The 2nd generation 2018 Nissan LEAF is the 5th best-selling all-electric vehicle in the U.S. and enters the 2018 electric vehicle market with more driving range, more horsepower, and new e-Pedal and ProPILOT Assist systems. This redesigned compact hatchback has aggressive new styling all around as well as new technology features, but with lower sticker prices. The electric motor is rated at 147 horsepower which is a considerable improvement from the previous models 107. The LEAF's EPA-rated 151-mile driving range pales in comparison to the 238-mile range on the Chevrolet Bolt. But then again it's also around $5,600 cheaper than the Bolt. So it begs the question; Is another 80-90 miles of driving range worth 5 grand to you? It takes about 35 hours to fully recharge the battery with a 120-volt “Level 1” hookup, and about 7.5 hours when plugged into a 240-volt “Level 2” feed. The “e-Pedal” feature dials in aggressive regenerative-braking which enables the driver to be able to start, accelerate, decelerate, or even stop depending on how the accelerator pedal is used. When the pedal is released all the way, regenerative and friction brakes are applied automatically. If the driver times things right, the car will come to a complete stop without need of the brake pedal. Then the LEAF holds its position until the accelerator is pressed again. The holding action works on slopes too. Included within the optional Technology Package is a faint whiff of autonomous driving known as ProPILOT Assist. This feature automatically maintains speed and distance from a car ahead and can even make a full stop when necessary. It will also keep the car neatly centered in its lane so long as the driver maintains a minimal grip on the wheel. What ProPILOT Assist does is absolutely clear. Nissan calls it a “driving assistance technology” but it has considerable limits.
The LEAF has lively overall throttle response, nimble handling, an almost-plush interior, and upgraded technology. Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is included in the SV and SL; so is NissanConnect telematics which has the ability to connect to the vehicle via a smartphone to remotely check battery charge level, lock or unlock the doors, turn on the heat, and locate the car in a crowded lot. LEAF comes in 3 flavors; S ($31,000), SV ($33,500), and SL ($37,000).
It's a peppy little commuter car that's good for the planet (YES I do care about that!). Plus...it finally doesn't look like a frog, it has a somewhat kickass BOSE sound system, and enough technology features to be able to hold its own amongst it's peers.
One Down Side...
Choosing an all-electric vehicle means a total lifestyle change. If you are the type of person who hates change...do not ever consider an electric vehicle as your daily transportation.
Re-design for the 2018 model year.
TEST VEHICLE = 2018 Nissan LEAF SL
Scarlet Ember
Black Leather Seats
147 hp Electric Vehicle
1-speed Automatic
BASE PRICE = $37,000 including destination fees
PRICE AS TESTED = $38,500 including options
e-MPG = 151 miles
COMPETITION = Ford Focus EV.............$30,000
Chevrolet Bolt EV........ $37,500
Hyundai IONIQ EV.........$30,500
COLORS = Glacier White
Pearl White
Jade Frost
Deep Blue Pearl
Scarlet Ember
Brilliant Silver
Gun
Super Black
Scarlet Ember
Black Leather Seats
147 hp Electric Vehicle
1-speed Automatic
BASE PRICE = $37,000 including destination fees
PRICE AS TESTED = $38,500 including options
e-MPG = 151 miles
COMPETITION = Ford Focus EV.............$30,000
Chevrolet Bolt EV........ $37,500
Hyundai IONIQ EV.........$30,500
COLORS = Glacier White
Pearl White
Jade Frost
Deep Blue Pearl
Scarlet Ember
Brilliant Silver
Gun
Super Black
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