Nissan Leaf gets a complete makeover: Japan's best-selling electric SUV becomes a crossover SUV with a range of up to 600 kilometers.

Nissan has just unveiled the next generation of its compact electric car, the Leaf, which now features an SUV-like design with features inherited from its bigger brother, the Ariya . Developed on the same platform as the Renault Scenic and Megane , it will be available with a 214 hp engine and two battery options, one of 52 kWh and the other of 75 kWh. While the former offers a maximum range of 436 kilometers, the larger capacity allows for up to 604 km without needing to stop to recharge.

According to the brand, the car can be plugged into a fast charging station with up to 150 kW, allowing it to recover up to 417 km in just half an hour. The integrated Google Maps system helps plan trips by automatically identifying the most convenient charging stops along the way. Furthermore, the new Leaf is equipped with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, which allows it to power external devices such as portable lights or electric stoves.

All versions feature wheels with an optimized design to offer improved aerodynamic performance and optimize efficiency. There are various options with 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels. Thus, the car can travel at 130 km/h (81 mph) and offers a range of over 330 kilometers (200 miles).

The Leaf retains the e-Pedal, which allows acceleration and deceleration using a single pedal, and is equipped with a regenerative braking system that can be adjusted either manually using the steering wheel paddles or automatically using Intelligent Distance Control, which adapts regeneration based on traffic conditions.

In terms of driving aids, this new generation model can be equipped with ProPILOT Assist with Navi-link, which adapts to curves and speed limit changes for effortless highway driving. The 8-point 3D Surround View Monitor and Real-Time Road Display help manage even the most complicated maneuvers. Also available are the Invisible Bonnet function and 270° Forward View to see beyond parked cars, buildings, or other obstacles.

Despite its compact exterior size, this Leaf offers a fairly spacious interior. The trunk has a cargo capacity of 437 liters, which can be expanded by folding down the rear seatback. An opaque glass roof is optionally available in white. This is not unheard of, as it is also available on the French brand's Scenic and Rafale models.

As for the exterior design, it stands out for its complete renewal compared to its predecessor. The front end maintains the brand's characteristic V-shaped design, but is more open. A black strip connects the front light clusters. At the rear, the taillights' light signature takes the form of the Japanese numerals 2 and 3 (Ni and San). These headlights are integrated into a black methacrylate frame that also houses the brand name on the spoiler. On the side, the rear door handles are prominently integrated into the door frame, a solution already used on the Nissan Juke.

The new Leaf is available in seven exterior color options, including the exclusive Luminous Teal, while the interior trim comes in white or black with purple accents. The brand will accept orders starting this fall and make the first deliveries in spring of next year.

Since its debut in 2010, the brand has sold nearly 700,000 units of this model worldwide, making it one of the first electric vehicles for the mainstream market.