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The All-New Nissan LEAF has achieved one of the automotive industry's highest honours after being crowned 2026 Auto Express Car of the Year, further strengthening Nissan's reputation as one of the pioneers of electric mobility.
In an outstanding result at the prestigious Auto Express New Car Awards 2026, the third-generation Nissan LEAF secured three major awards, recognising its combination of long driving range, cutting-edge technology, outstanding value and impressive everyday usability.
For customers considering the switch to electric, this latest recognition confirms that the All-New Nissan LEAF continues to set the benchmark for affordable, practical and technologically advanced electric vehicles.
The All-New Nissan LEAF collected three of the evening's biggest awards:
The expert judging panel praised the LEAF's impressive up to 386-mile WLTP driving range, refined driving experience, premium comfort and exceptional value, making it one of the most complete electric vehicles currently available in the UK.
Winning the overall Car of the Year award is particularly significant, with the LEAF chosen ahead of both electric and petrol or diesel competitors across every vehicle category.
For almost four decades, Auto Express has been one of Britain's most respected automotive publications, with its annual New Car Awards recognising the very best new vehicles available to UK motorists.
The latest success continues Nissan's impressive history at the awards, following previous honours including:
The latest award further reinforces Nissan's position as one of the UK's leading electric vehicle manufacturers.
Richard Ingram, Deputy Editor of Auto Express said:
"Against every yardstick, Nissan’s LEAF is an outstanding Car of the Year. Rivals can’t beat its mix of long range and keen pricing and a powertrain that blends performance and efficiency like few others.
“Add in a premium ride quality, tight handling and an interior that offers impressive space and packaging wrapped in a dynamic design its victory is richly deserved. Engineered and manufactured in Britain, it’s a homegrown triumph to boot.”
James Taylor, Managing Director of Nissan Motor GB said:
“We’re over the moon that All-New, British-built LEAF has been recognised with not just one, but three awards from Auto Express. A big thanks to the team for recognising the hard work that’s gone into making this third-generation model the best yet!
“To see LEAF recognised as Auto Express Car of the Year is something all of us at Nissan can be incredibly proud of – not least the incredible team at our Sunderland plant, which has now built three generations of award-winning LEAFs.
“Winning Small Company Car of the Year is also great recognition of LEAF’s appeal for fleet and business customers, and scooping Affordable Electric Car of the Year only goes to show the incredible value proposition that LEAF represents.”
Building on more than 15 years of Nissan electric vehicle innovation, the third-generation LEAF has been completely redesigned to meet the needs of modern drivers.
Highlights include:
Whether you're commuting, travelling for business or enjoying family adventures, the All-New LEAF has been developed to deliver confidence, comfort and efficiency every day.
The Auto Express judging panel also recognised the LEAF's outstanding value for money.
Available in Engage, Engage+, Advance and Evolve grades, the All-New Nissan LEAF offers customers a broad choice of specifications to suit different lifestyles and budgets.
Current recommended on-the-road pricing starts from:
For company car drivers and business users, the LEAF also combines low running costs, zero tailpipe emissions and advanced technology, making it an attractive choice for today's fleet market.
If you're thinking about making the move to electric, there has never been a better time to experience the 2026 Auto Express Car of the Year.
Visit your nearest Western & Barnetts Nissan retailer to explore the All-New Nissan LEAF, discover its latest connected technologies, compare battery options and book your test drive with our expert team.
We'll be happy to answer your questions about charging, electric vehicle ownership, available offers and choosing the LEAF model that's right for you.
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