NEW NISSAN LEAF FIRST LOOK AND DRIVEN

EV Channels Review

The all-new, British-built Nissan Leaf aims to reclaim its pioneering status in the EV market. This 2026 model, designed with '90s aesthetics, presents a striking departure from its predecessor, featuring a more modern and retro-inspired look with a class-leading drag coefficient of 0.25. Inside, the Leaf impresses with a spacious cabin, a plethora of physical controls, and a user-friendly infotainment system with Google built-in. Practicality is a strong suit, offering a 437-liter boot with a clever triple-decker design, though it falls short of the Kia EV3's capacity. Powertrain options include 52 kWh and 75 kWh batteries, promising up to 271 and 375 miles of range respectively, with standard vehicle-to-load and vehicle-to-grid capabilities. Charging speeds reach up to 150 kW, capable of adding 259 miles in 30 minutes. While the current offering is front-wheel drive, a dual-motor variant is anticipated. Early driving impressions highlight a refined, quiet, and comfortable ride with well-integrated regenerative braking and an engaging steering feel, particularly in sport mode. Despite a slightly punchier price point starting around £34,000, the new Leaf appears to be a compelling, premium-feeling, and potentially budget-friendly UK-built EV.