All-new Nissan Leaf breaks cover: SUV-style EV with big upgrades

KUALA LUMPUR: Launched in 2010, the Nissan Leaf is one of the first mass-market EVs in the automotive world. This pioneering EV has just received a generational upgrade, transforming the conventional hatchback into a stylish, high-riding crossover SUV.

2025 Nissan Leaf: what’s new?

New platform, improved range

The all-new Nissan Leaf underpins the brand’s modular CMF-EV platform, which debuted with the larger Ariya. The new platform offers streamlined packaging, efficient energy management, and enhanced driving performance. 

While it is confirmed that the new Leaf will come powered by a three-in-one electric drive unit, no information has been provided on output numbers and battery pack. Nissan mentioned that the EV would offer “significant range improvements over the previous generation.” 

The EV could borrow 63-kWh and 87-kWh battery packs from the Ariya, with the base-spec versions offering somewhere around 450 km of range, while long-range models could run for 600 km on a single charge.

Refreshed styling 

The reimagined Nissan Leaf looks inspired by the Chill-Out concept previewed in 2021. It features a sharp front-end design with a pointed nose, full-width lightbar, boomerang-shaped lights, and an illuminated Nissan badge.  

Adding to the sleek, aerodynamic profile are flush-fitting front door handles (integrated into the C-pillar) and a sloping roofline. The charging port is positioned on the front left wing of the car. As for the North American market, a NACS charging port will also be available for convenient charging at the Tesla Supercharger network.

For the first time, the EV gets 19-inch wheels featuring an intricate cross design and a panoramic glass roof.

Advanced cabin technology 

While no interior photos are yet revealed, the upgraded Leaf is expected to come with the brand’s new-gen cabin design, sharing lots of elements with its larger brother.

As per market reports, the EV may get advanced in-car systems enabled by the Car and Connected Service (CCS) platform. With a dual-screen layout, it is likely to feature a Google-based infotainment unit and advanced driver assistance systems.

More details on the third-gen Nissan Leaf will be shared mid-year. 

Along with the next-gen Leaf, Nissan also unveiled several refreshed models and next-gen technologies set to debut over the next two years. 

Ivan Espinosa, Nissan’s chief planning officer, said, "Over the next two years, we are excited to roll out an impressive lineup that will redefine the road! This includes the reimagined Nissan LEAF and a daring new Micra EV. But that's not all – we're refreshing our range of SUVs to elevate the driving experience, and our next-generation e-POWER promises new levels of refinement and efficiency. We are committed to investing in products that embody the very best of Nissan. To our passionate fans and loyal owners around the world, I can assure you, this is just the beginning of an exciting journey ahead." 

Also read: Denza N9 debuts in China - Drone launchpad, triple motors, crab walk & more