El Nissan Leaf faces a key stage in its history with the arrival of a third iteration that completely transforms it. More than fifteen years have passed since that first Leaf that paved the way for affordable electrics and, in all this time, the model has surpassed the 700.000 units sold globallyNow, the famous compact takes a radical turn. It abandons its traditional configuration and assumes a crossover SUV identity., aligning with current trends in the European market.
Behind this comprehensive renovation is the team of Nissan Global Design Center in Japan, which has opted for a much more avant-garde and aerodynamically efficient image. In this way, taking advantage of the latest trends and fashions in aesthetics, Nissan offers a more groundbreaking product. Not surprisingly, the original Leaf was already a groundbreaking product, but now, due to the SUV trend, hatchbacks are no longer attracting attention, and given their current financial situation, They need to sell it as if there were no tomorrow or they were churrosWill they succeed?
Exterior design of the new Nissan Leaf and key dimensions…
Thus, the new Leaf sports a fastback silhouette Measuring 4,35 meters long, 1,55 meters high, and 1,81 meters wide, this configuration positions it among the most versatile electric vehicles in the C segment. Key elements such as hidden handles, a panoramic roof with adjustable opacity and 3D front and rear lights underline its renewed character. The drag coefficient has been reduced to 0,25 Cx, a fact that directly impacts the range and efficiency. Customers will be able to choose between seven exterior colors and 18 or 19-inch wheels, with designs designed to optimize air flow.
Spacious, digital, and more connected interior…
The interior stands out for its Ample space for five real seats along with a 437-litre bootThe cabin follows Nissan's practical philosophy, but in this generation it takes a leap forward in quality, materials, and technological solutions. The brand has incorporated two connected 14,3-inch displays each one: one for the digital instrumentation and another for the multimedia system. All of this supported by the native Google integration (Maps, Assistant, Play Store, etc.), allowing fluid voice control and access to apps, smart routes and charging planning.
Furthermore, through the NissanConnect Services app, the user can control the climate control, manage the charging, or check the car's status from their mobile phone. Other notable interior details include the electrically dimming glass roof, the mode selectors on the center console, and the option to equip a BOSE premium audio system with integrated headrest speakers and numerous practical spaces. All designed to make everyday life easier for the family or on long journeys.
Improved platform and electrical solutions…
The technical basis of the new Leaf is the CMF-EV modular platform, the same one used by models such as the Nissan Ariya or their cousins Renault Megane E-Tech o Scenic E Tech. This translates into greater structural rigidity (+66%) compared to the previous iteration and the presence of rear multi-link suspension to improve balance while driving. The setting prioritizes the comfort, space and efficiency, in addition to providing a completely flat floor and easy access to the rear seats and trunk.
Bidirectional functionality and new technologies…
The new Nissan Leaf 25 goes beyond a simple electric car. It integrates solutions such as V2L (Vehicle-to-Load), a technology that allows the battery to be used to power external devices with a maximum power of 3,6 kW. This allows you to charge tools, small appliances, or use it while camping. In future phases, it will also be compatible with the V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid), allowing energy to be returned to the electrical grid, which can result in savings on the electricity bill.
Among the technological assistants, the Leaf is equipped ProPILOT Assist (level 2 semi-autonomous driving), e-Pedal Step with adjustable regenerative braking and a 360º camera system with "invisible hood" vision. The list of aids includes intelligent cruise control, lane keeping, and driver monitoring, as well as over-the-air software updates.
Engines, range, and fast charging…
The 2026 Nissan Leaf will be available with two battery options: a 52kWh coupled to a front electric motor 130 kW (177 hp) and 345 Nm, capable of homologating up to 436 kilometers WLTP and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8,6 seconds. And a 75 kWh top-end battery associated with a propellant 160 kW (218 hp) and 355 Nm, which increases autonomy up to 604 kilometers (WLTP) and reduces the 0-100 km/h time to 7,6 seconds. The top speed of both versions is limited to 160 km/h, while combined consumption ranges between 14 and 14,2 kWh/100 km.
As for recharging, supports powers up to 150 kW in direct current (DC), allowing to recover from 20% to 80% of the battery in less than 30 minutes and add up to 417 km in that time in the most capable Leaf. On domestic alternating current (AC), it supports up to 11 kW. The system incorporates thermal management and battery preconditioning, synchronized with Google Maps, to optimize travel times.
Availability, finishes and manufacturing…
For the Spanish market, the range will offer four finishes (Engage, Engage+, Advance and Evolve), and Nissan expects to open orders in fall 2025, with the First deliveries planned for spring 2026The model will be assembled at the Sunderland plant (United Kingdom) within the EV36Zero industrial ecosystem. Although the Japanese manufacturer has not yet confirmed prices, it is estimated that prices will start around 35.000 Euros in Spain.
The 2026 Nissan Leaf seeks to consolidate itself as a benchmark in the family electric segment by combining SUV design, autonomy for long trips, cutting-edge technology and a functional approachEuropean production and a commitment to connected technology position it as one of the key launches of the year in the world of electric cars.
Source - Nissan
Images | nissan
