[2026 Model] What are the 10 evolved features of the new Nissan Leaf? A detailed explanation of its superior features

In October 2025, Nissan’s electric vehicle (EV) “LEAF” will undergo its first full model change in 14 years. It will be released on January 15, 2026. The first-generation LEAF was released in 2010 and has been a pioneer that has led the Japanese EV market. The new LEAF has undergone astonishing evolution, with a dramatic transformation into an SUV, a range of 702 km, and the incorporation of cutting-edge technology.

This article thoroughly explains the advantages and benefits of the new Leaf . It will tell you the true appeal of the new Leaf for those who are considering purchasing one or are interested in EVs.

Basic information and grade structure of the new Leaf

Price and grade list

grade	price	battery	Cruising range (WLTC)	Release date
B7 X	5,188,700 yen	78kWh	702km	Release date: January 15, 2026
B7 G	5,999,400 yen	78kWh	685km	Release date: January 15, 2026
B7 AUTECH	6,513,100 yen	78kWh	–	Release date: January 15, 2026
B5 (planned)	Undisclosed	55kWh	490km	Announced in February 2026

Key specifications

• Body size : Length 4,360mm x Width 1,810mm x Height 1,550-1,565mm
• Wheelbase : 2,690mm
• Minimum turning radius : 5.3m
• Powertrain : Front motor (FF only)
• Maximum output : 218ps (B7), 177ps (planned for B5)
• Maximum torque : 36.2kgm (B7), 35.2kgm (B5 planned)

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Nissan Leaf Full Model Change | Japan Model Announced October 8, 2025 ZE2 Type Full Description On October 8, 2025, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced the third-generation, fully redesigned Leaf (ZE2). Prices are 5,188,700 yen for the B7 X and 5,999,400 yen for the B7 G. The 55kWh battery…

10 great things about the new Leaf

1. A cruising range of 702km, one of the best in Japan for an EV

The biggest appeal of the new Leaf is its impressive WLTC range of 702km .

Comparison with previous model

Model	battery	Range	Improvement range
Previous Leaf (40kWh)	40kWh	322km	–
Previous Leaf (62kWh)	62kWh	450km	–
New Leaf B5	55kWh	490km	+168km (vs. 40kWh)
New Leaf B7	78kWh	702km	+252km (vs. 62kWh)

Estimated practical range :

• Expressway : Approximately 550-600km (equivalent to approximately 80%)
• General roads and urban areas : Approximately 600-650 km (equivalent to approximately 85-90%)
• When using air conditioning : Approximately 500-550km (equivalent to approximately 70-80%)

With this range, it is possible to travel the distance between Tokyo and Osaka (approximately 500 km) without charging. This performance overturns the common belief that EVs are not suitable for long-distance driving.

Evolution of battery management technology

The new Leaf is equipped with a new technology called ” Navi-link Battery Conditioning .”

Key features:

• Route-based temperature management : Analyzes the route to your destination and optimizes battery temperature, taking into account uphill and downhill slopes.
• Pre-charge preconditioning : Heats the battery to the optimum temperature before the fast charger arrives, maximizing charging efficiency
• Heat recovery in keeping with the spirit of “mottainai” (not to waste ): Waste heat generated by the motor, inverter, USB port, and wireless charger is recycled into the air conditioning system

Thanks to “intelligent battery management” that even Tesla owners are amazed at, the car achieves a practical driving range close to the catalog specifications.

2. Incredibly faster charging speeds

The new Leaf’s charging performance has also been significantly improved.

Fast charging performance

When using a 150kW fast charger :

• 15-minute charge : recovers approximately 250-300km of driving range
• 30 minutes of charging : Battery level 10% → fully charged to 80%
• Coffee break time is enough : practical charging completed during toilet breaks and meals

Comparison with previous model

item	Previous Leaf	New Leaf B7
Maximum Charging Output	50-100kW	150kW
Recovery distance after 30 minutes of charging	About 80-150km	Approximately 330-470km
10% to 80% charging time	Approximately 40-60 minutes	Approximately 35 minutes

This charging speed is comparable to Tesla’s Superchargers . Test drive reports have also praised the car, with one commenting, “If I can travel 250km with just 15 minutes of charging, my worries about long-distance driving are completely alleviated.”

Supports multiple charging methods

• Rapid charging (CHAdeMO) : up to 150kW
• Normal charging (AC) : Maximum 6kW (ideal for home charging)
• V2L function : Power supply from vehicle to external devices (1.5kW)

3. Innovative 3-in-1 electric powertrain

The new Leaf is equipped with Nissan’s newly developed 3-in-1 electric powertrain, an advanced technology that won a prestigious American award in 2025.

Differences from conventional models

Conventional electric powertrain :

• The motor, inverter, and reducer are each independently arranged
• Vibrations and noise are generated from the connections between parts
• Larger packaging and heavier weight

New 3-in-1 powertrain :

• Motor, inverter, and reducer integrated
• 10% reduction in volume and weight
• Maximum torque increased by 4% (improved power density)
• Vibration level reduced to 1/4
• Noise reduction of 2dB (approximately 15-20% quieter to the human ear)

4. Best-in-class quietness and premium ride comfort

The new Leaf is designed to thoroughly pursue a ” quiet and comfortable travel space .”

Technology to improve quietness

1. Aerodynamic optimization :

• Achieves a Cd value of 0.26 (top level in its class)
• 10% reduction in wind noise when driving at 100km/h
• Flush door handles reduce air resistance
• More than 95% of the underfloor surface is smoothed to within 5cm of unevenness

2. Significant improvement in body rigidity :

• Torsional rigidity improved by 86% (almost double that of the previous model)
• Lateral rigidity improved by 66%
• Steering rigidity improved by 48%
• Adoption of CMF-EV platform

3. Improved suspension performance :

• Newly adopted multi-link rear suspension
• 28% reduction in vertical vibration
• Effectively absorbs impacts from the road surface

5. Compact body size optimized for Japan’s road conditions

The new Leaf has undergone a full model change and is 120mm shorter than its predecessor . Normally, full model changes tend to result in larger vehicles, but the new Leaf goes against this trend. This is a design that thoroughly takes the Japanese market into consideration.

Body size comparison

Comparison items	New Leaf	Previous Leaf	Mazda 3	Toyota Prius
full length	4,360mm	4,480mm	4,460mm	4,600mm
Overall width	1,810mm	1,790mm	1,795mm	1,780mm
Overall height	1,550mm	1,560mm	1,440mm	1,420mm
Wheelbase	2,690mm	2,700mm	2,725mm	2,750mm

Adaptability to the Japanese parking environment

Multi-storey car park compatible :

• Overall width 1,810mm: Easily fits into parking spaces with a width limit of 1.85m
• Overall height: 1,550mm: Suitable for most low-rise multi-storey car parks (1.55m limit)
• Minimum turning radius of 5.3m: Easy to maneuver even in narrow alleys

Note : Vehicles equipped with ProPilot 2.0 will have a height of 1,565mm and will not be able to fit into some Loaf car parks.

The ingenuity of design

Despite its shorter overall length, the SUV styling gives it a ” large and powerful impression .” Large 19-inch wheels, flared fender arches, and a fastback roofline give the compact body a more imposing appearance.

6. Advanced and luxurious interior equipment

The interior of the new Leaf is sophisticated and luxurious, defying conventional wisdom about Japanese cars.

14.3-inch dual display

Monolith Style Design :

• Both the meter and navigation system have a large 14.3-inch screen.
• Integrated landscape display for a futuristic feel
• The largest display size among Japanese cars

Google built-in features :

• Native Google Maps (always up-to-date map information)
• The app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store
• Voice control with Google Assistant
• Intuitive operation with the same feel as a smartphone

Connectivity :

• Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto
• Wi-Fi connection
• Real-time information obtained through constant internet connection

BOSE Personal Plus Premium Audio System

10-speaker configuration (B7 G grade):

• Headrest speakers built into the left and right front seats (an industry first)
• A total of 10 speakers in the doors, dashboard and rear
• Immersive sound with BOSE tuning

Unique EV acoustic experience :

• Zero engine noise allows for delicate expression of music
• Clear reproduction from low to high frequencies
• Low road noise for a concert hall-like experience

Dimmable panoramic glass roof

Electronic dimming technology :

• Transparency can be adjusted with one button (4 levels)
• Individual dimming for front only/rear only/full surface
• Infrared reflective coating prevents temperature rise inside the vehicle

Openness and comfort :

• A large glass roof that allows rear-seat passengers to look up at the sky
• Dimming blocks out the summer sun and reduces the load on the air conditioner
• In winter, it is made transparent to let in sunlight and improve heating efficiency.

Other luxury equipment

Interior Texture :

• Dashboard top: Soft pad finish
• Ambient light with 64 colors to choose from
• High-quality white and blue color coordination
• The fabric material has a high quality feel (even the X grade is highly satisfying).

Seat Features :

• Zero gravity seat (less fatigue even over long distances)
• Heated seats are standard on all grades
• Power seat (G grade)

Convenience Features :

• Button-type shift (clean center console)
• Wireless charging
• Intelligent Rearview Mirror
• Head-up display

7. Groundbreaking driving assistance system “Intelligent Distance Control”

All new Leaf models come standard with Nissan’s newly developed Intelligent Distance Control .

Feature Overview

Vehicle distance adjustment even when cruise control is not in use :

• When the vehicle gets too close to the vehicle ahead, the system automatically starts slowing down when the accelerator is released.
• If the vehicle ahead stops, your vehicle will also be controlled to a complete stop
• With stop hold function

Comparison with competing technologies

system	Response speed	complete stop	Manufacturer
Proactive Driving Assist	Full vehicle speed	×(up to 15km/h)	Toyota
Intelligent Distance Control	Full vehicle speed	○(up to 0km/h)	Nissan
Traffic Jam Assist	60km/h or less	○	Honda

Beyond Toyota’s system :

• Toyota’s warning sounds when the vehicle is traveling at speeds below 15km/h, requiring the driver to apply the brakes.
• Nissan automatically controls the car until it comes to a complete stop, so no braking is required.

EV-specific benefits: integration with regenerative braking

The deceleration for this function is done by regenerative braking , so:

• Kinetic energy is recovered in the battery (no waste)
• It is not discarded as heat like conventional brakes
• Contributes to extending the cruising range

8. Hands-free driving on highways with ProPilot 2.0

The top-of-the-line B7 G model comes with ProPilot 2.0 as an option.

Main features of ProPilot 2.0

Hands-off driving :

• Hands-free driving possible at all speeds on expressways
• Follows up to speed limit + 10km/h
• Eyes-on (eye gaze monitoring) system checks whether the driver is looking ahead

Lane Change Assist :

• Linked to the navigation system, it suggests lane changes at the right time
• Automatic lane changes are performed by operating the turn signal

Overtaking Assistance :

• If the vehicle ahead is slow, suggest overtaking
• Automatic overtaking with driver approval

Comparison with competitors

system	Hands-off	Corresponding roads	Lane change
ProPilot 2.0	○	Expressway	○(semi-automatic)
Tesla Autopilot	×	All roads	○(Auto)
Toyota Advanced Drive	○	Expressway	○(Auto)

Advantages over Tesla :

• Tesla is not approved for hands-off driving in Japan
• ProPilot 2.0 is a legal hands-off system approved by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.

The small number of models available is actually an attraction

Nissan vehicles equipped with ProPilot 2.0:

• Aria
• Serena LUXION
• New Leaf (optional)

The great appeal of the new Leaf is that this advanced technology can be selected in an EV priced in the 5 million yen range .

9. Beautiful and functional SUV-style design

The new Leaf has undergone a major transformation from the traditional hatchback style to an SUV fastback style .

Exterior design features

Front design :

• Digital V-Motion Grille : Nissan’s latest design language
• Sharp LED headlights
• Combining innovation and power

Side view :

• Protruding fender arch molding
• Side lower molding emphasizes the SUV look
• Large diameter wheels: 18-inch (X)/19-inch (G)
• The wheel design also features futuristic digital graphics

Rear Design :

• LED 3-holographic rear combination lamp
• Two vertical lines and three horizontal lines represent Nissan’s “2 and 3”
• Wide and low style reminiscent of the Fairlady Z

The hidden motif of 2 and 3

The body of the new Leaf is dotted with hidden ” 2 and 3 ” elements:

• Rear lamp: 2 vertical x 3 horizontal LED lines
• Wheel design
• interior decoration

This “treasure hunt” element increases the owner’s satisfaction with ownership.

Design Evaluation

Positive comments :

• “It’s stylish and cool. It’s completely different from its predecessor.”
• “It’s like a mini Aria, but with a luxurious feel.”
• “SUV style is in line with the current era”

Negative comments :

• “Hard to distinguish from Aria.”
• “The unique design of the previous model was more distinctive.”

Opinions on the design are divided, but there’s no doubt that it’s a design that makes you want to consider purchasing it.

10. Cost-effective and comprehensive standard equipment

The new Leaf offers equipment and performance that matches or exceeds its price.

Standard equipment for the B7 X grade (5.18 million yen)

Safety equipment :

• Intelligent Distance Control
• Intelligent Emergency Braking
• Pedal misapplication prevention assist
• Lane Departure Warning
• Wobble alarm
• Sign detection function
• Intelligent Rearview Mirror
• 360-degree camera

Comfort features :

• 14.3-inch dual display
• Google Built-in (Maps, Play Store, Assistant)
• Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto
• Seat heaters (front seats)
• Heated steering wheel
• Head-up display
• 18-inch aluminum wheels
• LED headlights
• Auto lights
• Rain-sensing wipers

Price comparison with competitors

Car model	Range	price	kWh unit price
New Leaf B7 X	702km	5,189,000 yen	Approximately 74,000 yen/km
Toyota bZ4X	559km	5.5 million yen	Approximately 98,000 yen/km
Tesla Model 3 RWD	627km	6.31 million yen	Approximately 101,000 yen/km
Hyundai IONIQ 5	470km	5.39 million yen	Approximately 115,000 yen/km

When comparing the price per mileage , it is clear that the new Leaf offers very high cost performance.

Expectations for the B5 grade (released in February 2026)

The B5 grade with a 55kWh battery has an undisclosed price:

• Estimated price : around 4.5 million yen
• Range : 490km
• Target : Users who mainly use it for everyday use and value for money

If this grade is released, EVs may become more popular among an even wider range of people.

People who are particularly recommended for the new Leaf

Comprehensive comparison of the new Leaf with competing vehicles

Comparison with Toyota bZ4X

The new Leaf excels in :

• Range is over 140km longer (702km vs 559km)
• The price is about 300,000 yen cheaper (5.18 million yen vs 5.5 million yen)
• Faster charging speed (150kW vs 90kW)
• Larger dual displays (14.3 inches vs 12.3 inches)

bZ4X is great for :

• 4WD model available
• Toyota’s sales network and support system
• Available for subscription “KINTO”

Comparison with Tesla Model 3

The new Leaf excels in :

• ProPilot 2.0 enables legal hands-free driving
• The price is over 1 million yen cheaper (5.18 million yen vs 6.31 million yen)
• The peace of mind and support of Japanese cars
• Intelligent Distance Control is standard equipment

Tesla Model 3 Advantages :

• Supercharger Network
• Fast acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (4.4 seconds)
• Software update adds new features
• Seat ventilation equipment

Comparison with Hyundai IONIQ 5

The new Leaf excels in :

• Range is over 100km longer (702km vs 610km)
• Compact and easy to handle
• Brand power as a domestically produced car
• Extensive standard equipment

IONIQ 5 stands out with :

• 800V fast charging system (even faster charging speed)
• 4WD model available
• Powerful V2L function (3.6kW)
• Innovative design

Summary: Is the new Leaf worth buying?

The new Nissan Leaf is the first full model change in 14 years, evolving into a true EV masterpiece .

Reconfirming the 10 excellent points

Points to consider when making a purchase decision

Final evaluation

The new Leaf deserves high praise as a Japanese-made EV that eliminates concerns about EVs . It boasts class-leading range, charging speed, quietness, and driving assistance.

In particular, its performance, which overturns conventional wisdom that “EVs are not suitable for long distances” and “charge times are long,” could be a turning point in the spread of EVs.

On sale from October 2025. We recommend booking a test drive at a Nissan dealer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long will the new Leaf be delivered?

A: As of October 2025, it is expected to be about 2-3 months. Delivery times may be longer for popular models.

Q2: Is it necessary to charge at home?

A: It is not necessary, but it is convenient to have a 6kW standard charging facility. You can charge overnight and have the car fully charged the next morning.

Q3: How much is the electricity bill?

A: Approximately 1,500-2,000 yen/month when using nighttime electricity (if driving 1,000km per month). This is about 1/3-1/4 of the cost of a gasoline car.

Q4: Will the battery deteriorate?

A: Nissan offers an 8-year/160,000km warranty. With proper use, it is expected that the battery will retain more than 80% of its capacity even after 10 years.

Q5: What is the range in winter?

A: When the outside temperature is around 0 degrees, the range drops to about 70-80%. However, it can still travel about 500km.