2026 Nissan Leaf Returns As Sleek SUV With 600km Range

Nissan has revealed the third-generation Leaf, and this time it’s more than just an update, it’s a complete redesign. Due in Australia in 2026, the new Leaf moves away from its hatchback roots and adopts a sleek crossover body. Alongside a new shape, it brings much longer driving range, modern software, and a redesigned cabin.

The most significant upgrade is the battery. The top-spec model now offers a 75kWh pack, boosting WLTP range to 604km, a major increase from the previous model’s 385km. A more affordable version with a 52kWh battery is also coming, offering up to 436km. Both benefit from new battery chemistry and improved thermal management (a weakness of the previous Leaf).

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Charging has also improved. The outdated CHAdeMO port is gone. In its place, Nissan now uses the CCS system, compatible with most Australian DC fast chargers. The 75kWh Leaf can gain up to 417km of range in just 30 minutes using a 150kW charger. Google Maps is built into the car’s system to help plan trips and select optimal charging stops. Battery pre-conditioning kicks in automatically before fast charging to speed things up further.

The new Leaf is not just about battery improvements. It also introduces a more aerodynamic shape with a drag coefficient of just 0.25. Despite being 10mm taller than before, it’s slightly shorter overall. Clever design details like pop-out front door handles, hidden rear door handles, and an active air intake help reduce drag. An electrochromatic glass roof, dimmable in segments, helps lower the roofline without sacrificing rear headroom.

▶️MORE: 2026 Nissan Leaf Full Reveal Before Aussie Release

Inside, the Leaf sees major upgrades. The dashboard now resembles Nissan’s Ariya crossover, offering a cleaner and more premium look. A large 14.3-inch digital instrument cluster sits beside a matching infotainment screen running Google Automotive. Physical controls are still present, including a volume knob and button-based gear selector.

Other interior highlights include:

• Google Play Store access with support for over 70 apps
• Wireless connectivity with phone-as-controller gaming support
• Optional Bose audio system with a driver headrest speaker
• Climate system integrated with battery thermal management
• Heat pump standard on 75kWh version (optional on 52kWh)

Cabin space is improved thanks to smarter packaging. Legroom, shoulder room, and headroom all increase, even though the car is slightly shorter than before. The boot now offers 427 litres of space, along with an adjustable floor that can store charging cables or the parcel shelf. The back seats include two ISOFIX points, though the front seat misses out.

▶️MORE: Nissan Leaf Charging Guide

Here’s how the space compares:

Performance isn’t a major focus, but both versions still offer decent output. The top-spec Leaf produces 160kW and gets from 0 to 100km/h in 7.4 seconds, slightly slower than the outgoing model, but still quick for a family EV. Both versions use the same motor, with performance tuned via software.

Design-wise, the new Leaf features smooth curves and wide surfaces, guided by Nissan’s European design team. Unique Japanese numerals are integrated into interior and exterior detailing, with the full-width front light bar and 3D-effect rear lights giving it a modern look.

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Australian pricing hasn’t been confirmed. However, Nissan has hinted at competitive pricing to appeal to the Leaf’s existing owner base, which numbers over 700,000 globally. Sales are expected to begin locally in the second half of 2026.