An Important Cheap Nissan SUV
The Kicks is crucial to Nissan’s American lineup. Its appeal is straightforward: it is one of the cheapest SUVs available right now, still priced under $25,000 amid increasing price tags. For buyers looking for cost-efficient transport, the Kicks has served as a gateway into Nissan’s SUV range without straining budgets.
That balance hinges on keeping its pricing in check, and Nissan has managed to do so even with the arrival of the new-generation model for this year.
For 2026, however, prices do climb across the range, with increases between $480 and $600 depending on trim. The entry-level S FWD now starts at $22,430 before destination, while the range-topping SR AWD comes in at $28,160. The question is whether the updates are enough to justify the higher cost, or if shoppers would be better off looking at leftover 2025 inventory.
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Inventory and Discounts on 2025 Models
A scan of Cars.com listings shows that there is no shortage of 2025 Kicks still sitting on dealer lots. More than 14,500 units are currently available, with the bulk made up of SV and SR trims. The Kicks S, which is the base model, has around 2,000 units in stock and is being offered for as low as $18,740, though most hover closer to $18,975. Discounts on these entry-level models average between $3,000 and $4,000, which is significant for a vehicle already positioned as a budget SUV.
The SV trim, which makes up the largest share of inventory at over 6,500 units, is being listed with lighter discounts, typically in the $1,000 to $2,000 range. Pricing starts at $21,623. The SR, meanwhile, has more than 6,000 units available and is being advertised with discounts up to $4,000, bringing some listings down to just above $24,000.
The volume of unsold stock, particularly for higher trims, suggests that further incentives may emerge as dealers work to clear the way for 2026 models. The discounts may even deepen as soon as 2026 models hit dealership lots.
What Buyers Gain in 2026
Those considering the newer model will find a few important upgrades in the 2026 models. The base S trim now comes standard with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, which replaces the outdated 7-inch unit and now includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There are two front USB-C ports, ensuring better compatibility with modern devices. A new Cold Weather Package is available on SV and SR trims, bundling heated front seats, heated mirrors, and rear floor heater ducts.
Safety equipment remains the same across the range, with Safety Shield 360 standard – Intelligent Cruise Control on S and SV trims, and ProPILOT Assist reserved for SR. Cargo space and ground clearance figures carry over, meaning that buyers of 2025 models won’t be shortchanged for typical daily use.
For those who want better infotainment, the 2026 Kicks S has the edge, but it is still worth thinking about, considering the hefty discount on the 2025 models. However, if you’re eyeing the mid- and top-spec SV and SR trims, there isn’t any incentive going for the 2026 models – unless you live in cold states, then the new Cold Weather Package is perfect for you.
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About the author
Jacob Oliva
Senior Editor, Autoblog