The Nissan Leaf returns in its third generation as a compact crossover. (Photo: © Nissan)
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The Nissan Leaf was once the first electric car for the masses and now returns as a confident crossover. All the facts about the new Japanese model can be found in the driving report.
As the compact Nissan Leaf Launched in 2011, it marked the beginning of a new era and symbolically represented the dawn of the electric age: The first mass-produced electric car made automotive history. and became the world's best-selling electric car. He remained unchallenged at the top until 2019.But time didn't stand still. The competition followed suit with new electric cars, while the former electric pioneer appeared slightly dated over the years and slowly lost its luster.
With the third-generation Leaf, which will roll into showrooms in spring 2026, Nissan is attempting a fresh start. The Leaf is intended to return to the top. Technically, the electric car has improved significantly, and at the same time its appearance has also been sharpened. The Japanese model appears significantly more appealing and has shed the baroque look of earlier years. The unassuming compact has transformed into a confident crossover. The 4,35-meter-long five-door features flush-mounted door handles and striking 3D taillights on a coupé-like rear end. This gives it a distinctive and highly striking appearance.
Technically, the Leaf is based on the modular CMF-EV platform, which he bought with the larger model Ariya as well as the Megane Scenic of the alliance partner Renault shares. The Leaf, like its predecessors, will again be produced at the English plant in Sunderland.
The Leaf's interior presents itself in a contemporary style. clearly structured cockpit is with two high-resolution, 14,3-inch displays They are equipped with elements that visually blend into a single unit and are exceptionally easy to read. The centerpiece is the... "Nissan Connect" multimedia system with integrated Google services, which ensures precise navigation including real-time EV route planning.
Also the Google Assistant reliably accepts voice commands for music, calls, or destination addresses.Over-the-air updates keep the system constantly up to date. Furthermore, smartphones can also be easily integrated wirelessly into the vehicle's network.
Thanks to attractive materials and colorful accents, the interior has a cozy feel. The [missing information] creates a particularly airy atmosphere. new panoramic glass roofwhich can be dimmed in several stages. When dimmed, a subtle Leaf logo is even projected onto the glass – a nice detail that isn't intrusive. The dimmable design also has a clear practical advantage: a conventional roller blind becomes unnecessary, creating additional headroom, especially in the rear. This makes them feel comfortable. Even tall passengers are well accommodated in the second row of seats., while the space in the front is also perfectly adequate for everyday use. The furniture also proves to be comfortable.
The trunk capacity is 437 litersAfter folding down the split rear seatbacks, the load volume can be increased to up to 1.052 liters Expandable. Thanks to the double load floor, under which the charging cable can be easily stored, the surface remains nice and flat even after the rear seats are folded down. Less practical for tradespeople: The Leaf is only allowed to tow braked trailers up to a mass of 975 kilograms..
The Leaf comes in two variants. The base model combines a 52 kWh battery with a 130 kW (177 hp) electric motor and thus achieves a maximum range of up to 440 kilometersThe more powerful version, on the other hand, has a power output of 160 kW (218 PS) and has one 75 kWh battery on board, which increases the range to up to 622 kilometers elevated.
Charging from 20 to 80 percent at a fast charging station should be possible in around 30 minutes for both variants. Thanks to the standard Vehicle-to-load function (V2L) The Leaf can also power external devices such as a camping grill or an e-bike. The necessary adapter is included as standard equipment in the top-of-the-line version and is available as an option for the entry-level model. Later, the Leaf will also be able to feed energy back into the home's electrical grid.
For our first driving impression, we chose the top version with 160 kW electric motor Snatched. The drive system, specially developed by Nissan, appears powerful and high-torqueIt accelerates the Leaf from 0 to 100 km/h in a brisk 7,6 seconds. The dynamic acceleration ends at an electronically limited 160 km/h. Various driving programs and flexibly adjustable recuperation levels – including One-Pedal-Driving via paddle shifters behind the steering wheel – supporting the driver on his journey.
The one specified by Nissan Average consumption of only 13,8 kWh However, we were unable to achieve this. Even with a conservative driving style including motorway sections and a maximum speed of 110 km/h, the value could not be maintained and settled at approximately 17 kWh However, the Japanese car shines with its agile handling and very pleasant comfort. The suspension effortlessly absorbs rough surfaces.
The Leaf's numerous driver assistance systems are also a plus. They work reliably and intervene precisely. The [system name] is particularly helpful. 3D around-view monitor with real-time street visualizationThe electronics calculate a "view through" the hood, providing a direct view of the front wheels. This effectively prevents unwanted damage to the bodywork while parking.
The price of the Nissan Leaf will remain unknown until its market launch in the spring. However, it is already certain that the Entry-level version at around 31.100 euros (All prices are net) start and the top version just under 35.300 euros will be.
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