The Nissan Leaf hatchback may no longer be in production for Australia, but the pioneering electric vehicle (EV) nameplate is expected to be resurrected on an SUV already previewed by a concept car. Our spy photographers have captured the next Leaf being tested in Europe, ahead of it entering production at Nissan’s UK factory in 2025. Despite being under camouflage, we can see its shape has changed dramatically from that of its hatchback predecessors, with a raised ride height and sloping coupe-like roofline – akin to the BMW iX2 .
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Though it appears the production car will be toned down, there are clear links to the Chill-Out concept revealed in 2021, such as the unique design of its wheels, the rounded-off front end, and concave rear-end treatment. It appears the rear doors are also opened via a handle near the C-pillar, rather than on the actual door skin. As previously reported, the production EV will be based on the CMF-EV platform which not only underpins the Nissan Ariya but also Renault’s Megane E-Tech and Scenic E-Tech .
This architecture supports single- and dual-motor layouts with power outputs ranging from 160kW to 290kW in the Ariya, and battery capacities between 65kWh and 90kWh. It’s understood the Sunderland factory which built the previous two generations of Leaf for Australia will continue to supply the local market with t.
