The all-new Nissan LEAF, a third-generation electric vehicle built in Sunderland, has been named the 2026 Auto Express Car of the Year, fending off competition from premium brands such as BMW, Audi, and Land Rover. The £28,849 electric car also won Small Company Car of the Year and Affordable Electric Car of the Year at the awards ceremony.
Judges Praise Unbeatable Combination
Auto Express deputy editor Richard Ingram declared the LEAF a “homegrown triumph,” noting that rivals cannot match its mix of long range, keen pricing, and a powertrain that blends performance and efficiency. He added: “Add in a premium ride quality, tight handling plus an interior that offers impressive space wrapped in a dynamic design, and its victory is richly deserved. Engineered and manufactured in Britain, it’s a homegrown triumph to boot.”
Specifications and Pricing
The new LEAF boasts a range of up to 386 miles and is available in four grades. Prices start at £28,849 for the 52kWh battery version and £32,249 for the 75kWh battery option. The car features a futuristic front grille, spacious interior, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology.
Other Award Winners
BMW secured several awards: the iX3 won Mid-size Premium SUV of the Year and Premium Electric Car of the Year, while the 2 Series took Coupé of the Year. Audi’s A5 was voted Premium Hybrid Car of the Year, the Q3 won Small Premium SUV of the Year, and the A6 e-tron was named Large Company Car of the Year. Range Rover claimed Large Premium SUV of the Year but did not win the overall title.
Nissan’s Response
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.”
