Nissan has decided not to introduce a lower-cost entry-level version of its redesigned LEAF electric vehicle for the 2026 model year in the United States, abandoning plans for a smaller-battery trim intended to reduce the starting price.
The updated LEAF, featuring a taller crossover-like design, extended driving range and a built-in North American Charging Standard (NACS) port for access to Tesla Superchargers, will instead launch with a single battery configuration.
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The 2026 LEAF S+ is priced from $29,990 before destination charges, or about $31,485 including fees, positioning it among the most affordable electric vehicles in the U.S. market alongside the upcoming Chevrolet Bolt, which starts at roughly $28,995 including destination.
Nissan had previously indicated that a cheaper S trim would follow, equipped with a smaller 52 kWh battery and a less powerful motor. However, a company spokesperson told Car and Driver that “we have decided not to introduce the smaller-battery variant of the 2026 Nissan LEAF in the US this model year.”
The spokesperson added that Nissan will “continue to assess future battery configurations based on customer demand and segment needs,” leaving open the possibility of a lower-priced variant in a later model year.
See also: 2026 Nissan LEAF Named WWCOTY Best Compact Car
All 2026 LEAF versions will instead use a 75 kWh battery pack, delivering an estimated driving range of between 259 miles and 303 miles depending on configuration. The cancelled entry-level model would likely have offered substantially less range along with a reduced-output motor, expected to produce about 174 horsepower compared with 214 horsepower in current versions.
The decision comes as automakers balance affordability with consumer expectations for range and performance, factors that can limit the appeal of lower-cost electric models with smaller batteries.
