2026 Nissan LEAF named a 2026 Car and Driver Editors’ Choice winner

2026 Nissan LEAF
Image courtesy Nissasn
2026 Nissan LEAF
Image courtesy Nissasn

The all-new 2026 Nissan LEAF was named a Car and Driver Editors’ Choice winner. The annual list names the best cars, trucks, SUVs and vans from the 2026 model year, ranked across 47 unique vehicle segments.

“Redesigned for 2026, the new LEAF provides the range, performance, practicality and the value that will satisfy the demands of EV shoppers,” said Tony Quiroga, editor-in-chief, Car and Driver.

Editors’ Choice winners are selected based on Car and Driver’s instrumented testing results; editors’ assessments of how vehicles deliver in terms of mission fulfillment, value and driving enjoyment; and the rating each vehicle earns compared to segment competitors. To be named an Editors’ Choice, a vehicle must earn a rating of at least 9 out of 10 stars from Car and Driver’s reviewers.

The all-new Nissan LEAF has received a growing list of industry awards, including being named a 2026 Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Award winner; InsideEVs Breakthrough EV of the Year; Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems; World’s Best Compact Car by Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year Jury; and Car of the Year, Best EV and Best Budget Vehicle in the inaugural Buzz Awards.

The all-new electric 2026 Nissan LEAF builds on the model’s DNA of reliable, affordable and attractive EV ownership, delivering strong value for the mass market. It has an EPA-estimated driving range of up to 303 miles per charge, and a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the S+ grade of $29,990.

Now in its third generation, LEAF’s design has been completely reimagined with clean, dynamic body lines, combining a sleek profile with an SUV-like stance. A built-in NACS port with Plug & Charge functionality provides seamless access to more than 27,500 Tesla Superchargers for convenient public charging, making LEAF ideal for commuting and road trips alike.

LEAF also offers an extensive list of advanced technologies, including an available segment-first dimming panoramic roof, standard class-exclusive Intelligent Around View Monitor, 64-color ambient interior lighting, flush door handles, 3D holographic tail lamps and available dual 14.3-inch displays with Google built-in, including Google Maps.

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Jarrod

Jarrod Partridge is the founder of Motoring Chronicle and an FIA accredited journalist with over 30 years of experience following motorsport and the global automotive industry. A member of the AIPS International Sports Press Association, Jarrod has covered Formula 1 races and automotive events at venues around the world, bringing first-hand insight to every race report, car review, and industry analysis he writes. His work spans the full breadth of motoring — from the latest EV launches and road car reviews to the cutting edge of motorsport competition.

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