What It Is
The next generation of Nissan’s Leaf electric car is being reimagined and redesigned for today’s tastes. Anticipated to debut next year as a 2026 model, this new Leaf promises to shed its dowdy image.
Why It Matters
Once viewed as an innovator, the Leaf has become a relic of the past, best known today for its budget-friendly price and lackluster range. This transition is unfortunate for a vehicle that led Nissan’s foray into electric mobility.
Indications suggest that change is on the horizon, particularly following Nissan’s introduction of several concept cars in the summer of 2022. The Chill Out concept will lay the foundation for the new 2026 Leaf. Drawings submitted for European patents depict a stylish four-door coupe-like crossover. The sleek roofline and compact tail evoke hints of Polestar and the Mustang Mach-E, while the distinctive front fascia is clearly influenced by Nissan’s Ariya electric crossover.
Nissan envisioned the Chill Out as a “mobile lounge” where occupants could relax while the car navigates autonomously. However, the new Leaf will likely feature a more traditional interior, including a workstation-style dashboard and, of course, a steering wheel. There is hope that some elements from the concept, such as a full-width LCD panel and expansive sunroof, may carry over, but the new Leaf will probably incorporate interiors similar to the Ariya. This is certainly a positive development.
All signs point toward the Leaf maintaining its reputation as an affordable electric vehicle (EV), though it will sport appealing SUV-like styling that can attract younger city dwellers. The Leaf is likely to be a pivotal model in Europe, where traditional automakers are grappling with an onslaught of budget-oriented Chinese EVs. Reports indicate that enhancements to the Sunderland plant in England could facilitate the production of up to 100,000 Leafs annually. In the U.S., however, sales have dramatically declined, with approximately 7,000 units sold in 2023, a 40 percent decrease from 2022. It appears that the majority of the new models will not be available in the U.S., possibly signaling the end of production for this market. Unfortunately, this could hinder the Leaf’s appeal as an affordable EV, especially considering that base prices are expected to surpass the $30,000 threshold, creating a gap between the Leaf and the Ariya.
Platform and Powertrain
The upcoming Leaf is anticipated to be built on the Ariya’s CMF-EV platform, allowing for the possibility of dual-motor all-wheel drive. Furthermore, the new Leaf is expected to feature a battery with 30 percent greater energy density, and Nissan estimates a roughly 25 percent increase in range compared to the existing Leaf SV’s 212-mile range. Although this enhancement is welcome, it may still fall short of reaching the coveted 300-mile threshold.
Estimated Price: $33,000
Expected On-Sale Date
Projected for release in 2025.
