Nissan has kicked off 2026 on a high note, with the all-new, third-generation LEAF earning the prestigious ‘Car to Watch’ title from UK automotive magazine and website, Company Car and Van.
The award adds to an already impressive collection of accolades for the redesigned LEAF, which includes The Sun newspaper’s Car of the Year, even before the first UK customer has taken delivery.
Andrew Walker, Editor of Company Car and Van, praised the new LEAF, saying: “The British-built LEAF arrives to stiff competition and whilst it may not rewrite the rulebook as it once did, a combination of generous pricing, an excellent maximum range, clever tech and decent handling make it our Car to Watch for 2026.”
Nissan’s success at Company Car and Van’s awards is well-established, with models such as the Qashqai, ARIYA, and Townstar compact LCV previously earning top honours. The latest LEAF continues this winning streak, reinforcing Nissan’s position as a leader in the EV market.
The third-generation LEAF represents a significant step forward in Nissan’s electrification strategy. Its maximum range has been substantially increased to 386 miles on a single charge, while enhanced charging capabilities allow up to 260 miles of range in just 30 minutes. Alongside this, a suite of advanced technologies ensures a more convenient and rewarding EV ownership experience.
Since its global debut in 2010, LEAF has sold nearly 700,000 units, earning its place in history as the world’s first mass-market electric vehicle. With this latest iteration, Nissan combines modern design, advanced engineering, and practical features to meet the needs of today’s EV drivers, while staying true to the pioneering spirit that made LEAF a household name.
James Taylor, managing director of Nissan GB, said: “A big thanks to the team at Company Car & Van for recognizing the talents of our fantastic British-built LEAF electric car and awarding it their Car to Watch in 2026. Together with our other fully electric models – including the all-new Micra and Ariya, plus the Townstar and Interstar vans – Nissan has a rapidly expanding electric portfolio with real appeal to company car fleets, and we look forward to welcoming new customers to our brand.”
The new LEAF’s award cements its position as a standout choice for 2026, offering range, technology, and innovation for drivers ready to embrace the electric future.
