After a 15-year wait, Nissan is finally releasing the 2026 Leaf, which has undergone a significant transformation. The new model is no longer a compact hatchback but a compact SUV, or more accurately, a crossover utility vehicle built on passenger-vehicle underpinnings.
The 2026 Leaf boasts an impressive range of up to 303 miles, thanks to its 75-kilowatt-hour battery pack powering a 160-kilowatt (214-horsepower) motor that produces 261 pound-feet (354 newton-meters) of torque. The motor drives the front wheels, but all-wheel-drive is not an option. The vehicle can charge at up to 150 kW via a North American Charging Standard port on the right-front fender, with fast-charging from 10 to 80 percent of battery capacity in 35 minutes under ideal conditions. The standard Plug & Charge protocol allows for seamless charging and billing.
Stylistically, the new Leaf resembles a smaller Nissan Ariya, with a sleeker design and a drag coefficient of 0.26, down from the previous Leaf’s 0.29. The vehicle features powered, flush-fitting front door handles and a high tail that provides a spacious cargo area of up to 55.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Depending on the trim level, the 2026 Leaf comes with 18- or 19-inch wheels, and a heat pump is standard for cabin heating.
Inside, most models feature dual 14.3-inch displays mounted side-by-side on a flat dash tray, with Google Maps and Google Assistant integrated into the dash. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay phone mirroring are available, along with options such as an electrically dimming panoramic glass moon roof and a battery heater.
Nissan plans to offer a basic Leaf S version with a smaller 52-kWh battery and a 130-kW (174-hp) motor at a later date. The original Leaf, launched in 2010, had a range of only 74 miles and faced criticism for its unusual design. Despite selling over 650,000 units globally, the Leaf struggled with battery durability issues, particularly in hot climates.
The new Leaf has addressed these concerns with a liquid-cooled battery pack. However, Nissan’s first-mover advantage in the EV market has been lost due to the company’s failure to innovate and expand its EV lineup. The 2026 Leaf will face stiff competition from numerous smaller, front-wheel-drive crossovers from global manufacturers.
