Nissan has introduced the third-generation Kicks crossover SUV in the Japanese market with substantial exterior and interior changes, along with a new e-Power strong hybrid engine. The new Kicks has been positioned below the Nissan Qashqai e-Power model in Japan, and its pricing starts at approximately AED 68,276 (as of today’s exchange rate).

2026 Nissan Kicks e-Power Hybrid: Exterior details

The new Kicks e-Power Hybrid is based on an all-new Renault-Nissan co-developed platform. The new CMF-B platform is also used on the new Renault Duster as well.

With the new platform, the Kicks e-Power Hybrid is now more capable, efficient, and safer than ever before. In terms of size, it measures 4365 mm in length, 1800 mm in height, and 1615 mm in width. It offers a generous wheelbase of 2655 mm.

The exterior design is now all-new, as it gets inspiration from the helmets of the American football players. The bonnet has two raised scoops, and the rear fender haunches are wider now.

The immediately noticeable exterior changes include the new horizontal LED headlights with slender daytime running lights, a black grille with horizontal slats, and a streamlined front bumper with oval LED foglights. 

The rear design gets a raked windshield, a roof-mounted spoiler, and a set of connected LED taillights via a black garnishing. The side profile has the big 19-inch dual-tone alloys, conventional door handles, and functional roof rails.

Overall, the new-gen Kicks e-Power Hybrid looks sporty and modern. It does feel like a proper upgrade compared to the version we get in the Middle East.

What is new on the inside?

The cabin design of the Kicks e-Power Hybrid has been inspired by the Nissan Patrol Y63. The black cabin theme is draped in leather upholstery, and the dashboard features a new three-spoke steering wheel and a connected display unit.

The new Kicks remains a five-seater SUV, and the redesigned door pads, central console, and seats now offer more storage spaces and comfort. The stepped dashboard features the soft-touch leather along with HVAC controls under the central AC vents.

New features include Nissan’s latest Level 2 ADAS safety system, a new 12.3-inch infotainment screen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, a new 12.3-inch digital instrument console, a wireless charging pad, driving modes, traction modes, terrain modes (on the AWD), and voice commands.

What powers the 2026 Nissan Kicks e-Power Hybrid?

The new Kicks e-Power Hybrid gets a brand-new 1.4-litre three-cylinder naturally aspirated engine. This unit replaces the outgoing 1.2-litre engine, hence offering quieter performance and more efficiency, along with improved performance.

Additionally, it features a new ‘5-in-1’ electrified unit that integrates the electric motor, generator, inverter, reduction gear, and speed increase motor in one compact compartment. This helps in increasing the efficiency of the self-charging hybrid system and reduces the weight.

While the standard variant comes with a front-wheel drive, the new Kicks e-Power Hybrid also features the “e-4orce” AWD system on the mid- and top-spec variants. This system has been fitted for the first time on the Kicks.

Will it launch in the UAE?

We suspect that Nissan will not bring the new-generation Kicks e-Power Hybrid to the UAE or the Middle East. However, the non-hybrid version could possibly be launched in the future, as the current model of Kicks has started to feel outdated in the region, especially after facing stiff competition from the Chinese car brands.

Meanwhile, you can search for the best used Nissan Kicks cars with Cars24 UAE.

Also read: Jaecoo J8 launched in the UAE at AED 121,900 - Nissan Pathfinder rival