Nissan introduced the Leaf, a simple hatchback that pushed electric vehicles into the public, fifteen years ago. By 2026, the Nissan Leaf has evolved into a compact SUV while remaining America’s most cheap electric vehicle. It starts at $29,990, which is lower than its 2011 debut price and includes a 303-mile range, a Tesla-compatible charging station, and a new design.
The 2026 Leaf comes in three trims—S+, SV+ and Platinum+—for $29,990, $34,230 and $38,990 respectively. A base S trim with a smaller battery and shorter range will be even cheaper but Nissan hasn’t shared those details yet. Compare that to the Chevrolet Equinox EV which starts around $5,000 more and the Leaf’s value is clear. Even more impressive? The SV+ trim is $2,000 cheaper than the 2025 model and has more features and more range.
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Step inside and the Leaf feels like a modern oasis.Clean lines and a minimalist dashboard give an airy atmosphere, while dual displays—12.3 inches for S and S+, 14.3 inches for SV+ and Platinum+—center the technology. The inside prioritizes space, with a flat floor beneath the dashboard and reworked seats that allow second-row passengers additional knee room. A panoramic roof that goes from opaque to transparent with a button adds a touch of luxury, while the motorized flush door handles, a first for Nissan’s production cars, and a roofline inspired by the Z sports car, give the exterior a modern edge.
The top three trims share a 75 kWh battery for 303 miles of range for the S+, 288 miles for the SV+ and 259 miles for the Platinum+. That’s a huge jump from the 73 miles of the 2011 model. Whether you’re commuting or planning a weekend road trip these numbers make the Leaf a serious contender. Charging is just as practical with a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port for Tesla’s 20,000+ Superchargers and a J1772 port for slower AC charging.
Google built-in including Google Maps with an Intelligent Route Planner makes navigation a breeze. Standard camera systems like Intelligent Around View Monitor, Invisible Hood View and Front Wide View give you confidence in tight spaces. These aren’t just fancy features—they’re practical tools that make daily driving easier. The Leaf’s 131 MPGe city and 111 MPGe highway rating keeps costs low.
The Leaf balances style, range and tech in a way that feels natural not forced. It’s a car for people who want electric driving without the premium price or the complexity of over-engineered competitors. As it hits dealerships this fall the 2026 Leaf proves going electric can be affordable, practical and fun.
