The Nissan Leaf was an early entrant in the electric vehicle (EV) space and remains on sale today as a value-forward, useful car. However, the marketplace has changed significantly since the Leaf's inception, putting the car's short-ish range under the microscope. Even so, the current Leaf features a lower price and good standard features, making it a compelling choice for value-conscious EV buyers.
For the 2023 model year, the Leaf EV gets a mild update with fresh exterior styling, retaining its hatchback body style. The car's interior remains unchanged, so there are plenty of competitors with nicer cabin accommodations.
Nissan showed the refreshed 2023 Leaf at the 2022 New York International Auto Show for the first time. The car goes on sale this summer.
Nissan updates the Leaf for 2023 with a new grille and bumper molding. Changes include a new grille and fresh headlight design, an illuminated Nissan badge, and reshaped tire deflectors for better aerodynamics. The top SV Plus trim gets 17-inch 5-spoke wheels.
Nissan says the updates give the Leaf a more refined, grown-up look than its predecessor. Nissan's signature split C-pillar design is here, which gives the Leaf's roof a unique floating look, especially in lighter colors where the dark pillar shade sticks out.
The only updates to the 5-passenger Leaf's interior are a new badge on the steering wheel and new animation that plays on in the gauge cluster on startup. The interior is otherwise unchanged, which means plenty of black plastic and standard cloth upholstery. Overall build quality and construction are solid, so the space doesn't feel chintzy. Light grey leather is available, which breaks up the otherwise dark interior.
The Leaf offers exceptionally comfortable seats, and the rear bench is surprisingly spacious. The car's tall roof brings solid head room, and there's still plenty of cargo space leftover in the back. The rear seats fold to open the space further, but they don't lay completely flat.
The 2023 Nissan Leaf S comes with a 40-kWh battery and a 110-kW electric motor. Combined output lands at 147 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. The Leaf SV Plus gets a larger 60-kWh battery and a 160-kW motor that combine for 214 hp and 250 pound-feet of torque. All 2023 Leaf EVs come with front-wheel drive and a single-speed transmission.
For 2022, the Leaf received a standard CHAdeMO charging port, which means a much faster charging time than before. According to Nissan, owners can charge the Leaf using 120- or 240-volt outlets at home, but the 120-volt connection takes so long to replenish range that it's far from a practical solution. The car can recharge in around seven hours using a 240-volt outlet.
Nissan notes that the EPA hasn't yet certified the new Leaf's range numbers, but it says the car should fall close to its predecessor. That should mean a total range of up to 226 miles for the top trim level and 149 miles for the base model. The SV Plus trim returns around 94 MPGe, according to the EPA.
The 2023 Leaf comes standard with Nissan's ProPilot Assist safety system. Nissan also adds a full suite of standard advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) that includes:
The 2023 Leaf retains the tech features of its predecessor. Standard kit includes an 8-inch touchscreen, four speakers, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The top trim adds two more speakers, navigation, and app functionality. Nissan includes a telematics system with the top trim that brings battery monitoring, state-of-charge information, and the ability to activate climate controls. The package comes as a no-cost subscription.
The 2023 Nissan Leaf may be short on range compared to most rivals, but the car offers excellent value. Its competitors include the Chevrolet Bolt and Bolt EUV, Kia EV6, Mini Cooper Electric, and even the Tesla Model 3.
Nissan is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of April 12, 2022, but it may have changed since that date. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker's website or your local dealership.
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