2026 Nissan Leaf

Based on what we know as of this writing, which is quite a bit, the new Leaf SUV — a hatchback no more — should be a winner if Nissan can keep the price down. That's the big question, as larger and more capable rivals lurk in the $45,000 range, including the Tesla Model Y Long Range RWD and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 Long Range RWD.

But if the new Leaf starts well under $40,000 with the upsized 75-kWh battery, that'll give a lot of EV shoppers something to chew on. The cheapest trim that comes with the 75-kWh battery, the S+, also gets the range-topping 303-mile range estimate, so if that variant checks in around $38,000 or so, Nissan could lure a lot of defectors from the Model Y/Ioniq 5 price bracket. Of course, Nissan's own electric Ariya SUV would also be in the Leaf's crosshairs.

As for the entry-level Leaf S with its smaller 52-kWh battery, we're inclined to say "Don't bother." You'll get 200 miles per full charge if you're lucky, and the electric motor operates at a 40-hp deficit relative to the 214-hp unit in the 75-kWh models (all Leafs remain front-wheel drive — there is no dual-motor Leaf). If you're just looking for a grocery-getter that will stay within city limits, maybe it could make some sense, but only at a very low price.

Whichever Leaf you choose, you'll be accepting subpar charging speeds as part of the deal. The onboard charger operates at just 7.2 kW in an age when 11 kW is the norm, so if you're wondering how long it'll take to charge up at home, the answer is about 50 percent longer than a typical EV today, battery size being equal. How about DC fast charging on the road? You're limited to 150 kW with the 75-kWh battery, while the smaller battery drops to around 100 kW. Those numbers are very much yesterday's news, so just know that if charge speed matters to you, the new Leaf won't hit the spot.

In terms of direct rivals, the Leaf SUV's subcompact dimensions (remarkably, it's three inches shorter than the Leaf hatchback) pit it squarely against the Hyundai Kona Electric and its Kia Niro EV cousin. The Nissan looks to have an edge on paper, as its 150-kW max charge rate actually stands out in this crowd, as does its 303-mile range ceiling. But again, much will depend on how low Nissan can go on price, because the larger and more capable models mentioned above are readily available in the $40,000s.