- We tried the 2022 Nissan Leaf, which is the least expensive electric vehicle in the US.
- It costs $27,400, or perhaps as little as $20,000 after the $7,500 federal EV tax credit.
- Despite its alluringly low cost, you’ll have to give up some charging and range.
As they become more popular, electric automobiles are becoming less expensive, but they are still significantly more expensive than their gasoline-powered equivalents. According to Edmunds, the typical price paid for a battery-powered car increased beyond $60,000 in February.
There are nevertheless choices available for those wishing to go green on a tight budget. The Nissan Leaf is now the least expensive long-range electric vehicle available thanks to a price cut for the 2022 model.
To find out how much EV you get for $27,400, we put it to the test. Here are several reasons to buy the Leaf hatchback as well as some areas where it falls short.
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Cons
Released just recently: Starting at $27,800 (MSRP), with a test price of $37,400 Power: Front-wheel drive with a single motor 147 horsepower Battery capacity: 149–226 90 mph maximum ProPilot Assist is smart. Wireless Google Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
The 2022 Nissan Leaf doesn’t have the aesthetic appeal of other recognizable brands, but it has nevertheless established itself as a very well-liked electric vehicle. Nissan will be praising the heavens that the federal EV tax credit is about to be extended, even if it doesn’t have Tesla-level appeal.
When you offer an EV with a reasonable price, plenty of tech features, and good performance, that is what happens. The Leaf is not only one of the most affordable EVs on the market, second only to the recently reduced Chevy Bolt, but it also boasts a driving range of approximately 150 miles in that particular configuration.
We used the Nissan Leaf that was lent to us for just over two weeks. How simple it was to get going and start up impressed us. The 2022 Nissan Leaf is a fantastic, feature-rich entry point for anyone looking to purchase their first EV. It has a maximum range of 226 miles and is ideal for errands and local travel, while some people may find the lower 149-mile range choice insufficient.
Nissan has not hesitated to highlight the fact that the 2022 Leaf can be purchased for about $20,000. Some could counter that since the purchaser must redeem a possible $7,500 government tax credit, it’s not actually a $20K vehicle. And I do concur to some extent.
The 2022 Leaf is now one of the least expensive electric vehicles available for purchase in the United States, even though it is scheduled to be replaced by an all-electric Micra and a crossover SUV by 2025. The 2023 model is also coming, although there won’t be many modifications.
Aside from the debate over price, the Nissan Leaf is not a perfect EV. Although strong compared to other automakers, the lane assist and infotainment system falls well short of what companies like Tesla are putting in their vehicles.
Although some of the plastics can seem a little hollow to the touch, the inside quality is roughly on pace with the segment. Additionally, the exterior still has a squat gerbil-like appearance. Even so, the 2022 Nissan Leaf is a solid choice for the typical motorist seeking for a daily commuter.
No doubt. Congratulations, Nissan
Exactly. Customers of the first Leaf were remarkably devoted and pleased. They cherished the low operating expenses, ease of home charging, peace, and straightforward practicality. They also liked that it had five seats, a spacious boot, was simple to operate, and was reasonably priced. Nearly no one who has had an electric vehicle ever switches back to combustion.
However, the original Leaf had flaws. It was slow and underpowered in a time when Tesla garnered attention, if not sales dominance (though it got better with the 30kWh battery upgrade). It also appeared strange. The Leaf also required updates in these areas as all vehicles gained improved connection and driving assistance.
These are the promises made by the new Leaf. quicker, farther between charges, more attractive, and with more support. And costs have decreased across the board.
Why does the Nissan Leaf cost so little?
I therefore need a new automobile and would prefer an electric model, but I have limited funds. I was considering the Nissan Leaf and was taken aback by the price. Why are Nissan Leafs so reasonably priced?
In less than two minutes, find out if your auto insurance is being overcharged.
You’re right that making the switch to an electric vehicle is exciting.
Compared to other electric vehicles, the Nissan Leaf is significantly less expensive. Why, you inquire? Even though they are generally good automobiles, the Nissan Leaf doesn’t have the best reputation. Low battery range, depreciation, government subsidies, old technology, and a plain design are a few of the elements that contribute to the Leaf’s low pricing.
- Low battery range: The battery range on a new Leaf is just 80 to 100 miles per charge, and on a used Leaf, this decreases to about 50 miles per charge. Although the Leafas battery is less expensive to produce, its compact size means that it has significantly less power than other electric cars.
- Depreciation: The Leaf depreciates less frequently than the majority of other electric vehicles, which means it does so more slowly than more expensive vehicles. For instance, a Tesla typically depreciates by 20% over the first year of ownership.
- Government subsidies: Depending on the state you live in, there are a number of government subsidies and incentives available when buying a Leaf. These benefits lower the cost of purchasing the Leaf and enable quicker loan repayment.
- The Leaf may be inexpensive to purchase, but its technology hasn’t advanced much since it initially rolled off the assembly line in 2010, especially in comparison to the technological arms race being fought by other electric car manufacturers.
- Design: The Leaf isn’t a bad-looking car, but it isn’t sweeping up design accolades either. This may have contributed to the model’s poor sales and the subsequent price reductions.
Depending on your financial situation, a Nissan Leaf can be the ideal vehicle for you. Whatever you decide, make sure to use Jerry to find a strong auto insurance policy to cover your car.
This excellent vehicle insurance app can enable you sign up for your new policy and cancel your old one after just 45 seconds of registration!
Is the Nissan Leaf a trustworthy vehicle?
I adore the Nissan Leaf concept, but I’m surprised to never see one on the road. Are they simply unpopular or are they unreliable? I want to get one, but I worry that it will malfunction.
When compared to other electric vehicles now on the market, the Nissan Leaf is regarded as being quite dependable. When contrasted more broadly, the actual reliability ratings that the Leaf has received are rather ordinary.
The Leaf can be a great option if you’re expressly looking for an electric car. It is reasonably priced, reasonably dependable, and has a low yearly average cost of ownership.
The battery is the sole aspect of the Nissan Leaf that warrants caution. It’s advisable to purchase a new Leaf because used ones frequently have batteries that aren’t very reliable. As a result, your electric vehicle’s battery has a lifespan of only 100,000 to 150,000 miles before you all have to spend money installing a new battery.
The Jerraay app can assist you in finding an insurance plan if you’re still determined to purchase a Leaf. By doing this, you can reduce the amount of money your insurance company charges you and use that money for battery replacement and maintenance. The typical user saves $887 yearly!
Is it expensive to repair the Nissan LEAF?
With a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5, the Nissan LEAF is ranked third among all alternative fuel vehicles. It has typical ownership costs with an average annual repair cost of $748.
Is repairing the Nissan LEAF expensive?
The Nissan LEAF is rated third out of four alternative fuel vehicles with a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0. Its typical ownership expenses are determined by the $748 average annual repair cost.
How long is the lifespan of a Nissan Leaf?
The 24 or 30 kWh battery used in the first generation Leafs has a maximum range of 100,000–150,000 miles. The second version has a battery that can go 200,000–300,000 miles and weighs 40–66 kWh. We anticipate that the Leaf will last between 10 and 15 years because batteries also deteriorate with time.
Will the Nissan Leaf debut in 2023?
The 60 kWh lithium-ion battery and the 160 kW electric motor in the 2023 Nissan LEAF SV PLUS combine to provide 214 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. Closer to introduction, the EPA range estimates for both models will be available, however range is anticipated to be comparable to vehicles from 2022.
Is a tax credit available for the Nissan LEAF?
The tax credit varies depending on the size and battery capacity of your electric car and is available both at the state and federal levels. The potential federal tax credit for Nissan LEAF is $7,500. Will the electric vehicle tax credits expire? Yes
How frequently do Nissan Leaf batteries need to be replaced?
How frequently should a Nissan Leaf battery be changed? Every three to five years, but to ensure that it’s performing at a high level, you should have your battery tested naturally for voltage drops.