2026 Nissan Leaf vs. Tesla Model Y vs. Chevy Equinox EV: Affordable EVs Compared


The Nissan Leaf has just entered its third generation. It's blobbier, has more range, and is packed full of new features and tech. But how does it stack up to other affordable EVs in the class? We put it up against the ubiquitous Tesla Model Y and budget-friendly Chevy Equinox EV to see if the new Leaf has what it takes to make some waves in a crowded market. 

How does the new Leaf stack up on range?
Nissan hasn't given range estimates for every new Leaf trim yet, but it has said it will top out at around 303 miles on a full charge. Fully loaded models with larger, less aero-efficient wheels are rated at a Nissan-estimated 259 miles. Keep in mind, however, that all Leaf EVs will be front-wheel-drive only — so that lower range figure isn't just because there's another electric motor sucking up more power.

That doesn't compare well to the Equinox EV or the Model Y. The Chevy is rated at 319 miles of range for front-drive models, and all-wheel drive models get 307 miles. In the Edmunds EV Range Test, a front-wheel-drive Equinox EV blew its estimate away, clocking 356 miles. Perhaps the Leaf can pull off the same trick of overperforming, but we'll have to wait until we get one in for testing to know for certain. 

The Model Y also fares better than the Leaf. The EPA puts the range of the model we tested at 327 miles, and that's exactly the figure it yielded on our range test. However, that's the fully loaded (and quite pricey) all-wheel-drive Launch Series. If you go for the more affordable rear-wheel-drive Model Y, the EPA says it will go up to 357 miles on a single charge. Read more

 

More Resources You Might Find Helpful


Do you also run a small business or side hustle in another niche like automotive services? Here are a few helpful tools and resources:

To list your automotive business, click here

To sell your inventory, click here

To post your automotive event, click here

See other automotive businesses like yours, click here

See all upcoming automotive events click here

See how other automotive-related businesses showcase their inventory for sale, lease, or rent, click here

Nissan LEAF Car Articles Tesla Model Y