The 2026 Kia Seltos and 2026 Nissan Kicks are subcompact SUVs that were either freshly updated or completely redesigned within the last two years.
A significant update for 2024 gave the Kia Seltos updated styling, more power from the optional turbo engine, and more available tech. Now there are even more standard features with each trim level, adding more to this SUV’s value. Kia has also reconfigured the Seltos’ trim levels; the X-Line has been discontinued, there’s a new front-wheel-drive (FWD) LX trim, and the base price is lower for 2026.
The Nissan Kicks was all-new for 2025 — larger, more powerful, and with the option of all-wheel drive (AWD) for the first time — and for 2026, the 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen comes standard.
Let’s take a closer look at some highlights of the Kia Seltos and Nissan Kicks.
2026 Kia Seltos
The Seltos starts at $25,135 including destination fees, and is available in four trims: LX, S, EX, and SX. Even the entry-level version of the Seltos comes with all-important Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (and it’s wireless!), multiple USB ports, an 8-inch touchscreen, keyless entry, and a dual-level cargo floor.
Kia Seltos Highlights
Available AWD: All-wheel drive is standard equipment on the SX model. It’s optional on the LX, S, and EX trims.
Passenger stretch-out space: Yes, the Kia Seltos is a charming subcompact SUV, yet it’s surprisingly roomy for its downsized footprint. Kia did an excellent job of designing the interior to create a surprising degree of headroom and legroom for those seated in either the first or second row.
Dual-screen infotainment display: A 10.25-inch digital instrument display and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen are standard in every Seltos, except the base LX. This sleek layout wouldn’t look out of place in a bigger SUV costing thousands more than this budget-friendly Kia.
Optional turbo 4-cylinder: For most people, the Seltos’ entry-level 147-hp 4-cylinder is a fine combination of power and fuel efficiency. Yet, for anyone looking for more straight-line speed, there’s an optional turbo 4-cylinder that provides 190 hp.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the new Seltos models for sale near you.
2026 Nissan Kicks
The Kicks has been part of Nissan’s lineup since 2018. It’s now in its second generation, and the brand’s least-expensive SUV continues to be a hit. It became even more competitive with the option of all-wheel drive. The Kicks boasts buzzy style with vibrant colors, loads of technology, and plenty of safety systems.
Nissan Kicks Highlights
Nissan Safety Shield 360: Standard on every Kicks model, this suite includes active safety features like front and rear automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and more.
12.3-inch touchscreen: All trims of the 2026 Kicks bring a prominent 12.3-inch touchscreen, along with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. To get the wireless charging pad, choose the SV or SR trim. Based on that and other included features, we recommend the SV trim for its combination of features at this price point.
Bose audio: The Kicks also offers a premium audio system with speakers in the front headrests. In this case, it’s a 10-speaker Bose system that’s optional in the SR model.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the new Kicks models for sale near you.
Similarities
The Kia Soul and Nissan Kicks are both subcompact SUVs that seat five, offer similar cargo capacity, boast great fuel economy, and feature value pricing.
Pricing
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2026 Kia Seltos vehicles and New 2026 Nissan Kicks vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2026 Kia Seltos | 2026 Nissan Kicks | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Towing Capacity | N/A | N/A |
| Horsepower | 147 hp @ 6,200 rpm | 141 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm | 140 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm |
| Transmission | Automatic, IVT | Automatic, Xtronic CVT |
| Fuel Economy | 28 city/34 highway/31 combined mpg | 28 city/35 highway/31 combined mpg |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 10 years/100,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 5 stars | 4 stars |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 103.5 inches | 104.6 inches |
| Overall Length | 172.6 inches | 171.9 inches |
| Width | 70.9 inches | 70.9 inches |
| Height | 63.6 inches | N/A |
| Turning Diameter | 34.8 feet | N/A |
| Headroom, Front | 40.0 inches | 39.7 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 38.4 inches | 38.5 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.4 inches | 42.7 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 38.0 inches | 34.5 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 55.5 inches | 54.7 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 54.9 inches | 54.7 inches |
| Cargo Behind Second Seat | N/A | N/A |
| Cargo With All Seats Down | 62.8 feet | 60.0 feet |
Specification table reflects the typical configuration of vehicles shown.
Conclusion
With a similar roster of features and specs, this comparison comes down to the details. While the Kicks has a lower starting price, a larger touchscreen, and very comfortable seats (a must-have for commuters), the Seltos, which is roomier, more powerful, has a choice of two engines, and has one of the best warranties in the industry: 10 years/100,000 miles of protection for the powertrain. The right small SUV for you depends on your priorities.
