YOKOHAMA, Japan – Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced today that the all-new Elgrand has won the 2026-2027 Japan Automotive Hall of Fame (JAHFA) Car of the Year. The Nissan LEAF was named JAHFA Car Design of the Year, while the Nissan Skyline GT‑R (BNR32) was designated a JAHFA Historic Car in recognition of its legacy in automotive history.
The key attributes recognized for each award are as follows:
＜Car of the Year: Elgrand＞
1. Advanced electrified technologies that deliver both driving enjoyment and comfort at a high level
2. Driving competition in quality and performance in the premium minivan segment
3. Advanced optimization of the third-generation e‑POWER system and all-wheel drive control
＜Car Design of the Year: Nissan LEAF＞
1. A design that reinterprets Japanese aesthetics for the digital age
2. Stylish EV design enabled by meticulous aerodynamic engineering
3. A sophisticated blend of next-generation mobility innovation and aesthetic appeal
Launched in July this year, the all-new Elgrand adopts the third-generation e‑POWER hybrid system, the enhanced e‑4ORCE electric-drive all-wheel control technology, and the Intelligent Dynamic Suspension. These technologies improve ride comfort for every occupant while further elevating the ‘driving enjoyment’ that is part of the Elgrand’s DNA. The model has been well received by customers with over 10,000 cumulative orders. Nissan has been the recipient of the JAHFA Car of the Year for the Sakura (2022-2023), Note Aura (2021-2022) and LEAF (2011-12).
The all-new Nissan LEAF, now in its third generation, has been well received for its advanced design and smooth driving performance, as well as its practical driving range and advanced charging performance. In January, Nissan added the B5 grade, equipped with a 55 kWh battery, combining an accessible price with a driving range well suited to everything from everyday use to weekend drives. The lineup was further expanded in July with the launch of the Nissan LEAF NISMO, incorporating NISMO’s expertise developed through motorsports. This is Nissan’s fourth Car Design of the Year award, after the first generation LEAF won the award in 2011-2012.
The Nissan Skyline GT‑R (BNR32), launched in 1989, was designated a JAHFA Historic Car. Equipped with a 2.6-liter twin-turbocharged engine that complied with FIA regulations, and the ATTESA E-TS electronically controlled all-wheel drive system, the model helped reestablish Nissan’s reputation for performance globally. Its outstanding motorsports achievements were also highly regarded, including 29 consecutive victories in Japanese touring car racing and wins in international races overseas.
