2026 Brings Big Changes for An All-New Leaf

This is a good time to remember that the first modern all-electric vehicle sold to U.S. customers did not come from Tesla. Instead, it was the Nissan Leaf, which dates back to October 2010 as a 2011 model and arrived months before the first Tesla S luxury sedan rolled off the assembly plant. While that luxury sedan continues largely unchanged, Nissan is about to roll out the third-generation Leaf, and the changes are comprehensive. This post by Nissan of St. Andrews tells you what we know thus far. 

Being the first modern battery electric vehicle had its challenges. Its range was about 100 miles, its charge port differed from what later became the industry standard, and to be honest, it didn’t have the prettiest design. Nonetheless, hundreds of thousands of households around the world found the Leaf to be perfectly suitable for their commutes and daily driving routines. With over 700,000 units sold globally and more than 17 billion electric miles driven, Nissan has incorporated everything it learned into the 2026 third-generation Leaf. 

Like a Shrunken Murano 

The 2026 Leaf’s exterior will definitely not be mistaken for its prior models. However, from a distance, it has much of the same design language as the Ariya or Murano, as the Leaf clearly adopts the proportions of those crossover models, resulting in an impressive drag coefficient of just 0.26, down from 0.29 for the previous version. In addition to these proportions, a subtle integrated rear spoiler, a nearly flat underbody, and the brand’s first-ever motorized flush door handles help the Leaf glide through the air.  

The taillights are behind a transparent panel, similar to the Z, showcasing unique illuminated graphics consisting of two horizontal and three vertical rectangles that represent the brand’s name. Pronouncing “2” and “3” is “Ni” and “San” in Japanese. This design motif also appears on the wheels, interior, and charge doors. The illuminated rectangle theme is mirrored in the front DRLs, which curve down from the headlights to create a distinct smile on the Leaf’s face. The model’s roof design is well-suited for a two-toned exterior, which Nissan offers in several colors paired with a black roof. A panoramic glass roof is also available, featuring an infrared reflective coating that reduces the heat from the sun. 

The model appears larger than the current Leaf and is slightly so in some exterior dimensions, but it is actually a few inches shorter in length. This maintains the model’s compact size, which is rare for EVs, making it perfect for commuting and daily driving routines where EVs excel.  

Dash Design is Ariya-esque

The dash design is derived from the Ariya and Murano, featuring a prominent horizontal panel that sweeps beneath the dual 12.3-inch screens housing haptic controls, with an additional panel of physical controls underneath. All models come equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay® and wireless Android Auto™. SV+ and PLATINUM+ models upgrade to dual 14.3-inch screens and include the Google Built-in operating system, complete with onboard Google Maps, Google Assistant, and several downloadable apps from the Google Play Store. The PLATINUM+ models also include a Bose® Personal Plus® sound system with 10 speakers, featuring front headrest speakers that not only enhance the music experience but can also serve as the sole speakers for phone calls or navigation directions. 

Drivetrains for the Modern EV Age 

As much as the Leaf has changed visually, the most significant changes are in the drivetrain. The new LEAF will utilize a 75-kWh, liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pack paired with a 214-horsepower electric motor that delivers 261 lb-ft of torque. The official range has not yet been announced, but 303 miles is expected for the S+ grade and 259 miles for the Platinum+, which comes with larger wheels and a glass roof. The Leaf will feature a NACS (Tesla supercharger compatible) port for fast DC charging, capable of handling up to 150 kilowatts, allowing charging from a 10% to an 80% state in about 35 minutes. Also included is a standard heat pump for warming the cabin in winter, with an available battery heater to precondition the battery for optimal charging temperatures in cold weather. 

For those who mostly charge at home and don’t need the extra miles, a following, more affordable S model will be available with a 52-kWh battery and 174-hp motor. For all models, there is a second SAE J1772 port on the opposite side for AC charging. A new Plug & Charge function is a first for Nissan, allowing drivers to plug in the Leaf and walk away without needing to open an app or swipe a credit card. 

Coming this Fall to a Dick Smith Dealer Near You 

The 2026 Leaf will be added to the Dick Smith Nissan of St. Andrews inventory this fall, and prices will be announced closer to that time. If you’d like to be among the first to see and road test the new Leaf, contact one of our sales professionals to be informed when the first models arrive.