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Nissan has reaffirmed its leadership in electric mobility, with the new British-built LEAF ranking in first position in Auto Express’s definitive guide to all 161 electric cars on sale in the UK. The top placing reasserts LEAF’s position as the title’s overall Car of the Year for 2026.
Evaluating every electric car available on the UK market, Auto Express’s expert reviewers placed the third-generation LEAF ahead of all competitors, while the recently introduced all-electric MICRA claimed 15th position, giving Nissan two models in the coveted top 20. Nissan’s sleek ARIYA crossover also featured prominently in 69th position.
Fresh from being named the 2026 Auto Express Car of the Year, the LEAF claimed top honours in the 161-car ranking. Highlighting its British heritage, value and dramatic transformation, Auto Express noted:
“The all-new third-generation Nissan LEAF stands head and shoulders above them all in our eyes. In fact, we think this outstanding electric family car – which offers excellent value for money and manages to hit the sweet spot in every area – is the best new car on sale. EV or not.”
The reviewers also praised the LEAF’s design shift from hatchback to fastback, its user-friendly interior featuring built-in Google tech, and its real-world usability with a range of up to 386 miles and 105kW rapid charging.
Securing 15th place in the overall standings, the electric MICRA was praised for its shared platform credentials, technology and driving dynamics:
“There’s almost no practical reason that the Nissan MICRA resides a few places lower than its Renault 5 cousin in our list. It shares all of its best qualities, such as a perky driving experience, excellent value, interior tech and a good range of battery options... it’s still a superb supermini.”
Placed 69th in the overall ranking, the former Auto Express Car of the Year winner was recognised for its cabin quality and improved value proposition following recent pricing adjustments:
“Price cuts have brought the Nissan ARIYA back into contention, and we still love the smartly designed, high-quality interior.”
The strong showing across three distinct segments highlights the breadth of Nissan’s electrified line-up – from urban mobility with the MICRA, to family fastbacks with the LEAF, and premium long-distance travel with the ARIYA.
Designed, engineered, and manufactured at Nissan’s Sunderland plant, the success of the LEAF in particular underlines Britain's central role in Nissan’s global EV strategy.
All-new LEAF is available to test-drive and order now. Nissan announced last month the availability of a 52kWh battery option for the car, following the introduction of the 75kWh version earlier in 2026. Like its 75kWh sibling, the new variant qualifies for the UK Government’s full £3,750 Electric Car Grant.
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