Nissan e-Power hybrid expansion in the U.S. for 2026 models

Nissan plans to expand its e-Power hybrid system in the U.S. market following its debut on the 2027 model year Rogue crossover. Company representatives indicated that the system could eventually appear on other models as well.

The compact Nissan Kicks crossover is considered a likely candidate. In Mexico, the Kicks Play e-Power version has been sold since 2022. This system employs a 1.2-liter gasoline engine that acts as a generator for a small 2.1 kWh lithium-ion battery. An electric motor delivers 134 horsepower and 281 Nm of torque, providing a driving experience similar to that of an electric vehicle.

In Europe, a similar third-generation system is already used on the Nissan Qashqai. There, the electric motor and battery work alongside a turbocharged three-cylinder 1.5-liter engine. Combined output reaches 202 horsepower and 329 Nm of torque—significantly more than the standard 2026 Kicks with its 141-horsepower gasoline engine.

For the American market, Nissan intends to tailor the e-Power system for long highway trips. The technology blends the benefits of electric and gasoline vehicles, offering smooth acceleration and improved fuel efficiency. This could be a key consideration for those eyeing new 2026 models and paying attention to hybrid technologies.