2026 Nissan Leaf Review
The Nissan Leaf was one of the first mass-market electric cars when it launched back in 2010. For many buyers, it was their very first experience of living with an EV. Now, for 2026, Nissan has completely reinvented the Leaf with an all-new third-generation model, and this time it feels far more serious and premium.
This new Leaf is built on a dedicated EV platform shared with the Nissan Ariya. It looks more like a bold crossover-style sedan, offers up to 303 miles of range on select trims, and packs more technology than any previous Leaf.
Below is a clean, practical breakdown of everything you need to know.
Platform and Powertrain Overview
Unlike some competitors, the 2026 Leaf does not offer a front trunk. Under the hood, you only find EV components and the electric motor. Nissan has kept the drivetrain simple but effective.
Key Powertrain Details:
Single electric motor mounted at the front
Front-wheel drive only
Battery capacity: 75 kWh
Power output: 214 horsepower
Torque: 262 lb-ft
Transmission: Single-speed reduction gear
0 to 60 mph:
Previous test: around 7.5 seconds
Latest real-world test: 6.5 to 6.6 seconds
Top speed: Around 109 mph
Vehicle weight: Around 4,300 lbs
Towing: Not rated for towing
The performance feels quick and responsive for daily driving, with strong instant acceleration typical of EVs.
Electric Range by Variant
Nissan has significantly improved the driving range compared to older Leafs.
Official Range Ratings:
| Variant | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| S+ | Up to 303 miles |
| SV+ | Around 288 miles |
| Platinum Plus | Around 259 miles |
Real-world tested range:
Around 280 miles in normal driving conditions
Better than Hyundai Kona Electric and comparable or better than upcoming Chevrolet Bolt
Charging: Tesla NACS and Dual Charge Ports
One of the biggest upgrades is charging flexibility.
DC Fast Charging (Tesla / NACS Port)
Located on the front passenger side
Standard Tesla NACS port
Max charging speed: 150 kW
10% to 80% charging time: Around 35 minutes
Access to Tesla Supercharger network
AC Home Charging (J1772 Port)
Located on the driver side
Uses J1772 connector
Onboard charger: 7.2 kW
Full charge time: Around 10 hours
Having two charge ports makes the Leaf very practical for both home and public charging.
Exterior Design Highlights
The 2026 Leaf looks much more premium than before. It sits somewhere between a tall sedan and a coupe-style hatchback.
Standout Exterior Features:
New signature color: Seabreeze Metallic
Full LED headlights standard
LED light bar across the front
Illuminated Nissan logo
Projector-style LED low and high beams
Platinum trim gets:
360-degree camera
Special DRL signature
Digital-style closed grille
Functional lower air vents
Dimensions and Wheels
Surprisingly, the new Leaf is slightly smaller than the previous generation.
Dimensions:
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 173.2 inches |
| Wheelbase | 105.9 inches |
| Width | ~1 inch wider than old model |
| Height | ~1 inch taller than old model |
| Ground clearance | Around 5.5 inches |
Wheel Options:
Base S: Wheel covers
SV: Alloy wheels
Platinum Plus: 19-inch alloy wheels
Tire size: 235/45 R19 Bridgestone Alenza
Retractable front door handles and hidden rear handles improve aerodynamics and give a coupe-like look.
Interior Technology and Comfort
Inside, the Leaf feels modern and well-equipped, especially in higher trims.
Screen sizes by trim:
| Trim | Display Size |
|---|---|
| S | Dual 12.3-inch screens |
| SV / Platinum Plus | Dual 14.3-inch screens |
Displays and Infotainment Features:
Google built-in
Wireless Apple CarPlay
Wireless Android Auto
Head-up display on Platinum
Ambient lighting
Seats and Materials
Front seats:
Driver: 10-way power with lumbar
Passenger: Manual adjustment
Heated seats on higher trims
No ventilated seats
Steering wheel:
Heated
Flat-bottom design
Paddle controls for regen braking
360 Camera and Driver Technology
The Platinum Plus trim includes an advanced 360 surround-view camera system.
Camera views include:
Standard surround view
Wide front angle
Invisible hood view
Full 3D spin model of the vehicle
Rear Seat Space
Rear seat space is usable but not class-leading.
Rear seat measurements and features:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Legroom | 31.8 inches |
| Floor | Flat floor |
| Rear vents | Yes |
| USB ports | Two USB-C |
| Heated rear seats | Platinum Plus only |
| Armrest with cupholders | Yes |
Comparable to Toyota Prius but slightly tighter than Hyundai Kona Electric.
Boot Space and Practicality
Cargo space is one of the Leaf’s strong points.
| Cargo Configuration | Space |
|---|---|
| Seats up | Around 20 cubic feet |
| Seats folded | Around 56 cubic feet |
Additional features:
Underfloor storage
Nissan Divide-N-Hide system
Power tailgate on Platinum Plus trim
Real Driving Experience
The new Leaf feels much more refined than the old model.
Driving highlights:
Smooth, quiet ride
Strong instant acceleration
Little body roll for its size
Planted chassis feel
Regen braking:
E-Step system
Strong regen but not full one-pedal stop
Brake pedal moves with regen, which takes time to adjust to
Competitors Compared
The 2026 Leaf fights directly with several popular EVs.
| Model | Approximate Range |
|---|---|
| Nissan Leaf | Up to 303 miles |
| Hyundai Kona Electric | Lower than Leaf |
| Chevrolet Bolt (upcoming) | Around 255 miles |
| Tesla Model 3 Standard Range | Around 320 miles |
| Toyota Prius PHEV | Lower electric-only range |
In real-world use, the Leaf delivered better range than Kona Electric and performed close to Tesla Model 3 in daily usability.
Pricing Breakdown
US Pricing (approximate):
| Variant | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Leaf S+ | Around $29,990 |
| Leaf SV+ | Around $34,200 |
| Leaf Platinum Plus | Around $38,990 |
Test vehicle price with options:
Battery heater: +$300
Special paint: +$800
Floor mats
Destination charge: ~$1,400
Final as-tested price: Around $41,930
Who Should Consider the 2026 Nissan Leaf
This car makes sense if you want:
A practical daily electric car
Strong real-world range
Easy Tesla fast charging
Lots of tech without paying luxury-car prices
It may not suit you if you need:
All-wheel drive
Maximum rear seat space
Towing capability
Final Verdict
The 2026 Nissan Leaf finally feels like a mature EV.
It offers:
Real-world range close to 280 miles
Strong 0 to 60 performance in the 6.5-second range
Practical boot space
Modern dual-screen infotainment
Tesla-compatible fast charging
For its price, it is one of the most balanced and sensible electric cars in its class. If you want an affordable, easy-to-live-with EV that feels modern and premium, the new Leaf is absolutely worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the driving range of the 2026 Nissan Leaf?
The standard S+ trim is rated to deliver up to 303 miles of range. The Platinum Plus version driven here is rated at 259 miles, but in real world conditions it delivered close to 280 miles on a full charge.
What battery and motor setup does the new Leaf use?
The 2026 Leaf uses a 75 kWh battery pack paired with a single front mounted electric motor. It produces around 214 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque with front wheel drive as standard.
How fast is the 2026 Nissan Leaf from 0 to 60 mph?
Nissan does not publish an official 0 to 60 figure, but real world testing showed runs between 6.5 and 6.7 seconds, which is surprisingly quick for an affordable electric car.
Does the new Nissan Leaf support Tesla Superchargers?
Yes. The new Leaf comes with an NACS port for DC fast charging, giving access to Tesla Supercharger stations. It supports DC fast charging speeds up to 150 kW.
How long does it take to charge the 2026 Leaf?
On a DC fast charger, the battery can go from 10 to 80 percent in about 35 minutes. For home charging, the 7.2 kW onboard charger takes roughly 10 hours for a full charge.
Does the 2026 Leaf have a front trunk?
No, the Leaf does not offer a front trunk. It shares its EV platform with the Nissan Ariya, and the space under the hood is used for powertrain components.
How much cargo space does the new Leaf offer?
With the rear seats up, it offers about 20 cubic feet of storage. Folding the rear seats expands the space to around 56 cubic feet, including underfloor storage.
What screens and infotainment features does it get?
Upper trims come with dual 14.3 inch displays with Google built in, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Lower trims use dual 12.3 inch screens with the same core functions.
Does the Leaf offer a panoramic glass roof?
Yes, the Platinum Plus trim gets an electrochromatic dimmable panoramic glass roof. It changes transparency at the press of a button but does not physically open.
Is the rear seat comfortable for adults?
Rear legroom is about 31.8 inches. It is usable for average sized adults on short to medium trips, but competitors like the Kona Electric offer slightly more rear space.
Does the new Leaf offer all wheel drive?
Currently it is front wheel drive only. There is no all wheel drive version at launch, but it is expected Nissan could introduce it in the future.
What are the starting prices of the 2026 Nissan Leaf?
The base S+ trim starts around 29,990 dollars. The SV trim is priced higher, and the fully loaded Platinum Plus version starts around 38,990 dollars before options.
Is the new Leaf good for daily driving?
Yes, it is very easy to live with. It offers smooth acceleration, quiet cabin, good visibility, a usable back seat, practical cargo space, and strong real world range for everyday use.
