The all-electric, third-generation LEAF – which has now entered production at Nissan’s Sunderland plant – has been named ‘Car to Watch’ by Company Car and Van.

It’s the latest in a series of accolades new LEAF has won – before the first model has even been handed over to a UK customer!

In October last year, LEAF was declared The Sun newspaper’s Car of the Year and a little later, it picked up three trophies in the US Buzz Awards, being named Car of the Year, Best EV and Best Budget Vehicle.

In bestowing LEAF with its latest honour, the Editor of Company Car and Van, Andrew Walker, 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 enjoyed a huge amount of success at Company Car and Van’s annual awards over the years, with its Qashqai and ARIYA models picking up trophies on previous occasions. Townstar – the manufacturer’s compact LCV, available with a petrol or fully electric powertrain – is a former winner too.

This third generation of the pioneering LEAF continues to lead the charge in Nissan’s electrification strategy.

Engineered to tackle barriers to EV adoption, the car has a substantially increased maximum range of up to 386 miles on a single charge. It also offers enhanced charging speeds (up to 260 miles of range in 30 minutes) and a suite of technologies that make driving easier and EV ownership more rewarding.

Place in history

Since its debut in 2010, LEAF has sold close to 700,000 units worldwide, earning its place in history as the world’s first mass-market electric vehicle.

And now, Nissan is ushering in a new chapter for the nameplate, re-designed and re-engineered to meet the needs of modern EV customers, while remaining true to its innovative roots.

A Nissan spokesperson said: ‘‘What a way to start 2026! We couldn’t be more delighted by this recognition from Company Car and Van. The All-New LEAF is smart, sleek, stylish and ready for the next generation of EV drivers. With a top range of 386 miles and connected technologies, it delivers the convenience and excitement our customers demand.

‘‘We agree with the team at Company Car and Van – it certainly will be a car to watch as we move through 2026 and beyond. Of course, we will be keeping a keen eye on its progress ourselves!’’