The new Nissan LEAF already looks like a major upgrade. The little electric hatchback is due for a refresh, and we are finally getting a better idea of what to expect after the new model was spotted again in the US and Europe. New images reveal more of its crossover-like design.
The new Nissan LEAF is almost here
Launched in 2010, the LEAF was the world’s first mass-market electric vehicle. Over 15 years later, Nissan’s electric hatch has fallen out of favor, with over an EV from nearly every brand now on the market.
Nissan is preparing to launch the next-gen LEAF, which promises 25% more driving range, faster charging, and a sleek new style.
According to Nissan, the company previewed it with the Chill Out concept in 2021. After showing the new models to dealers, several described it as a crossover coupe and closer in design to the Ariya electric SUV. One even said it looked like a “mini Ariya.”
With an official debut expected later this year, the new Nissan LEAF is starting to pop up in public places for testing. Several photos are beginning to emerge online, capturing the upgraded model.
Last month, we got our first look at the new model testing in the US. Although it was covered, you can still see that the next-gen LEAF has a better overall shape and design than the one we are used to seeing.
New images surfaced this week courtesy of Kindelauto, confirming the new LEAF will, in fact, be a crossover coupe. You can already tell it sits higher off the ground with a more aerodynamic sport profile.
The new LEAF was caught in Colorado Springs. Check back soon for more info leading up to its launch. Nissan is expected to officially reveal the new LEAF as a 2026 model later this year.
Update 2/12/2025: New spy photos captured the next-gen LEAF in Europe. The new model is from its Sunderland, UK plant, where Nissan will build its next-gen EVs, including the LEAF, Juke, and Qashqai.
Top comment by Dan B
You know, many years ago we used to call them cars. Some were sedan type. Some were hatchbacks. And some were what they called liftbacks. In fact, my first hand-me-down car when I got my license was a 1979 Toyota Corolla Liftback. I recall GM having some Buick and Olds models (I think Century and Cutlass?) in 2 and 4 doors with the sloping rear end. Nobody called them crossovers.
Now here we are today and the catch phrase is now SUV or crossover. If they can't call it one of those (or a truck), then they must think nobody will buy them. Allow me to give an example of what I'm speaking of.
Sedans: Cadillac CT4/5. Camry. Malibu.
Hatchbacks: Bolt EV. VW Golf. Mitsubishi Mirage.
Liftbacks: BMW X4 coupe (SUV), Porsche Macan/Panamera, Kia EV6.
Wagons: Volvo V60/90, Audi A6 Allroad.
SUV's: Tahoe, Explorer, Pilot, CX5, etc.
Trucks: Silverado, F150, Ram.
It seems to me that the manufacturers have taken it upon themselves to take all hatchbacks, liftbacks, wagons and just lump them in as SUV's. This new Leaf doesn't seem to be any more a "crossover" or SUV than my Bolt EV.
Nissan ended production of the current LEAF at its UK facility early last year after 13 years to prep for the next-gen model. In the US, Nissan is expected to discontinue production by the end of 2025.
The LEAF will compete in the US against another next-gen EV and an old rival, the Chevy Bolt, which is also due to return later this year. With its debut around the corner, we got our first glimpse last week of what appears to be the new Bolt EV model (check out the video).
How do you feel about the new LEAF? Do you like the crossover design? In my opinion, it’s a drastic upgrade from the outgoing model. At least from what we’ve seen so far. Let us know what you think in the comments.
Source: Kindelauto
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