The Nissan Leaf entered the electric vehicle well received almost two decades ago, and I have seen it consistently improve during its tenure. But the 2026 version? Whoa! I reviewed the Platinum+ FWD, and it was a stunner when it came to design, spacious interior, and upgrades throughout to reflect the premium trim. Nissan does a successful job of providing us with an energy saving, tech-forward EV vehicle thriving on practicality without looking it like it.
Presented in a premium two-tone gray with a contrasting black roof, this was a highly recommended color combination exuding a sophisticated, modern look. The Leaf’s exterior frame flaunts Nissan’s mission to be the most aerodynamic version of the car’s legacy, including a curvaceous frame, a sloping rear window crowned with a spoiler, and slanting LED lighting complete with signature daytime running lights and 3D holographic taillights. The 19-inch wheels with a design customized for the Platinum + version, black grille, roof rails, and illuminated Nissan badge provided extra flex. The motorized front door handles that protruded upon arrival added even more elegance.
Beneath the floor, the 2026 Leaf is powered by a 214-horsepower electric motor delivering 261 lb.-ft of torque. This combo made driving through Atlanta smooth, yet responsive for whatever the streets challenged me with. Highway merging was also effortless, and the new 75 kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pushes the Leaf up to 259 miles of range, so long trips become a lot more worry free. Addressing the actual charging capabilities, the Leaf presents multiple options. flexible than ever. With both a NACS DC fast charging option for all of those Tesla stations and a J1772 AC port, this vehicle can get to 100 percent in about a half an hour. Addressing the aforementioned practicality, Nissan also adds Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capabilities, where you can power small appliances, devices, or even camping gear straight from the car.
Inside, the Leaf steps up its game with a more upscale feel compared to previous generations. Everything from the dual 14.3-inch displays lighting up the dash, to the Google Built-in with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto combo stays consistent with today’s tech demands. The Bose Personal Plus audio system was one of my favorite features, utilizing 10 speakers including placement directly in the front headrests for premium sound. The ambient multicolor lighting and a panoramic roof elevate complete the cabin’s impressive upgrades.
Want more? How about heated front and rear seats; a heated steering wheel; power driver seat with memory; and a motion-activated liftgate? The “Divide-N-Hide” cargo system keeps owners organized, 120V outlets bring more versatility for everyone, and the car unlocks when leaving which kept me even more worry free.
Safety gets some love as always with this automaker, thanks to the Nissan Safety Shield 360, which includes everything from automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, to blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, and the HD Intelligent around view monitor. With an MSRP starting around $39K and an estimated 103 MPGe combined, the 2026 Nissan Leaf Platinum+ offers legitimate value paired with a sporty look and an overall goal to provide the best efficiency.
Ultimately, this is one of the most bang-for-your-buck premium EVs on the market.
Price: MSRP $38,990 and $42,365 with as reviewed fully equipped, adding two-tone paint, cargo package, battery heater, and destination charges.
For more information, visit Nissanusa.com