Nissan Leaf crowned women’s Car of the Year

The all-new Nissan Leaf was adjudged recently the overall winner for 2026 by the Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year – the highest honor bestowed by the international jury comprised exclusively of women automotive journalists in Yokohama, Japan.

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 bested 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. The Nissan LEAF represents a mature and intelligent vision of electrification — one that makes electric mobility truly usable and accessible,” Marta García, the WWCOTY executive president said.

“New Leaf being named overall winner by the Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year is a proud moment for everyone at 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,” Ivan Espinosa, the president & CEO  of Nissan. 

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

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.