Nissan Leaf

Get inside the Leaf with the Nissan’s Intelligent key that lets you start this EV with push-button start function. The newly launched Nissan Leaf offers a spacious and roomy cabin that extends comfort, while the wide-door entry makes it easier for you to get in and out with ease. However, when compared to Chevrolet Bolt, and Tesla Model 3, the low quality of interior material hinders the appeal, and make it look cheaper in its class. Also, the interiors don’t resemble a visionary design, the dashboard wears traditional design and is fitted with the Nissan Connect 8-inch color display, that somehow enlarges the ease to access the infotainment system. However, when it comes to connectivity features, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are unavailable in the base grade of Leaf. In addition, the lack of the telescopic steering wheel, and scanty legroom for rear passengers might annoy you further.

Nissan Leaf carries a damn sporty design that’s composed to match its character. The sleek lines are carried over from the front to the rear and strike perfectly with the exteriors. In the front, the unique V-Motion 3D mesh grille extends the bold presence of Leaf. While the floating roof integrates seamlessly with the overall design of this EV. And, the contoured silhouette streamlines the sporty and aerodynamic nature of this vehicle. The drag coefficient of Leaf is 0.28, which is truly exceptional, and all praises go to the continuous flat underbody structure. That allows the air to pass beneath it and helps in reducing shakes while driving at winding speeds. The sleek design of Nissan Leaf is complemented with 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, and lighting package that includes automatic unique square-shaped LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, and LED taillights.

The electric motor churns out great power without affecting the quietness of the cabin. The comfort continues further with the spacious and comfortable seats, while the independent strut front suspension and rear torsion beam suspension ensure the smooth ride. In terms of handling and agility, Nissan has engineered the Leaf’s chassis to remain stable while coping with the increased power output. And for better handling, this vehicle comes equipped with the speed-sensitive electric power steering that gives you linear feel and good control over the wheels. Furthermore, the heavy components like battery are placed in the center and improve the inertia, meanwhile, the intelligent ride control system regulates the torque and ensures smooth cornering.

Nissan Leaf is characterized by standard and PLUS variants. The standard grades include S, SV, SL, and are powered by the 110 kW AC synchronous electric motor that can deliver exhilarating power of 147 hp at 3,282 rpm, and torque of 236 lb-ft. These grades are backed by the 40 kWh Lithium-ion battery that comes with quick charge function and comes with a driving range of 150 miles. While the PLUS grades include S PLUS, SV PLUS, SL Plus, and these variants are motorized by a more powerful 160 kW AC synchronous electric motor that can produce power of 214 hp and torque of 250 lb-ft. Also, the PLUS models are backed by a much bigger 62 kWh Lithium-ion battery and can travel up to 226 miles. 

Nissan Leaf’s stopping power is driven by vented disc brakes fitted in all the four wheels. While Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, and Automatic Emergency Braking further ensure that the vehicle remains in the control. On the safety front, Nissan Leaf leads the race with best in class safety features that too at a much lower price. It comes decked with many active and passive features. Like, in this EV, you’ll get Nissan advanced two-stage Airbag system, Intelligent Forwards Collision Warning system, Blind Spot Warning, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. 

Nissan has upgraded the Leaf’s stature with the PLUS variants. With the new enhancements, the driving range and power of this vehicle have been upgraded to 226 miles, and now it rivals equally with Chevrolet Bolt and Tesla Model 3. But, on the downside, the front fascia doesn’t look great. While the interiors are not built and layered with the rich quality material. However, when it comes to the budget EV, Leaf is a great choice with a pricing range of $30,000- $37,000.