Nissan LEAF Named World’s Best Compact Car by Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year Jury

Front left 3/4 view of a 2026 Nissan LEAF driving along a road with an award graphic in the upper left of the image.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nissan is proud to announce that the all-new Nissan LEAF has been awarded the prestigious title of World's Best Compact Car by the Women's Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY) jury – the only automotive awards panel in the world comprised exclusively of women motoring journalists.

The all-new LEAF is the third generation of the pioneering mass-market electric vehicle and the accolade recognizes its sleek design, impressive powertrain performance and intuitive technology, as well its historic role in the consumer shift to electric vehicles.

A Global Recognition for Innovation and Accessibility

The WWCOTY award celebrates vehicles that excel in areas most relevant to everyday drivers: safety, quality, price, design, ease of driving, benefits and environmental footprint. The jury, made up of 75 automotive journalists from 52 countries, does not select a "woman's car" – because cars are not gender-specific – but rather evaluates vehicles based on universal criteria that matter to all motorists.

Founded in 2009 by New Zealand journalist Sandy Myhre, WWCOTY aims to amplify women's voices in the automotive industry and highlight mobility as a key enabler of personal and professional opportunities worldwide.

About the All-New Nissan LEAF

The all-new Nissan LEAF combines sleek aerodynamic design, an advanced electric powertrain with extended range and intuitive technology for a connected, confident driving experience.

The all-new 2026 LEAF features an EPA-estimated range of up to 303 miles1 per charge, making it ideal for commuting and road trips. Built-in North American Charging Standard (NACS) compatibility with Plug & Charge2 provides seamless access to more than 25,000 Tesla Superchargers3, ensuring fast and convenient public charging.

For seamless day-to-day interaction with the new LEAF, it is equipped with the latest Google tech. Called Google built-in3, the suite of services includes Google Maps, the Play Store, from where apps can be downloaded directly into the car and also Google Assistant, which allows users to control navigation, climate and media hands-free, or sync personal apps and services.

“This recognition from WWCOTY reinforces our commitment to making EVs accessible and desirable for all drivers,” said Nissan President and CEO Ivan Espinosa. “The original LEAF helped lay the foundation for global EV adoption. With its advanced features and technologies, this new generation makes every day driving easier, more enjoyable and invites customers to embrace life with EVs.”

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About Women's Worldwide Car of the Year

WWCOTY is the only automotive award judged exclusively by women journalists, representing voices from every continent. Beyond honoring the best cars of the year, its mission is to promote diversity and inclusion in the automotive world.

About Nissan

Nissan is a global leader in electric mobility, committed to shaping a sustainable future through innovation and electrification. The all-new LEAF is a cornerstone of Nissan's EV strategy, delivering advanced technology and zero-emission performance for a new generation of drivers.

For more information about our products, services and commitment to sustainable mobility, visit nissanusa.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter) and LinkedIn and see all our latest videos on YouTube.

  1. EPA-estimated range up to 303 miles for combined city/highway driving. 2026 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates: 131 City, 111 Highway. Based on EPA formula of 33.7 kW/hour equal to one gallon of gasoline energy, EPA rated LEAF 75kWh S+ equivalent to 131 MPGe measured as gasoline fuel efficiency in city driving, and 111 MPGe in highway driving. Actual mileage will vary with trim levels, options, and driving conditions. See Customer Disclosure Form for details. Use for comparison only.
  2. Public charging networks are provided by independent companies and are subject to their own respective policies, terms, and/or conditions, and are not within Nissan's control. Should such independent companies terminate or restrict service or features, service or features may be suspended or terminated without notice or with no liability to Nissan or its partners or agents. Nissan is not responsible for associated costs (including additional equipment or equipment replacements/upgrades, if available) or other third-party changes that may be required for connectivity with a charger station. Availability of charging stations not guaranteed. Please see your Owner Manual for important operating and safety instructions.
  3. Feature availability varies by vehicle model year, model, trim level, packaging and options. Consumer activation of NissanConnect Services SELECT package ("Package") required. Package trial period included with eligible new vehicle purchase or lease. Trial period may be subject to change or termination at any time and without notice. After trial period ends, monthly subscription fee required. Driving is serious business and requires your full attention. Only use features when safe and legal to do so. Never program while driving. GPS mapping may not be detailed in all areas or reflect current road status. Connectivity service required. App subscriptions may be required. Data rates may apply. Subject to third-party service availability. Should such service providers terminate or restrict service or features, service or features may be suspended or terminated without notice or with no liability to NISSAN or its partners or agents. Google, Google Play and Google Maps are trademarks of Google LLC. For more information, see www.nissanusa.com/connect/legal.
Issued by Nissan