2026 Nissan LEAF – Unpacking More Performance and Efficiency

Saudi Arabia : The third-gen LEAF is likely to be fully revealed later this month and is expected to launch by the end of 2025.

• The new Nissan LEAF will be quieter and offer more space.
• The premium EV now comes with a stronger structure and better-turning radius.
• Enhanced thermal management enables quick charging in low temperatures.

Nissan has shared new details in the second part of the LEAF Insights video series. The first video focused on the car’s aerodynamics and shared details about the battery and charging system. This new video offers a glimpse of the car’s electric motor and the platform it uses. It hints at what’s coming next for the next-generation Leaf.

The third-generation LEAF focuses on improvements to the suspension and handling, as well as better heat regeneration and a quieter, more polished interior. According to Richard Candler, the Vice President of global product strategy, the new LEAF offers a smooth, responsive, and confident driving experience. Every part of it has been improved to make it more efficient.

Efficiency and Space

The new LEAF model features Nissan's latest 3-in-1 electric powertrain. It is 10 per cent smaller compared to the motor in the previous LEAF, yet it delivers up to 214 hp of power and 355 Nm of torque in certain versions.

Sound and vibration have been improved, making the cabin serene and smoother. At city speeds of around 50 kmph, the new LEAF's interior is up to 2 decibels quieter than the second-generation model, which was already quiet.

Thanks to its compact motor, Nissan has placed the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system under the hood instead of behind the dashboard. This modification makes the interior feel more open and spacious.

Better Suspension and Handling

The multi-link rear suspension of the all-new LEAF adds 66 per cent more sideways rigidity.  The car is now more agile and comfortable to drive thanks to the new CMF-EV platform, and a stronger body construction.

Even with bigger 19-inch wheels available, the new LEAF can turn more sharply. It reduces its turning radius by up to 0.1 meters (3.94 inches), making it easier to handle in city streets. This is thanks to an improved rack electronic power steering system, which helps achieve a turning radius of at least 5.3 meters.

Enhanced Thermal Management

The group in charge of vehicle development was headed by Hiroki Isobe, Chief Vehicle Engineer based in Atsugi, Japan.  They put a lot of effort into cutting energy waste and enhancing thermal management.  Their ability to absorb heat from the on-board charger and use it to warm the battery is one of their important features.

The new liquid-cooled batteries have a special thermal recovery system to aid the process. In order to pre-warm the battery, particularly during cold weather, this device gathers heat from the charger.  This implies that the battery can function better in colder temperatures and recharge more rapidly.  Additionally, it contributes to energy conservation, which may result in a greater driving range.

The upgraded powertrain, advanced thermal system, new platform, and better rear suspension work together. They create a driving experience that feels smooth, refined, and confident.

Stay tuned for more details on the new Leaf. The next video will probably come out later this week or early next week.