Nissan is preparing to roll out its refurbished 2026 Leaf, reincarnated as a crossover SUV providing an impressive range of up to 303 miles, along with dual charging options and integrated Google software. The revamped Leaf is poised to grace US dealerships this autumn, though its final price tag remains under wraps.
The initial version of the Leaf offered a certain rustic charm that could be defined as appealing in its unique way. However, its successor didn’t manage to impress much, presenting indifferent design facets and an antiquated CHAdeMO charging port that hinted at obsolescence.
The 2026 Leaf could be described as a comprehensive upgrade from its predecessors, boasting a far superior design and performance. The once modest hatchback has evolved into a sleek, modern crossover, highlighted by enhanced aerodynamics with a 0.26 drag coefficient, reduced from 0.29.
The estimated range of the new Leaf has noticed a substantial surge, lying between 259 to 303 miles, a remarkable increment from the previous max limit of 212 miles. It further distinguishes itself with dual charging ports – a standard CCS-compatible port along with an additional NACS port for access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger stations.
Powering this updated Leaf is a 75kWh, liquid-cooled, lithium-ion battery pack that drives a 214-horsepower electric motor. It possesses the ability to fast charge up to 150kWh, and its dual ports contribute to a level of versatility that negates the need for an adapter.
As for charging times, Nissan predicts that fast charging from 10% to 80% capacity will take approximately 35 minutes. The Leaf S will serve as the baseline variant, with the S Plus and SV Plus versions providing additional features such as an expansive battery and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Nissan is introducing a novel Platinum Plus trim that is adorned with 19-inch wheels and a 10-speaker sound system from Bose, featuring speakers that are built into the front headrests. The entry-level S trim, which is slated to be available in Spring 2026, is equipped with a smaller 52kWh battery and a motor with 174-hp.
The base model is expected to provide a pretty respectable estimated range of about 255 miles. Moreover, an updated battery thermal management system and a heat pump position this Leaf as the perfect EV for winter charging.
In terms of design, the 2026 Leaf presents a simpler, more streamlined aesthetic. Some highlights include retractable door handles (a first for Nissan), obscured rear handles in the C-pillar, a grill logo that illuminates, a stacked rectangular lighting system, and the option for a full-width light bar.
The cousin to Ariya EV, the 2026 Leaf, also sits atop Nissan’s modular CMF-EV platform. This design framework introduces Nissan’s “3-in-1” powertrain setup, elegantly merging the motor, inverter, and reducer into one cohesive unit.
All versions of the new Leaf include ProPILOT Assist for steering assistance, lane centering, and adaptive cruise control. There’s also the inclusion of a safety technology unique to Nissan: Secondary Collision Mitigation Braking. This system initiates the brakes post airbag deployment to help mitigate crash severity or avoid a possible collision with another vehicle.
Nissan has promised that more details about the new Leaf, including pricing, will be provided before the year’s end. Among the new features, the Leaf’s battery pack is protected by a resin cover. This cover helps shield the battery from the cold, snow, and icy slush during winter driving.
The Leaf also has a system that recycles ‘wasted heat’ from the drive motor and onboard charger to help keep the battery at the optimal temperature. This feature is complemented by a standard onboard heat pump on all trims, efficiently warming the cabin in colder months.
Additionally, there’s a battery heater to ensure the pack maintains the optimal temperature for fast charging under cold weather conditions. This once again underlines Nissan’s commitment to creating a holistic user experience, ensuring efficient performance across all conditions.
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