2026 Nissan Leaf spied with crossover body

Nissan has been spotted testing a prototype for a redesigned Leaf, the automaker’s nameplate for its first volume electric vehicle.

The prototype is for a third-generation Leaf expected to launch next year, meaning we’ll likely see it arrive as a 2026 model in the U.S.

The first two generations of the Leaf have been compact hatchbacks, but the prototype points to a compact crossover with a coupe-like roofline for the new generation. The design appears to take inspiration from Nissan’s Chill-Out concept rolled out in late 2021. Even the concept’s cross-like wheel design has been reinterpreted for production.

The platform is thought to be the Renault Nissan Mitsubishi Alliance’s CMF-EV design, which is found in the larger Nissan Ariya, as well as some Renault models sold overseas.

While the current Leaf is offered with a single motor at the front only, the new generation may offer buyers the option of a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup for the first time.

Range should also be higher than the maximum 212-mile EPA estimate of the current Leaf. Rumors point to an improvement of at least 25%, which would take the range up to around 265 miles.

The current Leaf starts at about $30,000 in the U.S. The new one will likely cost more given the increase in range and switch to a crossover body.

One of the planned production locations for the vehicle is thought to be Nissan’s plant in Sunderland, U.K., where the current Leaf is built. Nissan aims to turn the site into a hub for EVs, complete with a battery plant nearby.