California – Nissan Launches 2026 Leaf, Sets EV Price Benchmark at $29,990

Nissan has confirmed pricing for its 2026 Leaf, claiming it will be the most affordable EV on the American market. The Leaf S+ starts at $29,990, while the range-topping Platinum+ trim will retail for $38,990, offering up to 259 miles per charge.

The entry-level price is around $3,000 cheaper than the first-generation Leaf in 2011 and undercuts the outgoing 2025 model. Nissan will also announce a base S model later this year, expected to cost under $28,000.

Built on a New Platform

Completely redesigned, the US-bound Leaf now shares its platform with the Nissan Ariya. The S+ trim features a 75kWh battery that delivers up to 303 miles of range, a huge jump from the 2025 version’s 212 miles.

Although the Leaf adopts a crossover-style body, it is slightly shorter than the hatchback it replaces. Nissan’s engineers, however, redesigned the interior to create more passenger space.

Supercharger Access with NACS

The new Leaf comes equipped with Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, giving drivers access to the Supercharger network. A fast-charge session from 10% to 80% takes about 35 minutes.

New Features for 2026

Highlights include:

• An electronically dimming panoramic roof (a first in the segment).

• A Google-powered infotainment system.

• Advanced cameras offering a 360-degree “Invisible Hood” view to simplify parking.

Nissan Needs a Breakthrough

The launch comes at a time when US EV sales are slowing. Market share dropped from 7.4% to 6.6% earlier this year, as government subsidies declined and industry funding faced pushback.

Nissan itself is under pressure, with falling share prices, ongoing financial losses, workforce reductions, and plant closures. The company is betting heavily on the new Leaf in the US and the upcoming all-electric Micra in Europe.

Aiming for the “$25K EV” Dream

With Tesla shelving its long-rumored $25,000 model, Nissan’s pricing strategy may put the Leaf in the sweet spot for budget-conscious EV buyers. It could be the closest the US market gets to a practical, affordable EV in the near future.