Nissan LEAF Recognized as World’s Best Compact Car by WWCOTY

The new Nissan LEAF was named World’s Best Compact Car by the Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year jury. Learn what the award highlights about the model.

The all-new third-generation Nissan LEAF has received international recognition after being named World’s Best Compact Car by the Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY) jury. The decision was announced on January 13, 2026, as part of the first stage of voting in one of the world’s most influential automotive awards.

The title was awarded by a jury of 84 automotive journalists from 54 countries. WWCOTY emphasizes that it does not select a “woman’s car” but evaluates vehicles using universal criteria that matter to everyday drivers, including safety, quality, price, design, ease of driving, practical benefits, and environmental footprint. Within these parameters, the new LEAF stood out in the compact segment.

The jury highlighted that the third-generation LEAF brings together a refined aerodynamic design, an improved electric powertrain, and a strong focus on user-friendly technology. The model is offered with 52 kWh and 75 kWh battery options, reflecting Nissan’s intention to cover a wide range of daily mobility needs, from urban commuting to longer-distance travel.

Technology played a key role in the evaluation. The new LEAF is equipped with Google built-in, integrating Google Maps, Google Assistant, and access to apps via the Play Store. This setup allows drivers to control navigation, climate functions, and media through voice commands, creating a more seamless and intuitive in-car experience.

Nissan also points to the broader significance of the award. As one of the pioneers of mass-market electric vehicles, the LEAF has played a central role in the global shift toward electrification. According to Nissan President and CEO Ivan Espinosa, recognition from WWCOTY reinforces the company’s commitment to making electric vehicles both accessible and desirable as the market continues to mature.

By winning the World’s Best Compact Car title, the new LEAF advances to the final round of the WWCOTY 2026 awards. While the overall winner will be announced in March, this result already underlines the model’s strong positioning and suggests that the LEAF remains a key reference point in the evolving compact EV segment.