2024 Nissan Leaf review: Discovering the Nissan Leaf's Next Chapter

1. Introduction
2. Pros and cons
3. Performance
4. Interior
5. Exterior
6. Safety features
7. Technology
8. Infotainment
9. Maintenance and warranty
10. Conclusion

Introduction

Is the Nissan Leaf 100% electric? Nissan was the first car company to make a fully electric car that regular people could afford. It was called the Leaf, and it was a small, five-door car. The Leaf paved the way for other affordable electric vehicles. Now, in 2024, Nissan has a new version of the Leaf. But the 2024 Leaf is a bit different. It came out on June 23, 2023. It can't go as far on one charge (212 miles), and it takes longer to charge compared to some other electric cars. This might not be very pleasant if you need to drive long distances. But, if you primarily drive around your local area, the Leaf could be a good choice. What is new? Nissan has opted not to introduce any noteworthy updates to the Leaf for the year 2024; however, the company has officially declared the cessation of production for this model.

Pros

• standard driver assist features
• Quiet 
• Comfortable 
• inexpensive
• Large trunk

Cons

• Limited battery capacity
• Short range
• The Leaf's type of fast-charging port isn't widely supported

Performance:

How many trims of Leaf'24? Nissan Leaf 2024 comes in two trims. The first one, the SV trim level, made in Japan, offers an electric driving experience powered by an AC synchronous motor. The 40 kWh battery capacity positions it slightly below the Tesla Model Y 2024 in terms of energy storage. What is the charging time of Leaf? One commendable feature is the efficient charging time, with the ability to reach 80% capacity in just 40 minutes, providing a quick turnaround for those on the go. The range per charge is pegged at 150 miles, aligning it with the 2024 BYD YuanUp.

How is the performance of Leaf'24? In terms of performance, the 147 hp motor generates 236 lb-ft of torque, propelling the Leaf from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 7.4 seconds. While not as quick as the Tesla Model 3 2024, the Leaf SV exhibits smooth acceleration. The top speed reaches 75 mph, which might not be at the pinnacle of speed demons, but it's ample for urban and suburban driving. The transmission is a single-speed direct drive, and the Leaf SV operates on a front-wheel-drive drivetrain.

What is the basic price of the Nissan Leaf? The pricing of the Nissan Leaf SV comes in at $41,748, signalling a bump from its predecessor, the 2023 Nissan Leaf. While the increase in price might be a point of consideration, the enhanced features and performance may justify the uptick for discerning electric vehicle enthusiasts.

The SV Plus trim of the electric vehicle (EV) under discussion is equipped with a substantial 60 kWh battery, a noteworthy upgrade from its counterpart. What is the maximum range of Leaf? This battery capacity contributes significantly to the extended range, allowing the SV Plus to cover an impressive 212 miles on a single charge, which is better than the SV trim. 

In terms of performance, the SV Plus is equipped with a 214 horsepower electric motor that delivers a robust 250 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain configuration ensures a responsive and dynamic driving experience. The acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is achieved in a respectable 7.9 seconds, showcasing the EV's capability to provide swift and efficient acceleration, making it suitable for urban commuting and highway driving alike. While the top speed of 106 mph may not be the highest in its class, it is ample for most everyday driving scenarios. 

The focus of the SV Plus is on providing a balance between performance and range, making it a practical choice for daily commuting and shorter trips. What is the top speed? It's worth noting that the top speed of 106 mph is slightly less than that of the 2024 Tata Nexon EV, but it is still within a range that satisfies the needs of the average driver. The pricing for the SV Plus trim is set at $47,498, reflecting a premium over the SV trim. While the cost is higher, the added battery capacity, improved range, and enhanced performance make it an attractive option for those seeking a more robust electric driving experience.

Interior:

How is the interior?

Despite the predominant use of black plastic in the Leaf's cabin, the overall appearance manages to steer clear of a cheap aesthetic, thanks to well-executed assembly and consistent textures. The gauge cluster is a notable feature, comprising a sizable analogue speedometer complemented by an 8-inch digital display that offers versatile configurations for various information displays.

Comfort takes the forefront in the Leaf's seating, akin to the relaxation provided by a La-Z-Boy. The rear seat, offering ample space for adults, contributes to an overall satisfying interior experience. While the Leaf's back seat doesn't create a completely flat load floor when folded, the cargo capacity stands out as one of the best in its class. Impressively, we were able to accommodate seven carry-on suitcases behind the back seat and a staggering 19 with the back seat folded.

For perspective, the Bolt EV falls short in cargo capacity, managing only five carry-on suitcases in its cargo area, maxing out at 16 with the back seats stowed. Even the Niro EV, with its more SUV-like design, only slightly outperformed the Leaf in cargo space during our testing. In essence, the Leaf remains at the forefront among electric cars when it comes to cargo capacity.

Exterior:

How is the body? The 2024 Nissan Leaf has undergone a notable style refresh, presenting a visually appealing and sleek design that enhances its futuristic appeal. The front end showcases a distinctive V-shaped grille reminiscent of a boomerang, contributing to the car's overall modern aesthetic. Complementing this is a set of sharp headlights that not only illuminate the road but also provide the vehicle with a determined and focused gaze. The inclusion of an illuminated Nissan emblem in the grille adds a touch of coolness, especially during nighttime driving.

Moving to the sides, the Leaf's high roofline creates a spacious interior feel, enhancing the overall comfort for occupants. The availability of two-tone paint options adds a touch of sophistication, providing potential buyers with customization choices. The base model features 16-inch steel wheels with covers while upgrading to the SV PLUS introduces sportier 17-inch alloy wheels, elevating the car's overall aesthetic.

Examining the rear of the vehicle, the taillights are sleekly designed, wrapping around the corners and contributing to a broader stance. The sculpted bumper aligns seamlessly with the car's curves, presenting a clean and uncluttered rear end. While the 2024 Nissan Leaf may not be the most attention-grabbing car on the road, its modern and aerodynamic design offers an appealing visual experience, representing a significant improvement from its previous iterations.

Leaf strikes a balance between style and practicality. While it may not boast the most captivating design, it avoids being mundane, presenting a modern and aerodynamic look that sets it apart. The inclusion of two-tone paint options and attractive wheels on higher trims injects personality into the vehicle, making it an attractive option for those seeking a stylish and distinctive electric car that doesn't blend into the crowd.

What are the dimensions of Leaf 2024? Leaf embraces its hatchback identity with a length of 184.3 inches, making it a compact contender in the automotive arena. While the measurements may not scream "dominant road presence," the car seems to prioritize functionality over sheer size. The modest 60.3-inch height and 71.7-inch width contribute to its elegant and urban-friendly character. It is perfect for manoeuvring through tight city streets and squeezing into parking spots that would induce a headache for larger vehicles.

What is the wheelbase measurement of Leaf'24? The wheelbase measures 106.3 inches, providing a stable foundation for the Leaf. This suggests a well-balanced chassis, potentially enhancing the overall ride quality and handling. However, it also prompts the question of how much interior space has been sacrificed in the pursuit of agility. With a ground clearance of 5.9 inches, the Leaf maintains a reasonably low profile, hinting at its eco-conscious focus and efficiency. While this may not be the car for off-road adventures, it aligns with the Leaf's urban-friendly design, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride on paved surfaces.

What is the curb weight of leaf'24? The curb weight of 3,873 lbs is hefty for a compact hatchback, raising eyebrows about the Leaf's efficiency in terms of energy consumption and overall performance. While electric vehicles are often praised for their lightweight design, this figure might impact the Leaf's acceleration, handling, and overall efficiency. Potential buyers may question whether the weight is a necessary compromise for a more robust build or an aspect that could impede the Leaf's electric prowess.

Its dimensions suggest an agile and manoeuvrable car. Still, potential buyers may need to weigh the advantages of its size against the curb weight, questioning whether it aligns with their expectations for an electric vehicle in terms of efficiency and performance.

Safety Features:

Nissan has implemented its Safety Shield 360 suite of driver-assistance features as a standard offering across its entire lineup. This suite encompasses various safety elements, with the optional inclusion of the brand's innovative ProPilot Assist semi-autonomous driving mode. Notable standard safety features comprise automated emergency braking equipped with pedestrian detection, as well as blind-spot monitoring complemented by rear cross-traffic alert capabilities. For those seeking an extra layer of driving convenience, there is the option for adaptive cruise control integrated with a semi-autonomous driving mode.

Examining additional safety components, Nissan's vehicles are equipped with stability control, traction control, and an anti-theft alarm. Drawing a parallel with the Tesla Model 3 in 2024, both Nissan and Tesla models share the presence of a crash sensor, rear parking aid, blind-spot monitor, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. These features collectively contribute to enhancing the safety and driving experience, aligning with the evolving standards.

Infotainment:

All Leaf cars have a similar 8.0-inch screen for playing music and using phone apps like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If you want, you can add a navigation system. The software on the screen, called Nissan Connect, could be more attractive, but it's easy to use and responds quickly when you touch it. People who really care about good sound might not be happy with the six speakers that come with the Leaf, but you can pay extra for a seven-speaker Bose system. However, we weren't impressed with it when we tried it during our test drive.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Nissan provides a warranty for their cars, and it's a promise that they'll take care of certain things if something goes wrong. For most Nissan cars, this promise lasts for three years or up to 36,000 miles. The essential parts that make the car move called the powertrain, are covered for five years or 60,000 miles. Now, here's something interesting about the Nissan Leaf, a specific kind of car they make. The battery in the Leaf is extra special, and Nissan promises to look after it for a longer time – up to eight years or 100,000 miles. Unfortunately, Nissan doesn't offer free maintenance, so you'll have to take care of that yourself. That's the deal with the warranty and coverage for Nissan cars.

Conclusion:

The Nissan Leaf is explicitly designed for daily commuters, offering excellent safety features. If you want a car with a similar price but more driving range, check out the Hyundai Kona Electric or the Chevrolet Bolt and Bolt EUV. Here's an exciting bit of news: Nissan plans to stop making the Leaf. Instead, they are putting their focus on a new, more expensive electric car called the Ariya, which is bigger than the Leaf.