Nissan has just unveiled the new Nissan Leaf — the model that originally helped spark the mass adoption of electric cars.
While the previous Leaf had a traditional hatchback shape, the new version enters the crossover segment with a significantly updated design.
New Nissan Leaf: from Hatchback to Fastback Crossover
The new Nissan Leaf distances itself from the soft, somewhat anonymous look of earlier models and embraces a bold new design era inspired by both the Tesla Model Y and Nissan’s own 400Z sports car. The front features sharp LED headlights and a body-colored panel, while an active grille shutter optimizes airflow to improve aerodynamics.
From the side, the Nissan Leaf has a more angular, aggressive profile that somewhat resembles the Citroën ë-C4. The front doors have flush-mounted hidden handles, and the rear handles are concealed in the C-pillar. The rear is finished off with a sporty spoiler and dark-tinted LED taillights — overall, the car has a more coupé-crossover feel than a traditional hatchback. The new Nissan Leaf is slightly shorter than its predecessor, with a length of 4,405 mm and a wheelbase of 2,690 mm.
But the real focus is on aerodynamics: Nissan claims this is their most streamlined model to date, with a drag coefficient of 0.25 in Europe. It shares its platform with the Nissan Ariya, which brings a flat floor and improved interior space. Unlike the larger SUV, however, the Nissan Leaf is only available with front-wheel drive and a single electric motor. The base version comes with a 52 kWh battery and delivers 174 hp and 345 Nm of torque. The top version is equipped with a larger 75 kWh battery and produces 214 hp and 355 Nm of torque. Nissan Leaf promises a driving range of up to 488 km (WLTP) for the larger battery. Fast charging supports up to 150 kW DC, enabling 10% to 80% charge in 35 minutes — or roughly 250 km of range in just 14 minutes. According to Nissan, that’s equivalent to the average time an ICE driver spends at a gas station.
Specs
| Variant | Battery Capacity | Power | Torque | Range (WLTP) | 0–80% Charging Time | 0–100 km/h | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaf 52 kWh | 52 kWh | 174 hp | 345 Nm | Not disclosed | ~35 min (150 kW DC) | Not disclosed | Front-wheel drive |
| Leaf 75 kWh | 75 kWh | 214 hp | 355 Nm | Up to 488 km | ~35 min (150 kW DC) | Not disclosed | Front-wheel drive |
Minimalist Interior
The cabin is completely redesigned with a focus on minimalism, reminding us of how much we appreciated the Ariya’s interior. Depending on the version, the Nissan Leaf offers either dual 12.3-inch displays or a larger 14.3-inch central touchscreen.
Controls are managed through a combination of touch shortcuts and physical buttons, while the traditional gear shifter has been replaced with push buttons. One of the more eye-catching options is a panoramic glass roof with e-Dimming technology. Top-spec models can also be equipped with a Bose sound system with speakers integrated into the headrests, along with advanced driver assistance features like a 3D surround camera, “invisible hood” view, and intelligent adaptive cruise control.
Tailored for Global Markets
Depending on the market, specific design details such as wheel styles and side mirrors are adjusted. In the U.S., for example, the Nissan Leaf features amber turn signals integrated into the wheel arches. Charging port configurations also vary between Europe, the U.S., and Japan. This next-generation Nissan Leaf is not just an update — it’s a full rebirth. The previous Leaf was one of the first EVs that truly appealed to Danish buyers, and there’s every reason to believe that the new one will find success in Denmark as well. The new Nissan Leaf looks like a genuinely practical and compelling car.
