The Nissan Leaf will go down as one of the UK’s most important electric cars, being the first true mass-market EV and really helping sales of these models to grow significantly.
Now in its second generation, the Leaf boasts a longer range and more technology, yet retains its easy driving experience and everyday practicality. Though this Nissan might have to go up against far more rivals these days, it remains an appealing choice, especially where value for money is concerned.
Let’s take a look at what the 2023 Nissan Leaf has to offer.
What powertrains are available?
Nissan offers a choice of two powertrains on the Leaf – the standard car and a longer-range ‘e+’ model.
Starting with the entry-level option, this uses a 39kWh battery and an electric motor producing 148bhp and 320Nm of torque. Accelerating from 0-60mph takes 7.7 seconds, with the Leaf topping out at 90mph. Nissan also claims a range of up to 168 miles, while around an hour is needed to charge the battery from 20 to 80 per cent capacity.
If you want to go further on a charge, it’s the e+ model that you should choose. With this, Nissan claims a range of up to 239 miles, though it will take around 90 minutes even to rapid charge it. The e+ also packs a more powerful motor, which puts out 214bhp and 340Nm of torque, dropping the 0-60mph time to 6.7 seconds and raising the top speed to 98mph.
What trim levels are offered?
Nissan offers three trim levels on the Leaf – Acenta, N-Connecta and Tekna. Equipment highlights and prices are as follows.
Acenta – from £28,995
All Leaf models come with plenty of standard equipment, with even the entry-level version getting 16-inch black alloy wheels, a reversing camera and keyless entry. Further features include air conditioning, adaptive cruise control and an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
N-Connecta – from £30,495
Upgrading to the N-Connecta brings 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front and rear seats, along with a heated steering wheel. You also get automatic climate control, a heat pump and a larger touchscreen with in-built connected services and satellite navigation. Elsewhere, it comes with an around-view monitor, front and rear parking sensors and an intelligent driver alert.
Tekna – from £31,995
At the top of the line-up, the Tekna features full LED headlights and fog lights, along with part synthetic leather and ultrasuede seats. A Bose sound system is also included along with a semi-autonomous driving ProPilot pack, which includes lane keep assist and an electric parking brake.
What about personalisation?
The Leaf isn’t renowned for its personalisation, but there are plenty of opportunities to make the car your own. There are 10 colours on offer, with many of these available with a two-tone black roof. The brighter shades include Magnetic Blue, Ceramic Grey and Magnetic Red.
There aren’t too many optional extras available, but the main ones are a £195 spare tyre and semi-autonomous parking, which comes in at £795.
