(Motorsport-Total.com/Motor1) – We have quite a few things on our bingo card, but not that we would talk about similar design features of Nissan and Ferrari within one article. Unexpected things happen often – so here we go: Shortly after the Luce was shown for the first time earlier this week, some observers drew parallels between the design of the first electric Ferrari and the third-generation Leaf.
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Sure, the colors are similar, and if you squint your eyes, there is certainly a fleeting similarity in the basic shape and silhouette. I myself spoke internally earlier this week more of a “chubby” Honda NSX … just by the way, in case the next Japanese car could use some compliments.
On closer inspection, however, many details of the Luce make it clear that it practically has nothing in common with the Leaf. Nevertheless, Nissan took note of the comparisons with the controversial electric car from Maranello – and decided to address the topic.
The Irish Nissan branch posted both cars side by side on social networks – and as expected, the comment section heated up. Nissan explained that they feel “flattered” that people recognize Leaf design features in the Luce – even though, honestly, they look very different.
But that’s not all: Nissan even left a direct message to Ferrari:
“They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery – so thank you, Ferrari. Nissan. Always a smart choice.”
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Car manufacturers rarely tease each other online – and few would have expected Nissan to take a jab at Ferrari. Whether Maranello will respond remains to be seen.
Photo gallery: Ferrari Luce (2026): This is the first pure electric Ferrari
Honestly, we are also happy about a bit more life in the often very monotonous and perfectly outwardly constructed car world. There is no real reason for Ferrari to be upset here: It is a harmless and very charming joke that is mainly intended to generate social media interaction. After all, Leaf and Luce are hardly direct rivals.
The first electric car from Maranello starts at 550,000 euros, while the Leaf starts at just under 41,000 euros – making the Ferrari about 13.5 times more expensive. Realistically, no one compares a Ferrari with a Nissan – regardless of the models. And anyone who takes a controversial approach in design has to live with the reactions. No matter who they come from.
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More on the current Luce debate:
Ex-Ferrari boss warns: Luce “risks destroying a legend”
We have a serious problem with car design
