Electric Vehicle

Nissan Leaf Is Our Best New Model of 2026

By 01/20/2026 6:17pm
  • An affordable EV with more than 300 miles of range
  • Stylish looks, modern interior
  • Pleasant driving manners and a quiet cabin
  • Impressive cargo space
  • Price yours | See listings near you
Nissan Leaf Is Our Best New Model of 2026

It may seem funny to see a nameplate that has been around for 15 years in America as the best new model, but the transformation the Nissan Leaf has undergone for 2026 is worth celebrating. The Leaf is all-new for 2026, with the most range it has ever offered — 303 miles — a sleek, SUV-like design, an attractive interior, a comfortable ride, and the ability to charge at Tesla/NACS chargers. That you can get this vehicle for less than $35,000 makes this arguably the most accessible EV to date. That’s a very exciting combination, especially for those who had been priced out of the EV segment, and that’s why the Nissan Leaf is our Best New Model for 2026.

Practical, but Not Utilitarian

For 2026, Nissan redesigned the Leaf as a subcompact SUV, with swoopy, aerodynamic good looks, and it’s available in bright, attractive colors. That new body style not only makes it the best-looking Nissan Leaf ever, but it is a much more efficient layout. Even though the Leaf is now three inches shorter, cargo volume is nearly double behind the front seats. It increased from 30 cubic feet to 55.5. The new shape makes it easier to fit the Leaf into tight parking spaces, and you can carry more gear when you run errands. The seating position is higher, too, improving visibility.

Nissan Leaf Is Our Best New Model of 2026
Photo: Guy Spangenberg

Easy to Live With

Our test drivers enjoyed driving the Leaf. Power delivery is smooth, and the cabin is pleasantly quiet. The Leaf’s response is very quick starting from a stop, thanks to the EV system’s 214 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque. All Leaf models remain front-wheel drive.

There aren’t that many EVs at this price range, but of this select group, the Leaf is the most powerful and has the longest range.

Let’s talk about that range for a second. There are only a handful of sub-$35,000 EVs as of this writing: the Leaf, the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt, the Hyundai Kona Electric, and the Fiat 500e. The Leaf’s maximum range of 303 miles is better than the Chevrolet Bolt’s estimated 262 miles, the Hyundai Kona Electric’s 261 miles, and the Fiat 500e’s 149 miles. In addition, you can charge the Leaf anywhere there is a Tesla-style NACS charger, and that’s the most common type of plug. And the 2026 Leaf can charge from 10% full to 80% full in 35 minutes — which is pretty good for a vehicle at this price.

Nissan Leaf Is Our Best New Model of 2026
Photo: Guy Spangenberg

Stylish, Modern Interior

Inside the cabin, the 2026 Nissan Leaf has a wide display made up of a pair of screens mounted together in a single housing. That upscale touch adds panache that is unexpected at this price point. In addition, most trim levels use a 14.3-inch touchscreen that, again, is unexpected for this price range. The Leaf also comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Best of all, the cabin is put together with some panache. Steel blue or cobalt accents add bits of color to this modern interior. The TailorFit faux leather feels and looks like the real thing.

The new Leaf is full of pleasant surprises that add up to a terrific value. Not only is it a practical car, but it’s good-looking inside and out, has an impressive roster of standard features, and has a starting price well under $35,000.

New 2026 Nissan LEAF Prices

Retail Price
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
S PLUS
$31,485
TBD
SV PLUS
$35,725
TBD
PLATINUM PLUS
$40,485
TBD

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