for the 2WD model and around 4.3 million yen (tax included) for the 4WD model.