2014 Nissan LEAF
2013 Nissan LEAF
2013 NIssan LEAF

2015 Nissan LEAF

Pros: Impressively “normal” feel for an all-electric car; reasonably zippy acceleration; tax credits available; cheap running costs

Cons: Limited driving range, especially in cold weather; challenges of finding available charging stations; expense of home charger installation

CG Says: The 2015 Nissan LEAF sees a few minor updates, including the addition of Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant and Voice Destination Entry on the SV and SL trim levels. All 2015 LEAFs now include the “B –Mode” drive mode, which engages regenerative braking more aggressively during deceleration. Were it a conventional or gas/electric hybrid compact car, Leaf would be a decent value. It drives well and is reasonably practical. As a pure-electric car, however, it works exceptionally well. It’s certainly not for everyone. In ideal temperature and driving conditions, Nissan’s claimed range of 100 miles is realistic. In cold climates, though, that can be cut by up to half. This is not a vehicle you would take on a long road trip, but it’s an ideal urban/suburban commuter. Its price seems steep for a compact car, but various tax credits and cash rebates from federal, state, and local governments, as well as incentives offered by the private sector, can help defray the cost. Overall driving costs that can be measured in pennies-per-mile also help counter the initial outlay.

The Facts
Class Compact Car
Body Style(s) 4-door hatchback
Passenger Count 5
Drive Wheels front-wheel drive
Manufacturer Nissan
Nation of Manufacture USA
Base Prices S: $29,010
SV: $32,100
SL: $35,120

Base Engine
electric motor
Horsepower
107
Std. Transmission
single-speed
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
126 MPGe
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
101 MPGe

2013 Nissan LEAF
2015 Nissan LEAF
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