The new LEAF is no mere refresh. Nissan has taken what was once a pioneering compact hatchback and evolved it into a confident crossover, featuring smooth, aerodynamic lines that reduce drag while conveying a more muscular road presence. The body is clean yet dynamic, with integrated flush door handles and available 19-inch wheels that hint at its refined engineering. Around back, 3D holographic tail lamps enhance both aesthetics and visibility, while available features like a dimming panoramic roof with heat shielding underscore Nissan’s growing attention to premium detailing.
Inside, the redesigned cabin carries forward a philosophy of minimalism with an emphasis on space and serenity. The new layout makes room for both passengers and technology, including available dual 14.3-inch displays and ambient interior lighting with a palette of 64 color choices. Materials and ergonomics have been optimized to promote comfort for both short commutes and long hauls, and Nissan emphasizes that wellbeing was a design priority from day one.
Underpinning all this is a substantial technological leap. The LEAF now rides on a more sophisticated EV architecture featuring a new 3-in-1 powertrain unit that tightly integrates the motor, inverter, and reducer, helping boost both performance and efficiency. Nissan is offering a range of battery capacities, with a liquid-cooled lithium-ion pack providing up to 75 kWh of usable capacity. The top-range variant delivers an estimated 303 miles of range, according to Nissan’s own testing — a considerable leap from previous iterations.
The LEAF also adopts the North American Charging Standard (NACS), with Plug and Charge functionality that streamlines public charging. This reflects Nissan’s ongoing shift toward interoperability and user convenience. Faster charging times and enhanced regenerative braking combine to make daily EV driving more practical for a wider range of consumers, including those switching from gasoline-powered vehicles.
“Our goal with the new LEAF is to redefine what an affordable EV can offer,” said a Nissan executive during the launch. “This isn’t just a car for early adopters anymore — it’s an EV designed for everyone.”
In addition to high-efficiency driving, the LEAF comes with a new generation of Nissan-first driver-assistance features. These include a 3D Intelligent Around View® Monitor, Front Wide View camera, and an “Invisible Hood View” that uses imaging technology to provide a see-through visualization of the vehicle’s front area. For audiophiles, a Bose® Personal® Plus audio system is available, helping create an immersive in-cabin experience.
Connectivity is another strong point. With Google built-in, access to Google Maps, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, the LEAF is as integrated with your digital life as it is with the road. Nissan also touts a more robust voice assistant interface and over-the-air software update capabilities, indicating a commitment to keep the vehicle’s tech fresh beyond the showroom floor.
Production of the 2026 LEAF for North American markets will take place at Nissan’s Tochigi plant in Japan, where it will be assembled alongside the Ariya SUV. The vehicle is slated to arrive at U.S. dealerships this fall, with other global markets to follow.
With nearly 700,000 LEAFs sold globally since its 2010 debut, the model holds a special place in EV history. But with its bold new crossover form, elevated driving range, and a host of high-tech refinements, the 2026 edition is far more than a legacy update — it’s Nissan’s clearest bid yet to re-enter the EV mainstream with volume, style, and substance.