Nissan was one of the first automakers to offer a competitive and compelling electric vehicle for buyers. The brand has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to adapt to the market, and that remains true today with the third generation of the Leaf.
After evolving from a futuristic concept into a more functional and refined car, the Nissan Leaf now takes the form of a sport utility vehicle with a bold and futuristic design for its third generation. The segment certainly reaches a broader audience, but the Japanese automaker has decided to focus on the most popular trims. As a result, there will be no entry-level small-battery version in Canada this year.
The Right Decision
Unveiled earlier last year, the new Nissan Leaf immediately impressed customers with its styling, concept, and strong technical specifications. The Japanese automaker initially introduced the S+, SV+, and Platinum+ trims, mentioning that a base S version would join the lineup at a later date. However, we have just learned that this variant will not be offered in our market.
It would be easy to criticize Nissan for this move, but I am among those who believe it is an excellent decision on the automaker’s part. Ten years ago, price was a key factor in attracting buyers to an electric model. Today, that is no longer entirely the case. Buyers are increasingly focused on technology, but more importantly on the driving range offered by an electrified vehicle.
The Nissan Leaf S was expected to deliver average range figures, which is acceptable, but the reality is that it could have done better. The other versions of the 2026 Leaf SUV are equipped with a 75-kWh battery pack, allowing them to store enough energy to deliver an estimated driving range between 417 and 488 kilometres, depending on the selected trim — a competitive figure overall. Power comes from an electric motor producing 214 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque, which is noticeably more appealing than the 174 horsepower and 254 lb-ft offered with the Leaf S.
Despite the absence of the S version, the 2026 Nissan Leaf still ranks among the more affordable electric models on the market, with a starting price of $47,846 including freight and preparation fees. The SV+ and Platinum+ trims are priced at $50,846 and $55,646 respectively.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
