The newest generation of the Nissan Leaf has officially gone on sale in Japan, following its earlier debut in North America. This marks the return of Nissan’s popular all-electric model to its home market, where it continues to serve as a key representative of the brand’s EV expertise. While the global design language of the Leaf remains largely intact, the Japanese version introduces several local-market distinctions. Among these is a special Autech edition, which adds a touch of sportiness and premium styling without straying too far from the practical focus and price range that define the model’s appeal.
Measuring 4,360 mm in length, the Japan-spec Leaf is slightly shorter than the version sold in the United States by 44 mm. Its design closely mirrors the European variant, lacking amber turn indicators but retaining the same sleek fastback profile. The upper-tier trim benefits from distinctive “Z-inspired” LED taillights, which give the car a sharper, more dynamic look at the rear. Nissan’s Autech division has also introduced a series of exclusive enhancements for customers seeking a sportier appearance. These include a redesigned bodykit featuring an aluminum-accented front splitter, color-coordinated side inserts, black mirror caps, and a reworked rear diffuser. The package is completed by blue daytime running lights, Autech badging, and striking 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Buyers can select from several color combinations, such as Deep Ocean Blue with a Super Black roof, Prism White with Super Black, or a full Midnight Black finish.
Inside the cabin, the Japanese Leaf showcases a dual 12.3-inch display setup, differing from the larger 14.3-inch screens available in other regions. However, it compensates with high-end features such as an optional dimming panoramic glass roof, a 10-speaker Bose Plus audio system, and Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) functionality that allows the car to supply power to a house during outages. The Autech interior stands out for its darker, more luxurious aesthetic. It features premium black upholstery accented by blue stitching, embroidered Autech logos, custom seat patterns, and unique seatbelts and floor mats. Despite the absence of the more expansive digital cockpit, the equipment list remains impressive, with features like heated rear seats ensuring comfort in colder climates.
Under the hood, the Japanese-market Leaf comes in a single B7 configuration available in X and G trims. It uses a front-mounted electric motor that produces 215 horsepower and 355 Nm of torque. The Autech version shares this powertrain, meaning its upgrades are purely cosmetic. A large 78 kWh battery provides a remarkable 702 km of range under Japan’s WLTC cycle, though this figure tends to be higher than European and American test standards, which rate it at 604 km and 488 km respectively. A more affordable B5 model, equipped with a smaller battery and reduced power output, is planned for release later, along with a corresponding Autech variant for those who prefer the sportier look without the higher specifications.
Pricing for the Japanese lineup begins at roughly $34,000 for the B7 X trim and rises to around $39,300 for the higher-end B7 G. The Autech edition starts at approximately $42,700, with optional extras available at additional cost. Deliveries across Japan are scheduled to start in early 2026. By comparison, the U.S. market offers a more budget-friendly pricing range, beginning at $25,360 for the entry-level S trim and reaching $38,990 for the fully equipped Platinum+ version.