Nissan Leaf S with reduced battery capacity won't launch in U.S. for 2026
nissan-global.com
Nissan confirms the base Leaf S variant with 52 kWh battery won't be available in the U.S. for 2026, affecting affordability amid competition from Chevrolet Bolt and Kia EV3.
Nissan has confirmed that the base Leaf S version with a reduced battery capacity will not be available in the U.S. for the 2026 model year. This variant was expected to feature a 52 kWh battery and a 174 horsepower electric motor, potentially making it the most affordable option in the lineup.
Currently, the Nissan Leaf starts at $29,990, offering a range of up to 303 miles (approximately 488 km) in this configuration. A more affordable version could have undercut the anticipated price of the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt, which is expected to start at $28,995.
The company explained that the decision was driven by the need to align with market trends and demand. Specific timelines for a potential Leaf S launch were not provided. While the model has not been canceled, its future remains uncertain.
With the Ariya crossover skipping the 2026 model year in the U.S., the Leaf remains Nissan's sole electric vehicle in this market. Competition in the urban EV segment is intensifying, thanks to the refreshed Bolt and the upcoming Kia EV3.
In the fourth quarter of 2025, sales of the new Nissan Leaf dropped by 86% compared to the same period in 2024. Contributing factors include the impact of tax incentives and production constraints.
