Two weeks before its official launch, Nissan has provided a sneak peek into the 2026 Nissan Leaf EV, set to hit the Australian market in 2026. The third-generation Leaf showcases an SUV-inspired design, featuring a rounder shape, increased ride height, and a more aerodynamic front end.
The design director of the Leaf program, Nobutaka Tase, emphasized that this new model is the most aerodynamically efficient car in Nissan’s history, attributing this to its fastback-style body, active grille shutters, flat underbody, flush-fitting door handles, and optimized wheel design. The addition of an e-dimming panoramic glass roof further enhances the vehicle’s aerodynamics.
In the US and Japan, the most efficient Leaf variants boast a coefficient of drag of 0.26, while European models achieve an even lower 0.25, thanks to unique wing mirror and alloy wheel designs. Richard Candler, the vice president overseeing global product strategy at Nissan, highlighted the Leaf’s significance as an iconic model within the brand’s lineup.
To position the new Leaf as a compelling alternative to traditional combustion engine vehicles, Nissan aims for a range of 300 to 500km between charges. The company plans to leverage seamless plug and charge capability, enabling the vehicle to add over 250km of charge in just 14 minutes, aligning with the average refueling stop.
Addressing concerns from the current Leaf model, which faces challenges with CHAdeMO chargers and battery cooling, the 2026 Nissan Leaf adopts the CMF-EV architecture, also utilized in the Ariya electric crossover. This platform, known as AmpR Medium, is shared with Renault’s Megane E-Tech and Scenic E-Tech, promising active cooling systems and compatibility with popular charging ports like CCS.
Comparing the new Leaf to its predecessor, the Ariya offers battery packs ranging from 65kWh to 90kWh, along with various drivetrain options. With a WLTP driving range between 360km and 500km, the Ariya outperforms the second-generation Leaf, which features a 39kWh battery and a WLTP range of 270km in its base trim.
Since its debut in 2010, the Nissan Leaf has sold approximately 700,000 units globally, covering an estimated 28 billion kilometers. Despite initial success as the world’s best-selling EV, the Leaf has faced competition from models like the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y. The 2026 Leaf is slated for release in Australia, likely sourced from Nissan’s UK factory in Sunderland.
As the automotive industry continues to shift towards electric mobility, Nissan’s unveiling of the 2026 Leaf EV signifies the brand’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. With enhanced aerodynamics, extended driving range, and advanced technology, the new Leaf aims to capture the evolving market demand for eco-friendly transportation options.
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