Nissan Kicks e-POWER Facelift Launches in Philippines

Nissan Kicks e-POWER Facelift: Entity Definition and Malaysian Context

The Nissan Kicks e-POWER facelift is a subcompact crossover SUV featuring Nissan's series-hybrid e-POWER drivetrain, where a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine acts solely as a generator for an electric motor that drives the wheels. Manufactured by Nissan Motor Corporation and launched in the Philippines on 31 August 2026, this updated model introduces revised exterior styling, a 12.3-inch infotainment display, and the ProPILOT driver-assistance suite. For Malaysian users, the e-POWER system offers an EV-like driving experience without requiring a charging station, making it relevant for urban commuters in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya who lack home charging access. The official Malaysian distributor is Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM), which currently offers the pre-facelift version.

The Nissan Kicks e-POWER facelift is a series-hybrid subcompact SUV that combines a 1.2-litre petrol generator with a 136 PS electric motor, eliminating the need for external charging.

Key Facts

This section provides the core specifications and pricing data for the Nissan Kicks e-POWER facelift as announced for the Philippine market, with prices converted to Malaysian Ringgit for local reference.

The Philippine launch pricing of PHP1.499 million converts to approximately RM110,000, positioning the Kicks e-POWER facelift in the upper mid-range subcompact SUV segment for ASEAN markets.

What Are the Key Exterior and Interior Changes in the Facelift?

The 2026 facelift introduces new LED daytime running lights and LED headlights at the front, a redesigned bumper with gloss black lower air intake, and a revised rear bumper with larger reflectors. Higher variants add a two-tone black roof, while the tailgate now carries "KICKS" lettering and new LED rear light clusters.

Inside, the cabin receives a new digital instrument cluster and a flat-bottom steering wheel. The top-spec variant features Moonstone Leather upholstery with blue and white accents. Nissan retains physical buttons for volume, track selection, display mode, and camera controls, alongside a wireless charger, automatic climate control, Around View Monitor, and Intelligent Rear View Mirror.

"Facelift ini bukan sekadar melibatkan perubahan rupa luaran, malah Nissan turut menambah beberapa ciri baharu pada bahagian kabin, teknologi ketersambungan dan sistem bantuan pemanduan."

— Qalif Latif, Careta (31-08-2026)

The facelift adds a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while retaining physical controls for essential functions like volume and camera display.

What Driver Assistance and Connectivity Features Are Included?

The facelift marks the first time the Kicks e-POWER in the Philippines is equipped with Nissan Connect Services, enabling remote engine start, vehicle monitoring, My Car Finder, and SOS emergency assistance via a smartphone app. The Nissan Intelligent Mobility suite includes Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking (front and rear), Lane Departure Warning and Prevention, Blind Spot Warning and Intervention, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

ProPILOT is also offered, combining adaptive cruise control with lane centering and a stop-and-go function for low-speed traffic. This system is particularly useful for Malaysian drivers facing daily congestion on the North-South Expressway or federal roads in the Klang Valley.

ProPILOT combines adaptive cruise control and lane centering with stop-and-go functionality, a feature designed for heavy traffic conditions common in Malaysian urban centres.

How Does the e-POWER Drivetrain Work?

The e-POWER system uses a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine that operates only as a generator to charge a 2.10 kWh lithium-ion battery, while a 136 PS electric motor producing 280 Nm of torque drives the wheels. This series-hybrid architecture means the petrol engine never directly powers the wheels, delivering an electric vehicle driving experience with the convenience of petrol refuelling.

For Malaysian users, this eliminates range anxiety and charging infrastructure dependency while providing instant electric torque. The system is compatible with standard Malaysian fuel grades (RON 95) and requires no special electrical installation, unlike plug-in hybrids or full EVs.

The e-POWER system delivers 136 PS and 280 Nm through an electric motor, with the 1.2-litre petrol engine functioning purely as a generator, making it suitable for Malaysian drivers without home charging access.

Who Is This For in Malaysia?

The Nissan Kicks e-POWER facelift targets Malaysian urban professionals and small families living in condominiums or apartments in the Klang Valley, Penang, and Johor Bahru who want EV-like driving dynamics without the need for a dedicated charging point. Its compact dimensions (4,300 mm length) make it suitable for tight parking spaces in Kuala Lumpur's high-density residential areas, while the 180 mm ground clearance handles Malaysian road conditions, including speed bumps and uneven surfaces.

The e-POWER system's petrol generator addresses the lack of public charging infrastructure outside major cities, making it a practical choice for users who occasionally travel to smaller towns. The 2.10 kWh battery requires no external charging, and the vehicle runs on standard RON 95 petrol available at all Malaysian fuel stations. However, Malaysian buyers should note that the facelift model has not yet been confirmed for local launch, with ETCM currently offering the pre-facelift version.

This vehicle suits Malaysian condominium dwellers in urban areas who want electric-vehicle performance but lack access to home charging, as the petrol generator eliminates the need for plug-in infrastructure.

Common Questions

When will the Nissan Kicks e-POWER facelift be launched in Malaysia?

As of the Philippine launch on 31 August 2026, Nissan has not announced a Malaysian release date. The facelift has been introduced in Thailand and the Philippines, but ETCM continues to offer the pre-facelift version in Malaysia. No official timeline has been provided.

What is the expected price of the facelift in Malaysia?

The Philippine price starts at PHP1.499 million, approximately RM110,000. Malaysian pricing will likely differ due to local excise duties, SST, and ETCM's pricing strategy. The current pre-facelift model is priced differently, and official Malaysian pricing awaits ETCM's announcement.

Does the e-POWER system require charging like a plug-in hybrid?

No. The e-POWER system is a series hybrid where the 1.2-litre petrol engine charges the 2.10 kWh battery, and the electric motor drives the wheels. Drivers only need to refuel with petrol, making it as convenient as a conventional car while providing electric motor performance.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on the original report by Qalif Latif published on Careta on 31 August 2026, titled "Nissan Kicks e-POWER Facelift Dilancarkan Di Filipina, Harga Bermula RM110 Ribu." The source article was accessed at https://careta.my/article/nissan-kicks-e-power-facelift-dilancarkan-di-filipina-harga-bermula-rm110-ribu.

Currency conversions from Philippine Peso (PHP) to Malaysian Ringgit (RM) are approximate and based on the rates implied in the original source article. All specifications, pricing, and feature details are drawn directly from the source material. No additional statistics or claims have been added beyond what the source provides. This article was last updated on 31 August 2026. Information specific to Malaysia, including ETCM distribution and local model availability, reflects the source's statements about the Malaysian market.