Second-gen P16 Nissan Kicks debuts in Japan, with new 1.4L engine

The second-generation Nissan Kicks made its Japanese debut on 17-June 2026, with the model transitioning to an updated global platform.

This second-generation Kicks is different from the updated Nissan Kicks that just went on sale in Thailand; the new-gen model is developed on the CMF-B platform, while the Thai-spec car is developed on the older Nissan V Platform.

For the Japanese market, the Kicks is offered exclusively as an electrified model across four main equipment grades (X Simple Package, X, X+, and G), each available with a choice of two-wheel drive (2WD) or electric all-wheel drive (4WD). Key competitors in this segment include the Honda HR-V (Vezel) and Toyota Yaris Cross.

The exterior of the second-generation Kicks introduces a wider, more athletic stance featuring a horizontal front grille layout with integrated signature LED daytime running lights and full-width rear taillights. A high-rigidity body structure forms the basis of the updated chassis. Nine paint options are available, including two-tone combinations and a market-exclusive 'Resonance Blue' finish.

The cabin features expanded headroom, knee room, and rear-seat width. Soft-touch synthetic leather and fabric materials are applied to the dashboard, center console, and door trims. Nissan’s ergonomic Zero Gravity seats are fitted standard to both the front seats and the outboard rear seats.

Higher grades receive a dual 12.3-inch integrated display panel consisting of a digital instrument cluster and a NissanConnect infotainment system featuring built-in Google services (including Google Maps).

The Kicks debuts Nissan’s third-generation e-Power series-hybrid system in the Japanese market. The setup features a modular 5-in-1 electric powertrain unit that integrates the traction motor, generator, inverter, reducer, and increaser into a single, lightened assembly.

A naturally-aspirated 1.4-litre HR14DDe four-cylinder petrol engine acts purely as a generator to charge the battery pack. Driving power is delivered by the electric motor.

Active safety is governed by Nissan’s 360° Safety Assist suite. Standard across all model grades is the ProPILOT driver assistance system.

• Safety Features: Enhanced Intelligent Emergency Braking (autonomous emergency braking) handles pedestrian detection, oncoming traffic, and intersection crossing monitoring. Standard driver aids include Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention (I-BSI), and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

• Camera Systems: The standard Intelligent Around View Monitor (360-degree camera) includes upgraded viewing modes: Front Wide View, 3D View, and an Invisible Hood View to expose ground obstacles directly beneath the engine bay.

For us here in Malaysia, don't hold your breath for the arrival of the P16 Nissan Kicks here, as we are more likely to get the updated Thai model, given that our current Kicks are imported from Thailand.