This new EV carries all the technology today’s car buyers expect today.
LOS ANGELES (KABC) — A new electric vehicle is arriving for 2026, wearing a familiar name.
"The all-new 2026 Nissan Leaf builds on Nissan's history with electrification, going back to 2010/2011," said Jannelle Grigsby, a spokesperson for Nissan North America.
Yes, Nissan made big news more than 15 years ago when it introduced the first-generation Leaf, bringing an affordable, mass-production EV to consumers for the first time. It was a milestone in the timeline of both innovation and occasional debate about what personal transportation should be.
A second-generation Leaf came along in 2017, bringing much improved range and a shape more like a small SUV.
Now, the third-generation Leaf is here.
It's a clean-sheet design with four times the range of that first Leaf (up to 303 miles) for about the same price.
When the original Leaf debuted as a 2012 model, the base price was right around $35,000. This new Leaf starts at $30,000, though it's sold in an era with no federal tax credits to help. Still, factoring in for inflation, the 2026 Leaf easily undercuts the 2012 Leaf.
The new EV carries all the technology today's car buyers expect, including the ability to charge with both kinds of public charging. There's also a second NACS port for using Tesla Superchargers.
But unlike some other new EVs, it still retains the CCS combo port as well, for using other home and public charging stations. Having the NACS port could make road trips much easier with the Tesla quick-charging option.
"We're excited to present that. Simplify everybody's life, bring you the best tech, and the best of Nissan," said Grigsby.
The EV segment of the auto industry has been a moving target in recent years.
What was planned a few years ago may not be coming true today. Companies have to figure out their long-term strategy, and that includes Nissan.
Which brings us to the Ariya, Nissan's other electric model. At least it was, as it's disappearing for 2026, likely a victim of both a shifting EV market and import tariffs. Nissan simply says it's focusing on the new Leaf as its signature electric model for next year.
There are obviously lots of choices for driving on battery power these days, and Nissan is cautiously staying in the game with the Leaf. It's a solid entry, not to mention the most affordable EV currently on the market.
Plus, it's got a significant history behind it.
A name that popped up first when it came to a potential future of people moving about on electricity, all those years ago.

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