The Nissan Kicks has been named SUV of the Year 2026 by the Inter-American Automotive Journalists Federation (FIPA), a recognition awarded by automotive journalists from across the Americas. The announcement was made as part of the 22nd FIPA Awards and the 18th election of the FIPA SUV and Truck of the Year, with voting participation from 86 professional journalists representing 21 countries, from the United States to Chile and the Caribbean.
The redesigned Kicks represents a significant evolution for Nissan’s popular compact SUV. Originally launched in 2014 at the São Paulo Motor Show and introduced to the Latin American market in 2017, the Kicks has surpassed 730,000 units sold in the region, establishing itself as a key model for the brand.
The latest generation Kicks features increased dimensions, positioning it within the C-segment SUV category. The vehicle now measures 4365 mm in length, 1800 mm in width, and 1625 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2655 mm. Cargo space has as well been expanded to 470 liters, an increase of 38 liters compared to the previous generation. This shift in size allows the Kicks to compete in a higher segment, while the upcoming Nissan Kicks Play will capture its place in the B-segment.
The exterior design incorporates a more robust aesthetic, highlighted by a horizontal grille that visually widens the front fascia and sleeker headlights. The rear of the vehicle features a floating roof design and a more squared-off silhouette.
Inside, the cabin offers increased space and updated technology. A combined 24-inch display screen provides wireless connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, a 15W wireless charger, and four USB-C ports.
The Kicks is powered by a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with direct injection, producing 120 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque, paired with a dual-clutch transmission (DCT). It also includes an electric parking brake and paddle shifters.
Safety is a key feature of the recent Kicks, having achieved a five-star rating in Latin NCAP crash tests. The vehicle is equipped with Nissan Safety Shield 360, a suite of 23 technologies including front, side, and curtain airbags, Isofix child seat anchors, and a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). These ADAS features include lane departure warning and prevention, intelligent front and rear emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control with Stop&Move, front and rear parking sensors, and a 360° camera system with moving object detection.
The new Kicks is available in three trim levels in Argentina, with pricing details yet to be fully disclosed.
