by Second-generation Nissan Kicks debuts in Japan: hybrid, all-wheel drive, and off-road Rock Creek version
The second-generation Nissan Kicks has been available since 2024 in North America, but other markets continued receiving updated versions of the original model. Now Nissan has finally introduced the new Kicks in Japan, dropping the gasoline engine used in the American version in favor of an exclusively hybrid lineup. Additionally, the local lineup includes the Rock Creek version with off-road styling and a waterproof interior.
e-Power hybrid powertrain and e-4ORCE system
Under the hood of the Japanese Kicks is a new e-Power hybrid system, available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. It combines a 1.4-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine, which operates solely as a generator for the lithium-ion battery, and one or two electric motors.
The internal combustion engine produces 97 hp (72 kW / 98 PS), the front electric motor generates 141 hp (105 kW / 143 PS), and the additional rear electric motor in the e-4ORCE system adds another 67 hp (50 kW / 68 PS). Nissan claims the new setup improves fuel efficiency by more than 10% compared to its predecessor.
Design and features
Visually, the Japanese Kicks is nearly identical to the American model, except for clear turn signal indicators and a different color palette, which includes a Resonance Blue shade. Base trims X and X+ feature textured plastic cladding, while the flagship G gets more modern LED headlights and 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels.
Inside, the most noticeable difference is the right-hand drive layout. The dashboard is equipped with two 12.3-inch displays and a practical shelf for resting the hand while using the touchscreen. Depending on the trim, available features include Zero Gravity seats, vegan perforated leather, a 100 V AC outlet for powering external devices, and the comprehensive ProPilot driver assistance system.
Rock Creek version: a more rugged Kicks
The highlight of the Japanese lineup is the Kicks Rock Creek, developed by the Nissan Motorsports & Customize (NMC) division. It is distinguished by triple silver inserts on the grille, black inserts on the front bumper, Lava Red body accents, aluminum underbody-style skid plates, and robust five-spoke alloy wheels. Inside, the Rock Creek version features Lava Red stitching and waterproof seat upholstery.
The Kicks Rock Creek will officially debut later this summer, with deliveries to customers in Japan beginning in winter. Nissan confirmed that the version will be available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, paired with the standard hybrid powertrain.
Recently, a camouflaged prototype with covered bumpers and a special roof rack was spotted on U.S. roads. This suggests that an off-road version may appear on the American market for the 2027 model year, though possibly with regional variations.
Pricing and comparison
Prices for the Kicks in Japan start at ¥2,999,700 ($18,700) for the base front-wheel-drive trim and go up to ¥4,248,200 ($26,500) for the flagship G with all-wheel drive. As for the upcoming Rock Creek version, its cost is estimated at ¥4,000,000-4,300,000 ($25,000-26,800) when it hits the roads this winter. For comparison, the recommended retail price of the non-electrified American model currently ranges from $22,730 to $27,565.
Thus, the Japanese Kicks offers a more advanced hybrid powertrain, which, according to the manufacturer, is more economical than its predecessor, and also expands possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts with the Rock Creek version. At the same time, the price of the hybrid in Japan turns out to be lower than that of the gasoline version in the U.S., making it an attractive proposition in the domestic market. The appearance of a camouflaged prototype in the U.S. hints at a possible global expansion of the lineup, which could intensify competition in the compact crossover segment.
