Nissan's 2026 Leaf Model Unveiled, Boasting a Maximum Range of 488 kilometers, Fresh Design, and NACS Charging System Integration
The much-anticipated third generation of the Nissan Leaf, a pioneer in the electric vehicle (EV) market, is set to hit showrooms this fall in Canada and the United States. While pricing details have yet to be announced, the new Leaf is expected to maintain an affordable price point, despite potential tariffs and changes to federal EV incentives.
The 2026 Leaf boasts a sleek, SUV-inspired crossover design and will be available in three trims: S+, SV+, and Platinum+. The Leaf's range varies depending on the battery option, with an estimated maximum of 488 kilometers (303 miles) for the base S+ trim.
The new Leaf's battery can be recharged from 10% to 80% in just 35 minutes at a compatible DC fast charger, thanks to its support for DC fast charging at up to 150 kW through a native North American Charging Standard (NACS) port.
To ensure optimal performance in cold weather, the 2026 Leaf features a new battery thermal management system. Additionally, a standard heat pump and battery heater ensure better cabin warmth and faster winter charging.
Inside, the Leaf offers a high-tech, spacious interior with dual displays and built-in Google apps. The Platinum+ trim also features a 10-speaker Bose Personal Plus sound system and a dimmable electrochromic panoramic roof, a first for Nissan.
Safety features are not compromised, with every 2026 Leaf coming standard with Nissan's ProPILOT Assist for semi-automated highway driving and Nissan Safety Shield® 360, including automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot intervention, and lane departure prevention.
Cargo space in the 2026 Leaf is generous, offering 20 cubic feet behind the second row and 55.5 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Leaf also features Nissan's Divide-N-Hide system, providing additional underfloor storage and flexibility.
The 2026 Leaf is part of Nissan's commitment to a more sustainable future, prioritizing efficiency, technology, and everyday usability. The new 75-kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery paired with a single front-mounted motor delivers up to 214 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque.
While pricing details for the Canadian market have not been released yet, the U.S. pricing is projected to start in the early $30,000s for the base model, with higher trims reaching up to around $40,000. The new Leaf is expected to arrive in dealerships in the U.S. later this year, with Canadian sales commencing in fall 2025 for the larger battery trims and early 2026 for the smaller battery base trim.
The potential impact of tariffs and changes to federal EV incentives remains unclear, but Nissan is aiming to keep the Leaf competitively priced. In Canada, provincial incentives could help offset costs, although the final impact on dealer pricing for the 2026 Leaf remains undisclosed.
With the 2026 Leaf, Nissan continues to push the boundaries of electric vehicle technology, offering a practical, efficient, and stylish option for environmentally conscious consumers.
The 2026 Leaf's advanced charging technology allows it to recharge from 10% to 80% in just 35 minutes at a compatible DC fast charger. This electric-vehicle's high-tech lifestyle features a spacious interior with dual displays and built-in Google apps. Nissan's commitment to a sustainable future includes offering the Leaf with various trims, ensuring affordability even with potential tariffs and changes to federal EV incentives.
