The 2026 Nissan LEAF Is More Affordable Than Ever to Buy — But Leasing Comes at a Premium
The Nissan LEAF returns for 2026 with a complete makeover and an aggressive price tag, reaffirming its position as one of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market. Starting at just $29,990, the new LEAF is priced lower than even the original 2011 model, marking a significant milestone in Nissan’s electric vehicle lineup.
Since its debut in 2010, the LEAF has been widely recognized as a budget-friendly entry point into the world of electric driving. However, over the past decade, the hatchback EV lost ground to newer competitors boasting longer ranges and advanced tech, such as Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y, as well as the Chevy Equinox EV.
For its third generation, Nissan has revamped the LEAF’s design, shifting away from the traditional hatchback format toward a more upright, crossover SUV silhouette. The 2026 LEAF now offers a 25% increase in driving range, with the top trim delivering up to 303 miles on a single charge. Faster charging capabilities and a refreshed suite of features aim to elevate the driving experience and broaden its appeal.
Despite these improvements, the starting price of the 2026 Nissan LEAF S+ is surprisingly affordable at $29,990—making it, according to Nissan, “the lowest starting MSRP for any new EV currently on sale in the US.”
However, potential buyers considering leasing might think twice. The 2026 LEAF SV+ trim, priced at $34,230, carries a lease price starting at $499 per month, with $3,699 due at signing. Over a 36-month lease, this translates to an effective monthly cost of about $601, a figure that stands out compared to competitors. Nissan is also offering 4.9% APR financing over 60 months for buyers interested in purchase options.
Unlike some other automakers, Nissan has not extended EV lease incentives beyond the September 30 deadline for the federal tax credit, which has further contributed to the relatively high lease costs.
| Trim | Starting Price | Driving Range (miles) |
|---|---|---|
| LEAF S+ | $29,990 | 303 |
| LEAF SV+ | $34,230 | 288 |
| LEAF Platinum+ | $38,990 | 259 |
In contrast, brands like GM, Stellantis, BMW, and Hyundai continue to offer a $7,500 federal tax credit for EV leases through at least the end of October. For example, the Hyundai IONIQ 5, one of Nissan’s key competitors in the affordable EV segment, has seen its lease prices cut dramatically, with offers starting at just $249 per month and financing rates at 0% APR for up to 72 months.
This leaves the question: Can the Nissan LEAF compete effectively against rivals like the Hyundai IONIQ 5, Chevy Equinox EV, and Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y? While its low entry price remains a major selling point for buyers looking to purchase, its less competitive leasing terms may push some customers toward other brands offering more attractive lease incentives.
As the EV market continues to evolve rapidly, Nissan may need to reconsider its leasing strategies to stay competitive, especially as other automakers aggressively price their vehicles to attract a broader audience.
