New Nissan Leaf 2025 (2025 - )

All the leaves are brown, and the sky is grey. But don't be glum - because the new Nissan Leaf is here!

The Leaf - hailed as the pioneering mass-market electric vehicle since its debut in 2011 - has made a much-anticipated return, writes motoring journalist Tim Barnes-Clay.

Made here in the United Kingdom at Nissan's EV production facility in Sunderland, the completely revamped third-generation model has recently made its debut on the roads of Copenhagen.

It boasts an impressive range of up to 386 miles, a sleek new design, advanced integrated technology, and a variety of enhanced driver assistance features.

We went to Denmark to be among the first to drive it.
 

Designed at Nissan's Global Design Studio in Japan, and manufactured, as mentioned, in Sunderland, the all-new Leaf showcases a dynamic crossover appearance that harmoniously combines aerodynamic efficiency with visual impact.

With a drag coefficient of only 0.25, the Leaf's clean, flowing design not only looks sexy and commands attention on the road, but it also contributes to the car's efficiency.

Supporting its athletic aesthetic, the fresh Leaf features a range of upgraded exterior components, clearly crafted to attract attention and demonstrate that Nissan's zero-emission vehicles don't compromise on style. These include flush-mounted door handles, sculpted surfaces with a flowing roofline, a distinctive 3D taillight signature, optional 19-inch alloy wheels designed for aerodynamics (standard on the highest trim), and a dimming panoramic roof with subtle Leaf-embossed detailing.

Nissan offers two battery choices - 52 kWh and 75 kWh - along with four distinct trim levels referred to as grades: Engage, Engage+, Advance, and Evolve. The top-tier Evolve trim, driven here with the larger, more powerful 75 kWh battery, includes a head-up display, electric seat adjustments, and a massage function for added comfort. Additionally, the premium Bose audio system is standard on higher trims.

Within the Leaf, twin 14.3-inch screens - one for the instrument cluster and the other centrally located - create a fully digital cockpit. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are factory-fitted, and the climate controls are touch-sensitive, distinct from the touchscreen. 
The entry-level Leaf has a basic Nissan system, whereas higher grades offer an enhanced Google unit. The latter, fitted to our test car, includes features such as Google Maps with an in-car route Planner, designed for intuitive navigation and automated journey planning to optimise charging. 
Additionally, Google Assistant enables hands-free control of navigation, media, climate, and various other functions. The inclusion of the Google Play Store gives access to a bunch of apps, streaming services, and productivity tools, too. 
The Leaf is also packed with a suite of safety systems. From Intelligent Emergency Braking and Blind Spot Intervention to Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Keep Assist, the Nissan is engineered to deliver peace of mind. Additional features such as the 3D Around View Monitor, Invisible Bonnet View, and Front Wide View make parking and navigating tight spaces easier and safer.
 

The new Nissan Leaf is available in two performance variants: 174 and 215 horsepower, achieving 0-62 mph in 8.26 seconds and 7.6 seconds, respectively, with Sport mode activated. Top speed is 100mph.
At present, and as alluded to, we've only had the opportunity to test the more potent, bigger battery version, which produces greater torque. The acceleration is certainly impressive, even if performance isn't the primary focus for Nissan.

Handling isn’t bad, but it lacks engagement. The car offers good grip, though it can be easily exceeded, and there’s some lean in corners due to the Leaf's SUV-like stance. 
At moderate speeds, the vehicle responds well to steering inputs, and while Sport mode adds some weight to the steering, it doesn't dramatically alter the driving feel. Regenerative braking is managed via paddles on the steering wheel, and there's an option to switch on the 'e-Pedal' mode.
Overall, driving the Leaf is peaceful, thanks to effective soundproofing, although wind noise from the mirrors can be a drawback at higher speeds. The ride is comfortable but can feel somewhat bouncy when navigating uneven surfaces.
 

The cabin features a relatively spacious and family-oriented design, offering up to 437 litres of storage capacity in the boot. 

The Leaf is far roomier in the front than the back, though. Indeed, with another five-foot-11-inch-tall journalist sitting behind me (I’m the same height), he was pretty uncomfortable. We switched places after a while, and you can’t get your feet under the front seats, which means stretching out is an issue. Width-wise, things are okay for three adults – but ultimately, two people will be happier in the back, or three kids who don’t require child seats. 

Features like a powered liftgate to the decently-sized boot - and roof rails enhance versatility – and there are storage areas in the cabin for mugs/bottles of water, and the like. Oh, and if you need even more cargo space, you can kick the rear passengers out and fold the rear seats, which split 60/40. Mind you, there's no ski hatch, but hey, ho.

The zero-emissions Leaf is equipped with a 52 kWh battery pack, offering a range of 271 miles - an impressive improvement over its predecessor. However, if you opt for the larger 75 kWh battery, fitted to our test car, you can officially do up to 386 miles. During our initial test drive at the Leaf's media launch in Scandinavia, we noted a potential range of 269 miles while maintaining a speed of 70mph.

Both battery sizes support rapid charging capabilities of 105 kW and 150 kW, allowing for a 20-80% charge in just under 30 minutes. The WLTP consumption figures are rated at 4.5 miles per kWh for both variants.

The Leaf is equipped with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, allowing you to power small devices like laptops or even cooking gear when camping. It is also set to be Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) ready in the future, facilitating energy return to the grid.
The starting price is £33,000 for the smaller battery Leaf, with the larger battery priced at £36,000 – these figures apply to the entry-level Engage trim. Details on the additional cost for the premium Evolve grade are expected to be revealed shortly. The good news is that the latest Leaf is expected to qualify for the extra UK Electric Car Grant of £3,750.

The latest Leaf is backed by a three-year or 60,000-mile warranty (with EV-specific components covered for five years or 60,000 miles), alongside an eight-year, 100,000-mile guarantee for Nissan's battery.

The new Leaf is a fine choice if you're after a reasonably priced all-electric vehicle that'll do lots of miles on one charge. It is a real upgrade over its predecessor, with reasonable enough practicality, a stylish if not opulent interior, and an appealing exterior that enhances its overall allure.

This latest version offers a comfortable ride, decent performance, and satisfactory handling. It is also worth mentioning the impressive array of tech, particularly in the higher trim levels. 

Deliveries are scheduled to kick in during February 2026.