Nissan just pulled the wraps off its third-generation Leaf, finally bolstering its EV lineup with a successor to the hatchback that started it all.

Except it isn’t really a hatchback anymore. As part of its glow-up for 2026, the Leaf adapts an SUV-like look, complete with body cladding, swooping lines, and proportions heavily influenced by the Ariya. Nissan also touts the 2026 Leaf is the first model in their lineup with retractable door handles, not unlike those of the 2025 QX80, which no doubt contribute to its improved drag coefficient of 0.26.

Inside, the 2026 Leaf adapts a cabin layout once again drawing heavy influence from nearly everything else in its lineup. Twin 12.3-inch displays living under one panel will come standard, while upper-spec trims ship with upsized 14.3-inch screens. Both setups run Google’s infotainment software, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the board, and the Leaf receives neat tech tricks like Nissan’s “invisible hood” view.

All but the base Leaf will have a 75 kWh lithium-ion battery pack; working with a single front-mounted electric motor, count on 214 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque. The base Leaf uses a 52 kWh battery pack, but expect 174 hp and 254 lb-ft of torque in that application.

As for range and charging, Nissan says we can expect up to 488 kilometres, and you can charge it using one of two ports, including a Tesla-style NACS port. No matter how you slice it, both setups are big improvements over their predecessors, though we’ll miss the outgoing Leaf’s front-and-centre charge port.

Nissan hasn’t announced pricing just yet, but expect to see the 2026 Leaf hit dealers this fall.