Nissan's Priciest Leaf Yet Lacks a Crucial Feature | Carscoops

      The new Nissan Leaf is now available in the Japanese market, featuring minor differences and a sporty, upscale Autech trim.

      This variant includes a sportier bodykit, distinctive 19-inch wheels, and a more luxurious interior, although it does not offer performance or chassis enhancements compared to the standard electric vehicle.

      The latest iteration of the Nissan Leaf has officially launched in Japan, following its initial introduction in North America earlier this year.

      While the all-electric fastback crossover maintains much of its global identity, it also presents some unique features for the domestic market, including the Autech version, which emphasizes a sportier, premium style within the practical and budget-friendly limits of its category.

      Measuring 4,360 mm (171.7 inches) in length, the Japanese Leaf is 44 mm (1.7 inches) shorter than the U.S. model. Similar to its European counterpart, it lacks amber indicators, while the overall design remains unchanged. The top-tier model is distinguished by Z-inspired LED taillights that enhance the rear appearance.

      Inside, the Japanese Leaf features dual 12.3-inch displays, although it does not include the larger 14.3-inch screens available in other markets. It compensates for the smaller screen size with a wealth of equipment, such as an optional dimming panoramic glass roof, a 10-speaker Bose Plus Sound System, and Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) capability.

      Autech Enhancements

      Nissan’s Autech division has enhanced the Leaf with a sportier aesthetic. The tailored bodykit includes a prominent front splitter with aluminum highlights, side inserts, mirror caps, and rear skirt elements. Additional design features consist of a black grille, blue daytime running lights, distinctive bumper accents, and Autech branding.

      The Leaf Autech also comes with exclusive 19-inch aluminum wheels and can be chosen in Deep Ocean Blue with a Super Black roof. Other color options include Prism White with Super Black or a complete Midnight Black finish.

      As is typical with Autech models, the dark-themed interior is more upscale compared to the standard Leaf. It features black upholstery with blue stitching and piping, along with a unique pattern and Autech embroidery on the seats, exclusive seatbelts, and branded floor mats.

      Although it lacks the larger dual-display cockpit found in other regions, it still offers generous features, including heated rear seats for cold weather.

      Specifications and Range

      At launch, the Japanese Leaf is offered solely in B7 configuration, available in two trims: X and G. It is powered by a single electric motor generating 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS) and 355 Nm (261.8 lb-ft) of torque directed to the front wheels. The Autech variant shares this configuration, so there are no additional performance or chassis modifications beyond its more aggressive styling.

      The 78 kWh battery offers an impressive range of 702 km (436 miles) under the WLTC cycle, which tends to be more optimistic compared to Europe’s WLTP (604 km / 375 miles) and America’s EPA estimate (488 km / 303 miles).

      A lower-tier B5 model with a smaller battery and reduced power will be added to the lineup later, along with a corresponding Autech version for those who desire the aesthetic without the higher specifications.

      Pricing

      In Japan, the Leaf’s starting price is ¥5,188,700 (approximately $34,000) for the B7 X trim, increasing to ¥5,999,400 ($39,300) for the top-tier B7 G. The Autech trim has a higher starting price of ¥6,513,100 ($42,700), with optional features raising the total price further. Deliveries throughout Japan are expected to commence in early 2026.

      In contrast, pricing in the United States is more affordable, with the entry-level S model starting at $25,360 and the Platinum+ reaching $38,990.