OVERVIEW
NISSAN LEAF
When fully charged, the Leaf has an effective maximum range of about 80 miles. That’s sufficient to schlep most people from home to work and back, but longer trips will, of course, pose a challenge. As such, the Leaf is best for multicar households or those with shorter commutes. Another must is having a garage, ideally with a 240-volt charger. If you can check these boxes, though, the Nissan Leaf could really revolutionize your driving experience. Discover the ins and outs on used Nissan LEAFs, available now in go buy used cars’s inventory.
NOTEWORTHY FEATURES
ROOMY DESIGN
Thanks to the vehicle’s battery pack being stored under the floor beneath the seats, the LEAF’s design gives way to a car that has a surprisingly open and comfortable feel for an electric vehicle (EV). Headroom is ample for front row passengers and the cargo space available behind the rear seats is plentiful at 24 cubic feet (big enough to fit 6 bags of golf clubs). Fold the rear seats down to increase storage capacity to 30 cubic feet.
SOLID CRUISING RANGE
On a full battery charge, the LEAF has a range of 84 miles before requiring a recharge. While that figure may give you some pause, the 84-mile range actually ranks as one of the highest in the EV class and is a solid choice for individuals looking to use the LEAF as an urban commuter.
QUALITY TECH FEATURES
Complete with a modern cabin design, the Nissan LEAF is outfitted with system controls that evoke a high-tech feel. The split-level instrument panels offer sharp graphics that relay key information, and the touchscreen menus and physical buttons for the vehicle’s climate control make operating the LEAF’s many systems a breeze.
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
ACCELERATION
With its electric powertrain, the LEAF provides quick acceleration from a complete stop, however working up to freeway speeds off an on-ramp can feel like a chore for the vehicle. There are a handful of competing EVs that outperform the LEAF in this department.
LEGROOM UP FRONT
While there’s no shortage of headroom available up front, the legroom afforded by the LEAF can leave taller drivers feeling somewhat cramped.
HOME CHARGING STATION
The hang up with most EVs is the fact that refueling/recharging can be a bit of a pain. This is the case with the LEAF, as plugging into a standard 110-volt household outlet is likely best reserved for when you’re done for the day, as to mitigate gross utility charges. For most LEAF owners, a 240-volt charging station is more or less necessary, and even then it can take eight hours to charge a depleted battery with a standard 3.3 kW charger.
NISSAN LEAF
Top 10 Reasons to Get a NISSAN LEAF
10. Eco-Friendly, All-Electric Vehicle
Drivers who care about the environment will appreciate the 2019 Nissan Leaf. Unlike a hybrid, it doesn’t consume any gasoline. This means you don’t have to worry about any harmful emissions being released into the atmosphere. Although the Leaf doesn’t have the longest driving range in the segment, you’re unlikely to run out of juice running daily errands. A full charge will enable you to travel up to 150 miles.
9. Delivers a Punchy Performance
Expect the 2019 Nissan Leaf will deliver a lively performance on the road. Like many of today’s other electric vehicles, the Leaf produces a good amount of low-end torque. With a total of 236 pound-feet of torque on tap, you can look forward to experiencing instant power delivery. Overtaking a slow-moving vehicle on the highway doesn’t take much effort. The Leaf recorded a 0-60 time of 7.5 seconds, which makes it just as quick as a gas-powered hatchback.
8. Smooth Driving Dynamics
The first-generation Leaf was a rather boring car to drive. Fortunately, that’s not the case with the 2019 Nissan Leaf. A low center of gravity enables the new Leaf to offer competent handling. Although the Leaf can’t match the agility of a true performance car, it never feels unstable on the road. Light steering also makes the Leaf very easy to maneuver around town. Even new drivers will be inspired with confidence.
7. e-Pedal Simplifies Driving
An e-Pedal is found on the 2019 Nissan Leaf. This innovative feature enables you to essentially drive with just one pedal. While pressing down on the e-Pedal allows you to accelerate, removing your foot brings the Leaf to a stop. The e-Pedal definitely makes driving in stop-and-go traffic less nerve-racking. Although the thought of using only one pedal may scare some drivers, it will quickly become second nature.
6. Cooler Exterior Styling Won't Embarrass Younger Drivers
In the past, electric vehicles such as the Leaf often had an unsightly appearance. Last year, Nissan transformed this electric hatchback into a far more attractive ride. Because the Leaf’s charging port is so neatly concealed, many onlookers won’t even know it’s an electric vehicle. While basic steel wheels come standard, available 17-inch alloy wheels give the Leaf a sportier look. Meanwhile, LED lighting is found on the range-topping SL model.
5. Practical Electric Vehicle
The 2019 Nissan Leaf is a good fit for modern families. Because of the Leaf’s excellent legroom, even adults will have no complaints about riding in the back. A smooth ride and well-shaped seats make the Leaf a comfortable commuter car. You will also enjoy the hatchback’s flexible cargo area. Because Nissan positioned the battery low to the ground, storage space isn’t compromised. If you need to haul a large item such as a bike, simply fold down the rear seats.
4. A Good Value for a Green Car
Prices for the 2019 Nissan Leaf start at around $30,000. However, keep in mind that you’re also eligible for a $7,500 tax credit from the federal government. Rivals, such as the Chevrolet Bolt, will cost you an extra $6,500. A 100,000-mile warranty covers the Leaf’s battery pack. The new Leaf also comes equipped with plenty of popular features. Some of the standard equipment includes Bluetooth, satellite radio, and forward collision warning with automatic braking.
3. Fine NissanConnect Infotainment System
The NissanConnect infotainment system was recently updated last year. It’s a very good interface that now supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You’ll love how easy it is to connect your smartphone. A 7.0-inch touch screen comes standard on the SV and SL trims. Nissan also designed the interface with a charging port.
2. Bose Energy Efficient Series Audio System
Owning an electric vehicle no longer means you’re just limited to basic features. A Bose Energy Efficient Series audio system is available for the new Leaf. It’s designed to conserve power while still rewarding you with a fantastic music-listening experience. The audio system comes with seven lightweight speakers, which produce very good sound.
1. Pro-Pilot Assist Semi-Autonomous Safety System
While the Nissan Leaf isn’t a self-driving car, it does offer a cutting-edge Pro-Pilot Assist feature. It combines smart cruise control and lane keeping into one system. Although Pro-Pilot Assist requires drivers to keep their hands on the wheel, it can actually steer you down the road and adjust your speed when approaching traffic. This feature certainly helps to minimize driver fatigue.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2019 Nissan Leaf – The Cons
1. Driving Range Still Not Long Enough for Some People
Although the Nissan Leaf’s 150-mile driving range is good enough for urban dwellers, some drivers may still desire a longer range. You may have trouble using the leaf for vacation traveling. The average road trip is at least 300 miles. A driving range of 238 miles makes the Chevrolet Bolt far more appropriate for extended journeys. Luckily, Nissan does plan to introduce a long-range battery in the near future.
2. Just a Few Interior Flaws
Unfortunately, you can’t get the 2019 Nissan Leaf with a telescoping steering wheel. This feature would make it easier for you to obtain the perfect driving position. Furthermore, there’s a hump in the rear floor. Because of this issue, middle passengers in the backseat are forced to sit in an uncomfortable position. Although small kids won’t mind the hump, adults will likely find it to be quite annoying.
3. Not a Good Vehicle for Harsh Winters
The Nissan Leaf is a front-wheel-drive vehicle. This could pose a problem for the drivers who must travel in the snow. If you live in a snow-prone area, consider getting an AWD hybrid.
4. Charging Stations Are Sparse
Unfortunately, electric charging stations are still hard to find in many parts of the country. Drivers who live in rural areas will likely need to recharge their Leaf at home. You can expect a full charge to take around 16 hours using a regular household outlet.
5. Numb Steering Feel
There’s not much feedback from the Leaf’s steering system. Although the Leaf is easy to steer, it does not connect you to the road surface. Unfortunately, Nissan didn’t design the new Leaf with a sport driving mode.
How It Stacks Up to the Competition
When shopping for a new electric car, you should check out the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt. Despite its higher sticker price, the Chevy Bolt does deliver more performance than the Nissan Leaf. You also can’t overlook the Bolt’s significantly longer driving range and a greater number of standard features.
The 2019 Hyundai Ioniq is another electric car worth considering. It boasts a longer warranty and provides more interior space. You’ll also find the Ioniq’s price to be just as affordable.
If you’re willing to spend more money, take a look at the 2019 BMW i3. It’s among the most luxurious electric vehicles under $50,000. However, the i3 does not have a lengthy all-electric range.
Conclusion
The 2019 Nissan Leaf stands out as an eco-friendly commuter car. Because of the Leaf’s roomy interior, it is a good choice for the families who spend most of their time in the big city. Strong acceleration and capable handling also make the Leaf a pleasing vehicle to drive. A good number of advanced safety technologies are now available. If you regularly travel out of town, the 2019 Nissan Leaf won’t be a good choice. Its driving range is simply not long enough for road trips.
