The new Nissan LEAF has just secured one of the most unique and prestigious awards in the automotive industry: it has been named the 2026 Supreme Winner of the Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY), an award judged exclusively by female automotive journalists from around the world.
The recognition drew attention not only because of the result, but also due to the model’s history. Originally launched in 2010, the LEAF was the world’s first mass-produced electric car, helping pave the way for the popularization of electric vehicles long before the current global race toward electrification.
An electric car that made history
More than 15 years later, the LEAF arrives in its third generation with a completely updated project. The new model features a more modern design, improved driving range, and more intuitive technologies, while maintaining its mission of being an electric car that is easy to use in everyday life.
These qualities were decisive in helping the model stand out among 55 competing vehicles evaluated in the 2026 edition of the award.
The WWCOTY assesses cars based on factors that directly impact drivers’ real-world experience, such as safety, practicality, design, value, and environmental impact.
The jury is made up of 86 female automotive journalists from more than 50 countries, making the award one of the most comprehensive evaluations in the industry.
Not the only award
Interestingly, the model had already caught the jury’s attention even before winning the top title. At the beginning of 2026, the new LEAF was also named Best Compact Car of the year by the WWCOTY.
With the overall victory, the model reinforces its position as one of the most influential electric cars in history, proving that even after more than a decade on the market, it can still reinvent itself and attract new audiences.
+ US uses B-52H bombers in strikes against Iranian missile facilities
Source and image: Nissan. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
