New Nissan Leaf seen for the first time

Spotted in San Francisco is one of the very first prototypes of the new Nissan Leaf. Expected to have a new design and a strong link to the Ariya

Photo by: Nissan

By: Alberto Carmone

Jan 16, 2025 at 3:33am ET

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After months of anticipation, we finally have the first spy photo of the new Nissan Leaf. Expected in mid-2025, the third generation of the Japanese electric compact car was first seen during tests in San Francisco.

The car is completely camouflaged and hidden by thick black sheets, but we can already catch a glimpse of the body shape and the rear lights. According to the American media, it is most likely the Leaf itself.

Evolution of the species

According to what we have gathered over the past few months, the new Nissan Leaf is preparing to evolve into something completely new. Abandoning its compact hatchback form, the Japanese electric car will become a pure crossover, with a design inspired by the Chill Out concept presented in 2021.

In particular, the production model could come very close to the render we have created. The design should be distinguished by an arched roof and minimalist flanks, with a rear dominated by a glossy black panel and pixel-style LED lights.

New Nissan Leaf (2025) rendered by Motor1.com

As for the interior, it is plausible that the instrumentation will take its cue from the Ariya, albeit with some changes in the controls and graphics to suit this specific model.

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At the moment, there is no official information on the motors and batteries of the next Leaf. However, it is likely that Nissan will use the CMF-EV platform, the same one used for the Ariya. This platform supports powertrains with 66 and 91 kWh batteries and electric motors with power outputs of up to 394 PS.

Nissan Chill-Out concept

The Japanese manufacturer is also working on the development of solid-state batteries, although these will not reach the market until 2028. Despite this, it is to be expected that the future Leaf will offer a longer range than the current model, with mileage up to 186 miles.

The price of the next-generation Leaf could increase significantly compared to the current price list, with an estimated base price of between £31,000-£33,000. Production will begin in March 2025 at the Sunderland plant in the UK.