2026 Honda HR-V LX vs 2026 Nissan Kicks S
On paper, the 2026 Nissan Kicks S wins on $4,070 less, 3 MPG better. The 2026 Honda HR-V LX has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 158 vs 141 hp, 27 vs 30 MPG.
The Kicks S leads on $4,070 less, 3 MPG better. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 Honda HR-V LX | 2026 Nissan Kicks S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $28,000 | $23,930 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 158 hp | 141 hp |
| Torque | 138 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 27 | 30 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,600/yr | $1,450/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,276 lbs | 3,196 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.5" | 104.9" |
| Length | 179.8" | 171.9" |
| Width | 72.4" | 70.9" |
| Height | 63.4" | 64.0" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 4/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Honda HR-V LX and 2026 Nissan Kicks S?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks S starts at $23,930, $4,070 less than the 2026 Honda HR-V LX at $28,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $72/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda HR-V LX?
The 2026 Honda HR-V LX is the stronger pick when you prefer the Honda approach to the subcompact SUV segment.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Kicks S?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,070 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Kicks S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $156/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda HR-V LX or 2026 Nissan Kicks S?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks S rates 30 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda HR-V LX or 2026 Nissan Kicks S?
The 2026 Honda HR-V LX produces 158 hp, 17 more than the 2026 Nissan Kicks S at 141 hp. The 2026 Nissan Kicks S also leads in torque at 140 lb-ft vs 138 lb-ft.
Is the 2026 Honda HR-V LX bigger than the 2026 Nissan Kicks S?
The 2026 Honda HR-V LX is 7.9″ longer at 179.8″ vs 171.9″. The 2026 Nissan Kicks S has a 0.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda HR-V trims, Nissan trims, Nissan Kicks trims
- 2026 Honda HR-V LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Nissan Kicks S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the HR-V and Kicks Stack Up
Two subcompact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Honda HR-V LX ($28,000) and 2026 Nissan Kicks S ($23,930) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-4,070 gap adds up to $72/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: HR-V vs Kicks
Both run the same 2.0L I4 engine. The 17 hp difference (158 vs 141) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Nissan Kicks S saves roughly $156/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $780.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Honda HR-V LX when you prefer the Honda approach to the subcompact SUV segment. Choose the 2026 Nissan Kicks S when you want to keep $4,070 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Kicks S covers your needs.
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 Honda or Nissan or any dealership.