The LEAF is back and upgraded in nearly every way possible. For the 2026 model year, the new Nissan LEAF is all grown up and still one of the most affordable EVs, starting at under $30,000. However, lease prices are not so cheap.
2026 Nissan LEAF lease prices and offers
Since it first launched in 2010, the LEAF has notoriously been one of the most affordable electric vehicles in the US and pretty much every other market.
That was over a decade ago, and the electric hatch has quickly fallen out of favor for longer-range, more advanced options like the Tesla Model 3, Model Y, and Chevy Equinox EV.
For its third generation, Nissan gave the LEAF a drastic overhaul in hopes of sparking some life. The 2026 Nissan LEAF trades in the hatchback style for a more upright design, closer to a crossover SUV. It also offers 25% more driving range, up to 303 miles, faster charging, and new features compared to the outgoing model.
Despite the upgrades, the new 2026 model (check out our review of it) is even cheaper than the first 2011 Nissan LEAF, which started at $32,780.
Nissan claims that the new 2026 LEAF has “the lowest starting MSRP for any new EV currently on sale in the US,” priced from just $29,990.
Meanwhile, leasing one may not be the best idea. The 2026 Nissan LEAF SV+ is listed for lease starting at $499 per month. The offer is for a 36-month lease with $3,699 due at signing, resulting in an effective cost of $601 per month.
The SV+ trim is priced from $34,230 with 288 miles of range. Alternatively, Nissan is offering 4.9% APR financing for 60 months.
Unlike some other automakers, Nissan has not announced plans to extend EV lease offers following the September 30 federal tax credit deadline.
| 2026 Nissan LEAF trim | Starting Price | Driving Range |
| LEAF S+ | $29,990 | 303 miles |
| LEAF SV+ | $34,230 | 288 miles |
| LEAF Platinum+ | $38,990 | 259 miles |
GM, Stellantis, BMW, and Hyundai will continue offering the $7,500 incentive for EV leases until at least the end of October.
Can the LEAF compete with other low-cost EVs, like the Hyundai IONIQ 5, Chevy Equinox EV, or the new Tesla Model Y and Model 3? After Hyundai cut prices on the 2026 IONIQ 5 to under $35,000, Nissan may need to rethink its offers. The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is listed for lease starting at just $249 per month, or you can opt for 0% APR financing for up to 72 months.
Thinking about trying one out for yourself? You can use our links below to find EVs available in your area.
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