2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV vs 2026 Nissan Kicks SR
$2,860 less and 22 more lb-ft torque vs AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $2,860 price gap, 137 vs 141 hp, 29 vs 30 MPG.
The Trax ACTIV leads on $2,860 less, 22 more lb-ft torque. The Kicks SR leads on AWD. The spec table compares 8 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 8 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV | 2026 Nissan Kicks SR |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $25,300 | $28,160 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.2L I3 flex-fuel Turbo | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 137 hp | 141 hp |
| Torque | 162 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 28 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 30 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,500/yr | $1,450/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,036 lbs | 3,253 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.0" | 104.9" |
| Length | 178.6" | 171.9" |
| Width | 71.8" | 70.9" |
| Height | 61.7" | 64.0" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 4/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 6yr/100k | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV and 2026 Nissan Kicks SR?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV starts at $25,300, $2,860 less than the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR at $28,160. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $50/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,860 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV or 2026 Nissan Kicks SR?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR rates 30 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV or 2026 Nissan Kicks SR?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR produces 141 hp, 4 more than the 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV at 137 hp. The 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV also leads in torque at 162 lb-ft vs 140 lb-ft. The 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV runs a 1.2L I3 flex-fuel Turbo; the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR uses a 2.0L I4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV, AWD on the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR.
Is the 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV bigger than the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV is 6.7″ longer at 178.6″ vs 171.9″. The 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV has a 1.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV and 2026 Nissan Kicks SR have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR comes with AWD, while the 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Trax trims, Nissan trims, Nissan Kicks trims
- 2026 Nissan Kicks SR Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Trax–Kicks Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Trax and Kicks compare. The $2,860 gap adds up to $50/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV runs a 1.2L I3 flex-fuel Turbo; the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR uses a 2.0L I4. The 4 hp difference (141 vs 137) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR comes with AWD; the 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
The Ownership Math
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV when you want to keep $2,860 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Trax ACTIV covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. At $50/month more, the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Chevrolet or Nissan or any dealership.