2026 Nissan Leaf SUV: The Electric Family Crossover We’ve Been Waiting For

Nissan has officially confirmed that the third-generation Leaf, launching in 2025–2026, will abandon the familiar hatchback shape and become a proper compact electric SUV. Built on the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi CMF-EV platform and manufactured in Sunderland, UK, the new Leaf SUV promises to combine Nissan’s 14 years of EV experience with European design flair, 66 kWh batteries, and a driving range that finally ends range anxiety for most families.

Radical New Look: From Golf-Sized Hatch to Ariya’s Little Brother

The production 2026 Leaf SUV is 95 % identical to the Chill-Out concept shown in 2022–2023. It sits between the Qashqai and the smaller Juke in size (approximately 4.55 m long) and borrows heavy styling cues from the larger Ariya: split LED headlights, illuminated V-Motion front “shield,” floating roof, and a full-width light bar at the rear with boomerang-shaped lamps.

The most striking detail is the aerodynamic optimization: active grille shutters, completely flat underbody panels, 3D tire deflectors, and a drag coefficient of just 0.28 — excellent for a high-riding SUV. Available two-tone paint (black roof standard on higher trims) and 19- or 20-inch aero wheels complete the premium appearance. Early spy photos and official teasers confirm colors like the eye-catching Akatsuki Copper and Nordic White Pearl.

Battery and Range: Finally Competitive in 2026

Two battery options will be offered from launch:

- 59 kWh usable (63 kWh gross) → up to 435 km (270 miles) WLTP

- 66 kWh usable (71 kWh gross) → up to 520 km (323 miles) WLTP

Both use NMC chemistry with improved thermal management and an 11 kW onboard AC charger (22 kW optional in Europe). DC fast charging peaks at 130 kW, delivering 20–80 % in about 28 minutes. Nissan claims the new prismatic cells are 30 % denser than the old Leaf’s packs and the battery is integrated as a stressed member of the chassis for better rigidity.

A heat-pump climate system is standard across the range, and the e-4ORCE dual-motor AWD version (expected late 2026) will add roughly 20–30 km of extra real-world range thanks to more efficient torque distribution.

Powertrain Choices: From Everyday Commuter to e-4ORCE Fun

Single-motor front-wheel-drive models:

- 160 kW (215 hp) and 330 Nm — 0–100 km/h in ~7.5 s

- 140 kW (188 hp) entry version on 59 kWh battery

Dual-motor e-4ORCE (2026–2027):

- Combined ~300 hp, torque vectoring, snow/sport modes

- Same 66 kWh battery, slightly lower range (~480 km WLTP)

Nissan promises the new Leaf SUV will feel “light and agile” despite weighing around 1,850–1,950 kg, thanks to 50:50 weight distribution and a low battery placement.

Interior: Huge Leap in Quality and Space

Inside, the transformation is even more dramatic than the exterior. The dashboard uses soft materials, ambient lighting with 64 colors, and twin 12.3-inch screens (digital cluster + infotainment) running NissanConnect EV with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and over-the-air updates.

A head-up display with augmented reality navigation, illuminated touch-sensitive climate controls, and a panoramic glass roof are available. Rear legroom and headroom are class-leading thanks to the 2,770 mm wheelbase, and the boot offers 540 liters with a flat floor (expandable to 1,600 liters). Clever details include a motorized frunk (45 liters) and V2L/V2G capability up to 6 kW.

Technology and Safety: ProPILOT 2.5 as Standard on Top Trims

Every 2026 Leaf SUV comes with the latest Nissan Safety Shield 360+:

- 360-degree cameras with invisible hood view

- Intelligent emergency braking with pedestrian/cyclist detection

- ProPILOT 1.5 adaptive cruise + lane centering (standard)

- ProPILOT 2.5 hands-off highway driving on AWD versions

An industry-first “Ground Light” projector under the doors displays the Nissan logo and a small puddle of light when approaching — both stylish and practical in dark parking lots.

Pricing and Market Launch

European deliveries start in summer 2025 (UK right-hand-drive slightly later), with U.S. and Canadian launches following in Q1 2026 as a 2026 model year vehicle.

Expected starting prices (before incentives):

- Leaf SUV 59 kWh Visia/Acenta ≈ €39,900 / £35,000 / $41,000 USD

- Leaf SUV 66 kWh N-Connecta/Tekna ≈ €45,000–€49,000

- e-4ORCE versions from ≈ €52,000

After government incentives in most markets, the effective price could drop below €30,000 in Europe and under $30,000 in the U.S., making it one of the most affordable family-sized electric SUVs.

Why the 2026 Leaf SUV Could Be Nissan’s Most Important Car This Decade

The old Leaf was the world’s best-selling EV until 2020, but the hatchback formula ran out of steam against newer crossover rivals. By transforming the Leaf into a stylish, spacious, and genuinely competitive electric SUV, Nissan is not just replacing an aging nameplate — it’s fighting for survival in the European and North American mass markets where SUVs now account for over 55 % of sales.

With sharp pricing, real-world 300+ mile range on the big battery, and the emotional weight of the Leaf badge, the 2026 model has every chance to repeat the revolution its grandfather started back in 2010.

The people’s electric car just grew up — and it looks ready to conquer families, not just early adopters.