Nissan Leaf

The redesigned 2026 Leaf promises a far longer driving range than its predecessor. When it launches this fall, the front-wheel-drive EV will have a 214-hp, 160 kW electric motor and a 75 kWh battery. It will be able to cover between 259 and 303 miles, depending on the trim level. In 2026, Nissan will add an entry-level version with a 174-hp, 130 kW electric motor and 52 kWh battery. A Tesla-style NACS charge port is on the passenger front fender, while a J1772 port for Level 2 charging is on the driver’s side. Nissan says the new Leaf will have a roomier cabin and more cargo room than its predecessor, even though the EV’s exterior dimensions haven’t increased. The interior features a large digital screen for the driver's gauges that blends into another screen for the infotainment system. Base models get two 12.3-inch screens while the two top trims get dual 14.3-inch screens. All key active safety and driver assistance systems are standard, including ProPilot Assist, which combines adaptive cruise control and lane-centering to keep the Leaf centered in the lane.

The second generation Leaf electric car has a 40-kWh battery. We measured its driving range at 149 miles which is shorter than the Chevy Bolt's 250-mile range, but the Leaf is less expensive. The 2019 Leaf Plus, with a 62-kWh battery, has a rated range of 215 miles. It takes eight hours to charge it on a 240-volt connector. The E-Pedal feature decelerates the Leaf quite significantly when the driver eases off the accelerator, sending energy back to the battery. The Leaf accelerates decisively but the ride is stiff. Its handling is mundane but secure. The driving position can be uncomfortable for some drivers because the steering wheel doesn't telescope for reach. The optional ProPilot Assist can help keep the car in its lane and adjust its speed to keep track with surrounding traffic. 2018 brought standard forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. For 2019, a rear passenger alert system is standard. This feature is designed to prevent forgetting a child in the rear seat. The 2020 model added standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind spot warning, and automatic high beams. It also added standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Updates for 2022 brought updated ProPilot Assist software. In 2023, the Leaf received mild exterior styling updates. There were no changes for the 2024 and 2025 model years. 

Holding the distinction of being the first widely available and affordable all-electric car, the five-seat Nissan LEAF hatchback has typical range of approximately 75-miles. In our 2011 tests, a full charge took six hours using a 240-volt power source or 16 hours using 120 volts. Since our test, charge times have been shortened through updates to the car. At low speeds the extraordinarily quiet LEAF feels quick and rides comfortably. Cabin access is easy and the rear seat is fairly roomy. We measured 3.16 miles per kWh, the equivalent of 106 mpg. Running costs are extremely low: 3.5 cents per mile at the national average of 11 cents per kWh. Standard features include a heated steering wheel and seats. Model year 2013 brought a faster onboard charger and a cheaper S version. However, 2013 and later LEAF models scored Poor in the IIHS small-overlap crash test.