2026 Nissan LEAF Named a 2026 Car and Driver Editors’ Choice Winner


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Value-packed, all-new LEAF scores another industry award

The all-new 2026 Nissan LEAF was named a Car and Driver Editors’ Choice winner. The annual list names the best cars, trucks, SUVs and vans from the 2026 model year, ranked across 47 unique vehicle segments.

“Redesigned for 2026, the new LEAF provides the range, performance, practicality and the value that will satisfy the demands of EV shoppers,” said Tony Quiroga, editor-in-chief, Car and Driver.

Editors’ Choice winners are selected based on Car and Driver’s instrumented testing results; editors’ assessments of how vehicles deliver in terms of mission fulfillment, value and driving enjoyment; and the rating each vehicle earns compared to segment competitors. To be named an Editors’ Choice, a vehicle must earn a rating of at least 9 out of 10 stars from Car and Driver’s reviewers.

The all-new Nissan LEAF has received a growing list of industry awards, including being named a 2026 Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Award winner; InsideEVs Breakthrough EV of the Year; Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems; World’s Best Compact Car by Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year Jury; and Car of the Year, Best EV and Best Budget Vehicle in the inaugural Buzz Awards.

The all-new electric 2026 Nissan LEAF builds on the model’s DNA of reliable, affordable and attractive EV ownership, delivering strong value for the mass market. It has an EPA-estimated driving range of up to 303 miles per charge1, and a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the S+ grade of $29,9902.

Now in its third generation, LEAF’s design has been completely reimagined with clean, dynamic body lines, combining a sleek profile with an SUV-like stance. A built-in NACS port with Plug & Charge3 functionality provides seamless access to more than 27,500 Tesla Superchargers4 for convenient public charging, making LEAF ideal for commuting and road trips alike.

LEAF also offers an extensive list of advanced technologies, including an available segment-first dimming panoramic roof5, standard class-exclusive Intelligent Around View® Monitor6, 64-color ambient interior lighting, flush door handles, 3D holographic tail lamps and available dual 14.3-inch displays with Google built-in7, including Google Maps.


  1. EPA-estimated range up to 303 miles for combined city/highway driving. 2026 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates 131 City, 111 Highway. Based on EPA formula of 33.7 kW/hour equal to one gallon of gasoline energy, EPA rated LEAF 75kWh S+ equivalent to 131 MPGe measured as gasoline fuel efficiency in city driving, and 111 MPGe in highway driving. Actual mileage will vary with trim levels, options, and driving conditions. See Customer Disclosure Form for details.  Use for comparison only.
  2. All prices are Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). MSRP excludes destination and handling charges, tax, title, license and options. Dealer sets actual price.
  3. Subscription and activation required. See Nissan Store in the MyNISSAN app for Terms and Conditions.
  4. Public charging networks are provided by independent companies and are subject to their own respective policies, terms, and/or conditions, and are not within Nissan’s control. Should such independent companies terminate or restrict service or features, service or features may be suspended or terminated without notice or with no liability to Nissan or its partners or agents.  Nissan is not responsible for associated costs (including additional equipment or equipment replacements/upgrades, if available) or other third party changes that may be required for connectivity with a charger station. Availability of charging stations not guaranteed. Please see your Owner Manual for important operating and safety instructions.
  5. Available feature. AutoPacific Segmentation. 2026 Nissan LEAF vs. latest in-market competitors in the XSUV – Compact Class (EVs only).
  6. AutoPacific Segmentation. 2026 Nissan LEAF vs. latest in-market competitors in the XSUV – Compact Class (EVs only). Based on manufacturers’ websites. Intelligent Around View Monitor cannot eliminate blind spots and may not detect every object. Driver should always turn and check surroundings before driving. I-AVM includes Moving Object Detection. See Owner’s Manual for safety information.
  7. Feature availability varies by vehicle model year, model, trim level, packaging and options. Consumer activation of NissanConnect Services SELECT package (“Package”) required. Package trial period included with eligible new vehicle purchase or lease. Trial period may be subject to change or termination at any time and without notice. After trial period ends, monthly subscription fee required. Driving is serious business and requires your full attention. Only use features when safe and legal to do so. Never program while driving. GPS mapping may not be detailed in all areas or reflect current road status. Connectivity service required. App subscriptions may be required. Data rates may apply. Subject to third party service availability. Should such service providers terminate or restrict service or features, service or features may be suspended or terminated without notice or with no liability to NISSAN or its partners or agents. Google, Google Play and Google Maps are trademarks of Google LLC. For more information, see www.nissanusa.com/connect/legal.

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