Overview
- The company confirmed the smaller‑battery Leaf S will not be introduced for the 2026 model year in the U.S. and Canada, making the S+ at $29,990 the entry trim.
- Nissan says it is focusing resources where they create the most value and will continue to assess future battery configurations based on demand.
- The deferred base model was expected to use a 52 kWh pack and a 174‑horsepower motor, trading lower range and performance for a lower price point around $25,360.
- All 2026 Leaf trims now use a 75 kWh battery with claimed ranges of roughly 259 to 303 miles and include NACS fast‑charging capability.
- Reporters point to import tariffs and shifting incentives as likely pressures on the low‑cost trim’s viability, and Nissan has already dropped the Ariya from its 2026 U.S. lineup.