Nissan Leaf's Successor as Electric SUV

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【Summary】Nissan will release a third-generation Leaf in 2026, transitioning from a hatchback to an electric SUV. The move comes as the Leaf faces increased competition from Chinese and South Korean brands in terms of driving range, charging speed, and technology. The new Leaf is expected to offer up to 25% more driving range and may resemble the larger Ariya SUV. Additionally, Nissan plans to introduce two more electric models before the end of the decade, including a performance sedan and another SUV.

FutureCar Staff Sep 04, 2023 12:10 AM PT

The Nissan Leaf, known as a pioneer for mass-market electric cars, is set to undergo a major transformation. According to overseas reports, the third-generation Leaf will abandon its familiar hatchback design and become an electric coupe-style SUV starting in 2026. This marks the end of the model's nearly fifteen-year run as a battery-powered hatchback.

In recent years, the Nissan Leaf has faced tough competition from Chinese and South Korean brands, which have surpassed it in terms of driving range, charging speed, and technology. As a result, the Leaf has slipped down the sales charts. To combat this, Nissan is planning to revamp the Leaf's design to appeal to a wider audience.

According to Automotive News, Nissan dealers in the US have been informed that the new Leaf could adopt a design similar to the larger Ariya SUV, departing from its traditional hatchback shape. While no official photos have been released, the "Chill-Out" concept showcased by Nissan in 2021 may provide a glimpse of what to expect from the new Leaf. Its sloping back window and increased ride height align with the desired direction for the next-generation Leaf.

One of the most significant improvements expected in the new Leaf is its driving range. Automotive News reports that the new-generation Leaf could offer up to 25 percent more range than the current model, which already boasts a range of 270km to 385km, depending on battery capacity. This boost in range could help the Leaf regain its competitive edge in the electric car market.

The next-generation Leaf is anticipated to enter production at Nissan's Sunderland factory in 2026, according to government documents cited by UK publication Autocar. This production shift signifies Nissan's commitment to electric vehicles and its goal to expand its electric model lineup.

In addition to the Leaf, Nissan is planning to introduce two more electric models before the end of the decade. One of these models will be a performance sedan, while the other is expected to be another SUV. Both models will utilize the CMF-EV electric-car platform, which is currently used in the Nissan Ariya and Renault Megane E-Tech Electric.

Looking ahead, Nissan has ambitious plans for its electric vehicle lineup. The company aims to launch a total of 15 electric cars by 2030, along with eight new hybrid models. Furthermore, Nissan has set a goal to achieve "price parity" between its electric cars and traditional petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030, despite the current price disparity.

In conclusion, the Nissan Leaf is set to undergo a significant transformation, transitioning from a hatchback to an electric coupe-style SUV. With improvements in range and the introduction of new electric models, Nissan is positioning itself to compete more effectively in the evolving electric car market.

About the author: Jordan Mulach is a Canberra/Ngunnawal native who currently resides in Brisbane/Turrbal. He joined the Drive team in 2022 and has previously worked for various automotive publications. Jordan is an avid iRacing enthusiast and enjoys spending his weekends either behind the wheel of his Octavia RS or tinkering with his ZH Fairlane.