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• Accolade celebrates LEAF’s excellence in design, electric powertrain technology and everyday usability
• Awarded by an international jury and recognizes LEAF’s legacy as a global EV pioneer

YOKOHAMA, Japan — The all-new Nissan LEAF has been named the overall winner for 2026 by Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY) – the highest honor bestowed by the international jury comprised exclusively of women automotive journalists.

First launched in 2010 as the world’s first mass market electric vehicle, the LEAF has helped drive the shift to electric mobility for over 15 years. Now in its third generation, new LEAF builds on that legacy with a sleeker design, enhanced range and intuitive technology – qualities identified by this year’s WWCOTY jury. The LEAF rose to the top of a competitive field of 55 vehicles, underscoring its standout appeal among a wide range of global contenders.

WWCOTY evaluates vehicles based on what matters most to everyday drivers including safety, design, value, ease of use and environmental impact. Comprised of 86 leading women journalists across more than 50 countries, the jury praised the LEAF for its realistic approach to electric mobility, and balance of advanced electric performance and simple, enjoyable day to day driving.

“In our voting, we have focused on vehicles that stand out not only for their figures or technology, but for how effectively they respond to people’s real, everyday needs,” said Marta García, Executive President of WWCOTY. “The Nissan LEAF represents a mature and intelligent vision of electrification — one that makes electric mobility truly usable and accessible.”

“New LEAF being named overall winner by the Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year is a proud moment for everyone at Nissan,” said Ivan Espinosa, President & CEO, Nissan. “LEAF helped bring electric driving into the mainstream, and this new generation carries that mission forward. It’s designed to make going electric easier and more enjoyable for more people around the world.”

Earlier this year, the all-new LEAF was also named Best Compact Car by WWCOTY for its practical and accessible approach to electric mobility.

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About Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year

Founded in 2009 by New Zealand journalist Sandy Myhre, WWCOTY aims to amplify women’s voices in the automotive industry and highlight mobility for women as a key enabler of personal and professional opportunities worldwide. It is the only automotive award judged exclusively by women motoring journalists who represent voices across five continents.

About Nissan

For more information about Nissan’s products, services and commitment to sustainable mobility, visit nissan-global.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn and see all our latest videos on YouTube.To learn more about the all-new Nissan LEAF, visit https://www.nissan-global.com/EN/COMPANY/EVENTS/NISSAN_LEAF_2025/

 

Contacts:

nissan_japan_communications@mail.nissan.co.jp

Vanessa Levy
International Brand & Storytelling Strategy Director
E: vlevy@nissan-europe.com

Kayleigh Edwards
International Storytelling & Campaigns Strategy Manager
E: kayleigh.edwards@ntc-europe.co.uk