What Year Nissan Leaf Is Best?

Except for the three Nissan Leaf years to avoid, we can pretty much recommend every model year if you’re searching for a Nissan Leaf that’s a decent option as a secondhand car. Having said that, we’d especially suggest the models from 2017 through 2020.

Of course, it might be difficult to find a secondhand 2019 or 2020 model in that case. Since most owners are still keeping their cars, the most modern models aren’t appearing on the used market very often.

It’s also important to keep in mind that compared to other models, you might have to pay a bit more for a used Nissan Leaf automobile. This is due to the fact that models with a lengthy history of dependability and efficiency tend to hold their value better than cars with more widespread problems.

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Even publications like Consumer Reports recommend a few of the preceding generation’s model years as excellent choices. Although the 2015, 2016, and 2017 Leafs have an unmistakably electric aspect, they do have a very uncomfortable appearance that some people may find rather endearing. Most of the used models you find on the market are under $10,000, which makes them a great deal considering they are only a few years old and still have a lot to offer.

Concerning the finest deal, which year

Recently, I paid roughly $10,000 for a 2013 SV with all the extras I desired. Any Leaf model made after April 2013 should function well, but the older the model year, the less expensive. A 2015 has the lizzard battery, which is said to be more robust than earlier models, so if you can find one used, do so. Right now, the 13s are probably still the most accessible.

A buying service is offered by What Car?

Before deciding whether an electric car fits into your lifestyle, it is worthwhile to take those factors into account. If so, the Leaf has to rank among the very best of them. It’s peaceful, cozy, and enjoyable to drive. While Leafs produced after this date have a somewhat harsher suspension configuration to improve stability at highway speeds, pre-2013 versions have a smoother ride around town.

Even a base model Leaf Visia comes with a good number of standard features, including air conditioning, Bluetooth, steering wheel-mounted radio controls, all-round electric windows, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, and keyless entry and start. However, equipment levels are generous.

If you can find one, we’d suggest the Acenta trim for a more well-rounded specification. It includes automatic lighting and wipers, cruise control, power-folding door mirrors, and a driver’s armrest. Additionally, you get a Nissan Connect EV and superior infotainment, along with plusher interior trim.

The best-spec Even a used sample of Tekna grade fetches a high price because it has many toys. This should only be chosen by individuals who are adamant about having every piece of equipment, including the top-of-the-line Bose audio system and heated leather seats all around.

The 2013 revisions also affected the interior because you could get a matt black dashboard instead of the previous cream one, which tended to look dirty unless you had a meticulous cleaning schedule. The matt black dashboard would reflect sunlight less than the earlier cream one. The front of the vehicle has plenty of room, but the steering wheel can only be adjusted up and down, making it difficult for certain people to achieve a comfortable driving posture. Although six-footers can fit in the back, the boot is on the tiny side for a family car and has a high lip that needs to be lifted over to load stuff.

Which should I purchase?

This mostly relies on your budget and how you want to use the vehicle. The 2013 model’s range is 124 miles, compared to the 2011 model’s 109 miles. Most consumers won’t require much more, and if you fall into that category, you’re in luck because they’re also the most affordable to purchase.

You’re better off saving your money unless you really require the 30kWh version with its 155-mile official range. Finding a model with the 6.6kW on-board charger, which was an option for older cars, is worthwhile because it cuts the charging time in half to four hours.

In terms of trim levels, we would steer clear of the earlier models because of how quickly their light-colored interiors become soiled. Nevertheless, they have the majority of amenities you may fairly expect, such as climate control, sat-nav, and 16-inch alloy wheels. Make sure the sat-nav is up to date if you intend to rely on it because most Leafs do not come equipped with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto as standard. Both metallic paint and a solar panel mounted on the rear spoiler were options. The majority of owners concur that its main function is to maintain the car’s 12v battery’s charge.

Models made after 2013 began with Visia trim, which we advise avoiding because it doesn’t have alloy wheels or an infotainment screen, making it more difficult to use some of the car’s functions. More importantly, the heater isn’t very efficient and there isn’t rapid charging.

Alloy wheels, a satellite navigation system, an energy-efficient heater, and a CHAdeMO socket—which enables the use of numerous public rapid chargers—were added to Acenta versions. Leather upholstery, LED headlights, a Bose audio upgrade, and bigger alloy wheels are added to Tekna variants.

What Nissan Leaf model is the best to buy?

The Nissan Leaf has established itself as one of the top new electric vehicles available. It has shown to be a fantastic used EV as well. What Nissan Leaf trim should you choose?

At $32,400, the Nissan Leaf S Plus is affordable. After tax breaks from the federal and municipal governments, this cost might be reduced to $25,400. Amazing value for a brand-new electric vehicle. Compared to the original model’s 147 horsepower, the Leaf S Plus has 214 horsepower.

On a single charge, the Nissan Leaf S Plus model’s range is 226 miles. Only 149 miles may be covered by the base model on a single charge. The finest Nissan Leaf trim is the S Plus because it offers more range and power than any other trim. It still cannot compete with more well-known new EVs like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, while being far more affordable to buy.

Is Nissan LEAF an old model?

The little electric car from Nissan will be discontinued “before mid-decade,” according to trade publication Automotive News on Thursday.

Why it matters: Early models like the Leaf failed to gain traction, despite the fact that electric vehicles are largely seen as the future of the auto industry (hello Tesla).

Rewind: The Leaf soon overtook all other EVs after making its debut in 2011.

  • However, it quickly lost the top spot to Tesla and fell short of Carlos Ghosn’s goal of selling 500,000 vehicles annually by 2013.
  • Of the 977,639 automobiles Nissan sold in the U.S. in 2021, just 14,239 copies of the Leaf were sold there.

Zoom out: The Leaf’s problems were caused by its short battery life and small size, with the 2011 model’s first iteration covering only 73 miles on a single charge.

  • The range increased over time, but Nissan has subsequently focused mostly on upcoming EVs, such as the stylish Ariya crossover.
  • The Leaf was victimized by shifting consumer demand for SUVs and pickups in the late 2010s as gas prices plummeted.

The Leaf is currently blowing in the wind, but EVs are far from being extinct.

Nissan LEAFs: Reliable or not?

This generation of Leaf received a high score of 98.6% in the reliability survey. Unfortunately, Nissan as a brand no longer enjoys the best reputation for dependability as it lags in 27th place out of 30 manufacturers, despite the fact that this is largely because of its conventional petrol and diesel vehicles.

What distinguishes the various Nissan LEAF models?

Only two types of the Leaf are currently available: the Leaf SV Plus, which has a larger battery pack and a longer driving range, and the base Leaf S, which has a smaller battery pack and a shorter driving range.

Is maintaining a Nissan Leaf expensive?

The annual auto maintenance costs for the Nissan Leaf come to $748. The table that follows provides a detailed ranking of each car in this overall scheme for comparison’s sake. The Nissan Leaf is significantly less expensive to maintain when compared to the average vehicle ($651 annually vs. $748 for the Nissan Leaf).

Why is the Nissan Leaf having issues?

The Nissan Leaf can only be used with specific charging stations because of its design.

Additionally, there have been numerous reports of charging incompatibility problems with Eaton chargers, particularly for the 2018 Leaf.

When did the Nissan LEAF receive a larger battery?

S, SV, and SL are the three main trim levels for the Nissan LEAFA. Nissan introduced the LEAFA Plus in 2019, a variant with a bigger, 62 kWh battery, an additional 75 miles of range, a larger motor, and more horsepower. Regardless of trim level, the Plus is offered.

The LEAFA’s lowest model, the S trim, now has capabilities like Apple or Android integration that were previously only available as upgrades or add-ons. Depending on the year, the SV, which is the mid-level choice, offers optional technology and driver assistance packages. The top-of-the-line LEAFA, the SLA, includes enhanced interior and comfort features as well as various SL options and LED headlights as standard equipment. While standard on the SL and SV trims, DCA rapid charging is an add-on option for the S trim. Nissan unveiled ProPilot Assist in 2019, a collection of driving aids that includes lane support, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian and collision warnings with automatic braking, and more.

What is the range of a Nissan Leaf?

A powerful electric car with a great price is the Nissan Leaf. Some of its standout features include intelligent keyless entry, push-button start, automated climate control, and a sophisticated navigation system. The optional 62kWh battery can power the LEAF for up to 226 kilometers on a single charge. There are several factors you need to take into account if you are a curious consumer and want to learn more about its charging time. You must be aware of the following!

Nissan LEAF batteries are available in two capacities: 40kWh and 62kWh. While the 40kWh has an estimated range of 150 miles, the 62kWh has a range of 226 miles. Choose the larger battery if your trip will be long. The 40kWh battery charges in 8 hours compared to 11.5 hours for the 62kWh battery.

The LEAF comes in a variety of battery sizes and charging configurations. A Level 1 charger is included with every LEAF. Despite being the slowest option, this one lets you plug into a regular wall socket. Faster charging times are provided by the Level 2 charger, which you may plug into a 240V power outlet for. The fastest charge times (40 minutes for an 80% charge for 40kWh batteries/60 minutes for an 80% charge for 62kWh batteries) are provided by the Quick Charge Level 3 charger, which is also available.

Depending on your needs, you could invest. A car with a smaller charger is ideal for shorter daily travels.

The battery for this LEAF has a great warranty. Nissan’s website states that the battery is covered for 96 months and 100,000 miles under the Nissan New Vehicle Warranty.

The cost of charging an electric vehicle is an important factor to take into account. Although charging costs can vary, generally speaking, a Nissan LEAF can be charged at a public charging station for around $5. The LEAF is a great option if you want to buy an electric car to save money.

An emission-free vehicle is the Nissan LEAF. It has many safety features, including six airbags, electronic braking force distribution anti-lock brakes, cruise control, and LATCH car seat hooks, in addition to an easy charging method. You should rely on a reputable Nissan dealership in your area for any assistance.

All incentives and offers are included in the price. The buyer is responsible for paying tax, title, and tags, which are not included in the car pricing listed. Admin fees totaling $669.27 are included in the cost. Dealer installed options are not included in the price. Despite our best efforts to assure the accuracy of the material on this site, mistakes can still happen. If in doubt, please check the information with a customer care representative. To get the mentioned price, mention this ad to the dealer.