Nissan unveils 2026 Leaf EV, offers up to 488 km of range
All-new Nissan Leaf looks promising
Nissan has been teasing the all-new, third-generation Leaf for quite a while, but now they are ready share more about their newest all-electric hatchback-turned-crossover.
As expected, the Nissan Leaf EV is given a significant makeover for 2026, as it’s bigger, more upright, and more aerodynamic efficient than its predecessor. The fastback-like silhouette, the flush door handles, the aero wheels, and a flat underbody are designed to cut through air as smooth as possible. Nissan says they have achieved a drag coefficient of 0.25 for the EU-market spec units, while the US and Japan models have 0.26.
The front end is something we’ve seen before with the V-motion fascia, but what surprised us was the treatment on the rear end. If anything, we’re seeing designs inspired by the current Nissan Z on the taillights.
Inside is a major step up for the Nissan Leaf, as it now features a monolith-style display that houses either a 12.3 or a 14.3-inch screens with Google built-in. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard on all variants of the Leaf, while a Bose Personal Plus premium audio system with integrated headrest speakers is available on the top variants for the best audio experience.
Furthermore, the Nissan Leaf debuts the brand’s first dimming panoramic roof, which uses Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) technology to deliver heat shielding while occupants enjoy natural light and comfort inside.
As for its electric powertrain, the all-new Leaf will be offered with two liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery options. The first one has a 52 kWh battery powering a 177 PS, 345 Nm electric motor, while the other has a larger 75 kWh battery that powers a single motor with 218 PS and 355 Nm of torque.
Nissan says the all-new, 3-in-1 EV powertrain with an integrated motor, inverter and reducer is 10% smaller than its predecessor and features Nissan’s unique motor control, which enhances refinement. Likewise, the new motor is paired with a new, high-rigidity motor-mount bracket, which reduces motor vibration by 75-percent compared to the outgoing model.
In terms of range, the 75 kWh battery variants are estimated to drive up to 488 km on a single charge – a little short on the predictions made by Nissan’s Francois Bailly earlier in the year. Japan versions will continue to have ChaDeMo chargers, but other markets will have CCS ports.
When connected to a 150 kW DC fast charger, the Leaf can recharge from 10 to 80% SoC in as little as 35 minutes.
The V2L, V2H and V2G functions are retained for the all-new Leaf, along with 120V outlets that can discharge up to 1500W to power small electronic devices whenever going on outdoor trips.
Lastly, the Leaf features a comprehensive suite of advanced and innovative driver assist technologies. These include an available 3D Intelligent Around View Monitor, Invisible Hood View and Front Wide View functionality.
The all-new Nissan Leaf will be assembled in two plants – Tochigi in Japan, and Sunderland in England. The US market will get first dibs of the Leaf, but other markets should follow by 2026.
