
The all-new, third-generation Nissan LEAF has kicked off 2026 in style, being named ‘Car to Watch’ by the respected UK automotive publication Company Car and Van. Produced at Nissan’s Sunderland plant, the LEAF continues to cement its place at the forefront of electric vehicle innovation.
This latest award adds to a growing list of accolades for the new LEAF, including The Sun’s Car of the Year, even before the first UK customer has taken delivery.
Commenting on the honour, Andrew Walker, Editor of Company Car and Van, said:
*“We’re delighted to include the all-electric Nissan LEAF in our annual list of award winners. The car that started it all has a new lease of life for 2026.
“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 has a strong track record at Company Car and Van’s annual awards, with previous trophies for models such as the Qashqai, ARIYA, and the Townstar – the manufacturer’s compact LCV available with petrol or fully electric powertrains.
The new LEAF continues to lead Nissan’s electrification strategy. Designed to overcome barriers to EV adoption, it offers a maximum range of up to 386 miles on a single charge, enhanced charging speeds of up to 260 miles in 30 minutes, and a suite of driver-focused technologies that make EV ownership easier and more rewarding.
Since its launch in 2010, the LEAF has sold nearly 700,000 units worldwide, earning its place as the world’s first mass-market electric vehicle. The third-generation model ushers in a new chapter, redesigned and re-engineered to meet the needs of modern EV customers while remaining true to its pioneering roots.
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. We couldn’t agree more with their assessment!
“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.”*
At Western & Barnetts Nissan, we’re excited to showcase the all-new LEAF and its innovative features, inviting customers to experience why it has earned the title of Car to Watch for 2026.