Nissan new Leaf driving REVIEW 2026 | ShortsCars

The 2026 Nissan Leaf is the first electric vehicle to enter its third generation — that means Nissan has had more time than any other automaker to get it right. But since the original Leaf went on sale in 2011, the competitive landscape has changed drastically, and the new Leaf has to compete against some seriously impressive vehicles. So, how does it stack up? Edmunds’ Ryan Greger gives you an overview of the new Leaf, including range, tech, interior, and more in this First Look video.

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INFO
The 2026 Nissan Leaf is all-new and more refined. Plus it’s more affordable than most EVs on sale today. Starting at $31,500 (yeah, including shipping), it delivers real-world range, upgraded tech, and the everyday comfort Nissan is known for — without drifting into luxury-car pricing.

After living with the Leaf for a full week, I dig into real-world range, charging speeds, interior usability, ride quality, and how it stacks up as a practical electric vehicle. The third-generation Leaf is so improved, Nissan could’ve given it a new name. Remember, Leaf was a finalist for the NACTOY 2026 North American Utility of the Year.

Here’s what I cover in this video:
Real-world driving range vs EPA estimates
Charging at home and DC fast charging (NACS + J1772)
Interior tech, Google Assistant and phone projection
Ride quality, performance, and everyday drivability
Cargo space, back seat comfort, and usability
How the Leaf compares to affordable EVs like the Chevy Bolt


Length 4,35 m 171“ (- 14 cm / -5“)
18“ steel wheel standard, optional 18“ aluminum (both 215 mm) or 19“ aluminum (235 mm)
More aerodynamic: cd value 0.25
Multi-link rear suspension
Batteries
52 kWh 177 hp 8,3 s 0-100 km/h
Charging 105 kW DC, 11 kW AC
75 kWh 217 hp 7,6 s 0-100 km/h
Official range 600 km, realistic 500 km / 300 miles ? Nissan promises over 300 km / 190 miles at 130 km/h 80 mph
Charging 150 kW DC, 11 kW AC
20-80 % in in 30 Min each
400 km in 30 Min
Pre-conditioning via google maps gps destination
Optional heat pump or battery heater?
V2L and V2G capable
e-pedal and recuperation mode adjustment by shifting paddles
160 kmh 100 mph vmax
2x 12,3“ or optional 14,3“ screens
Base fabric seats, optional perforated leatherette „TailorFit“ in black/blue or white/blue
Steering wheel also leatherette
Optional panoramic roof with dimming
4 speaker or 6 speaker or 10-speaker Bose system

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COMMENTS

- The rear headroom is style over substance, very difficult to understand why any car designer would so restrict headroom like this. OK, aerodynamics, but that shouldn't take precedence over practicality. I'm 6 ft tall with a long trunk, I'd be really cross to be cramped and on a long journey that'll be a neck problem and a visit to the osteopath. So silly and unnecessary.

- and again has a design flaw just like the aria. when I start it in the garage, the charging port is up to the wall. I don't know why. it's not on the driver's side or both.
- 20 minutes of test and not a word about charging speed, consumption on highway or autonomy. But you said twice about the rear visibility and european suspensions .. bah do you know what people want to know about ev, really?

- Just to add it looks as if UK prices will be a bit cheaper than in the EU. It should also get the full UK government grant for EVs. So it should be a competitive all round package with some good tech. I am afraid I will not be driving one.

Nice video, but I think that your price estimate is far too high. That would make it about the same price as the Ariya. It would seem more logical to me (and most other reviewers) for the price to land more in the middle between the Micra and the Ariya. I have seen 33,000 to 37,000 quoted elsewhere. Let's see what Nissan says.

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