Nissan has released the first images of the new Leaf, part of a massive product offensive that will see the company launch a slew of models over the next two years. Previously a hatchback, the once-pioneering electric vehicle is now an SUV that’s slightly smaller than the Ariya, with styling seemingly derived from the Chill-Out concept from 2021.
Just like the show car, the new Leaf gets an upturned trapezoidal front mask, with a full-width daytime running light signature leading into a cascade of rectangles; a downturned air intake mirrors the said mask underneath. The chiselled bonnet leads into the shoulder crease that flicks up towards the rear, taking the window line with it.
Like the Ariya, the Leaf takes on a coupé-like roofline – an illusion enhanced by the hidden rear door handles. As is becoming the norm, the front handles are flush pop-out units, leaving the front and rear fender creases and the right front fender charge port door as the only adornments. For the first time, the Leaf can be had with wheels up to 19 inches in diameter – seen here with an intricate cross design – as well as a panoramic glass roof.
No details have been revealed just yet (nor the rear end), with Nissan promising to reveal more in the middle of the year. However, it has confirmed the Leaf will ride on the same electric Common Module Family (CMF-EV) platform as the Ariya, and that the more streamlined design, more efficient battery management and the company’s new three-in-one EV powertrain are expected to net a significant increase in range.
The Leaf will be launched in North America first during the coming financial year, with Japan and Europe to follow. The car will then arrive in Oceania – and presumably the rest of Asia – in FY2026. Nissan will hope to, ahem, turn a new Leaf, having been battered by a financial crisis, a failed merger with Honda and the removal of an embattled CEO.
Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.
