Next-Gen Nissan Leaf Turns Into a Mitsubishi, While Rogue Goes Plug-In Hybrid

Abu Dhabi : Nissan and Mitsubishi are strengthening their alliance with shared electric and hybrid models, swapping designs to recover in a tough market.

• The new Nissan Leaf becomes a Mitsubishi-badged EV in 2026.
• Leaf crossover launches Q3 2025 with NACS charging.
• Nissan gets a plug-in hybrid from Mitsubishi, likely the Outlander PHEV.
• Rogue lineup to expand with multiple electrified versions.

Nissan and Mitsubishi Swap Electric and Hybrid Models in Major Lineup Shakeup

Tough times call for smart partnerships. In a bold move to regain market strength, Nissan and Mitsubishi are doubling down on their alliance. The two Japanese automakers are now trading vehicles—Nissan’s next-generation Leaf will become a Mitsubishi EV, while Nissan will rebadge a Mitsubishi plug-in hybrid as its own.

The Next Leaf Will Serve Two Brands

The upcoming third-generation Nissan Leaf is not just another model update—it’s a strategic asset. Slated for release in Q3 2025, the new Leaf will ditch its hatchback design for a crossover body style and ride on the same CMF-EV platform used by the Nissan Ariya.

The revamped model will also be Nissan’s first vehicle in the U.S. to support the NACS charging port, opening up compatibility with Tesla’s Supercharger network. Additional confirmed features include a sleek drag coefficient of 0.26, 19-inch alloy wheels, and an optional panoramic sunroof.

But the Leaf won’t remain exclusive to Nissan. In a smart alliance play, Mitsubishi will launch its own version of the Leaf crossover in the summer of 2026 for the U.S. market. The vehicle will wear Mitsubishi badges but carry Nissan underpinnings, speeding up Mitsubishi’s EV rollout.

Mitsubishi's Lineup Hints at Leaf-Based Model

Last year, Mitsubishi released a teaser image hinting at its future EV lineup. The central highlight appeared to be a compact crossover, possibly inspired by the D:X concept shown in 2023. An earlier report from Automotive News also mentioned that U.S. Mitsubishi dealers were briefed on an upcoming stubby electric minivan-style vehicle—likely the Leaf-based model.

What Nissan Gets in Return

In exchange for sharing the Leaf’s platform and tech, Nissan is receiving a Mitsubishi-developed plug-in hybrid. Although the model’s name hasn’t been officially revealed, all signs point to a rebadged Outlander PHEV—possibly to be sold as the Nissan Rogue PHEV.

• The teaser image from March hints at a familiar design.
• This will be Nissan’s first-ever plug-in hybrid in the U.S.
• The move aligns with earlier Nissan plans to launch a Rogue PHEV.
• Nissan had already confirmed a PHEV Rogue for the U.S. market.

Nissan also teased a future version of the Rogue featuring its proprietary E-Power range-extender tech, expected later in the decade.

Rogue Will Offer Multiple Powertrains

Looking ahead, the Rogue will likely become one of Nissan’s most flexible models in terms of engine offerings. The fourth-generation version will be sold in three forms: a standard gasoline engine, a traditional plug-in hybrid, and a future E-Power version.

Shared Innovation to Weather the Storm

The move to swap EVs and PHEVs shows Nissan and Mitsubishi are serious about staying competitive. The new Leaf crossover turning into a Mitsubishi EV and the upcoming Rogue PHEV reveal a more open and practical alliance. With both brands facing challenges, this strategy could be the reboot they need to thrive in the changing automotive landscape.