The Nissan Leaf, a pioneer in the world of electric vehicles, is nearing the end of its second generation and showing signs of aging. Since its debut in 2010, the Leaf has sold over 650,000 units worldwide, surpassing even the Tesla Model 3 in cumulative sales. However, as the electric car market has evolved rapidly, the Leaf now faces stiff competition from newer models with greater performance, longer range, and faster charging capabilities.
The second-generation Leaf, introduced in 2017, offered significant improvements over its predecessor. The battery range increased by 50%, motor power by 40%, and torque by 25%. In 2019, Nissan launched the ‘e+’ version with a range of up to 239 miles. However, these improvements are no longer as impressive compared to the advancements made by other electric cars in the market.
One major setback for the Leaf is its reduced performance, shorter electric range, and slower charging speed compared to its rivals. As a result, Nissan has positioned the Leaf as a budget-friendly option in the electric car class. The larger-battery version of the car was discontinued in 2023, but there is still enough dealer stock to last until 2025.
While the UK production of the Leaf ended in March 2024, the car remains a compelling option for those seeking an affordable electric vehicle. The Leaf offers a good balance of compactness, practicality, and efficiency. It is relatively light, compact, and spacious. However, it falls short in terms of battery capacity, electric range, performance, and charging speed compared to its competitors.
The Leaf’s interior design is simple and functional, with physical switchgear that makes it easy to operate. While it may lack the luxurious feel of more expensive electric cars, it provides a reassuring and reliable cabin experience. The driving position is improved but still feels somewhat awkward due to the placement of the drive battery. The rear seat space is limited compared to rivals like the MG4 and VW ID 3, but the boot space is impressive at 385 liters.
In terms of performance, the Leaf is not as quick as some of its rivals, but it provides a smooth and comfortable driving experience for day-to-day use. The car features Nissan’s ‘ePedal’ driving setting, which enables strong regenerative braking and allows for efficient driving in stop-start traffic. However, the car’s autonomous driving systems feel slightly outdated compared to more modern counterparts.
The Leaf prioritizes comfort and predictability over sportiness and excitement. Its steering and handling are easy to understand and maneuver, making it an ideal choice for everyday driving. The ride comfort and body control are medium-soft, providing a comfortable experience on various road surfaces.
When it comes to running costs, the Leaf stands out as one of the most affordable electric cars on the market. Nissan has reduced the entry-level price and offers various finance options to make the car accessible to a wider audience. The real-world electric range and rapid charging speed may not be impressive, but they are still sufficient for many drivers. The Leaf’s claimed range of 168 miles can be achieved around town and at slower speeds, while longer-range motorway commuting may result in around 130 miles of autonomy. The car’s peak DC rapid charging speed is 50kW, allowing for a 10-80% charge in about an hour.
In conclusion, despite its age and some shortcomings, the Nissan Leaf remains a reliable and affordable option in the electric car market. For drivers who prioritize range and charging speed, there may be better options available. However, for those looking for a budget-friendly electric vehicle with practicality and efficiency, the Leaf still has appeal. Its mature and competent package, combined with attractive pricing, makes it a viable choice in the EV bargain basement.
