New Zealand’s most popular EV is becoming an SUV

Kiwis are in for a big change when it comes to their favourite EV, the Nissan Leaf, for the third-generation model will be an SUV. It is due for release next year.

Almost 20,000 Leafs have landed on our road since the model was released in 2010, making it the most registered electric car in New Zealand.

However, its reign has come under fire from new entrants like the BYD Atto 3 and Tesla Model Y SUVs, both of which have topped new electric car registrations throughout the past year or so.

It’s a similar story in Europe where the Leaf is made, which is why Nissan has decided to ditch the model’s hatchback formula and allow it to compete on a more even footing with the new wave of electric SUVs.

The Japanese carmaker says that it’ll closely resemble the Chill-Out Concept that was revealed in 2021.

It’ll be a big change from the current model, with its sharp edges and lines being thrown out for a smooth and flowing appearance. The Chill-Out will also lend its LED-lit front and rear ends, complete with illuminated Nissan badging and a dome-shaped roof.

Expect a much better aero CD figure, optimising the range of its yet-to-be-announced electric drivetrain.

The next-generation Leaf will be joined by a fully electric Qashqai and Juke, which will take inspiration from Nissan’s edgy and futuristic Hyper Urban and Hyper Punk concepts that were revealed at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show.