2023 Nissan Leaf Review | The Cheapest Electric Car!
Pricing
The 2023 Nissan Leaf comes in two trim levels, namely the S and the SV Plus. The S trim level starts at a pocket-friendly price of $28,040, while the SV Plus is priced at $36,040. Despite the affordability, these trim levels offer different power plants for an enhanced driving experience.
Power and Performance
The S trim level is equipped with a 40 kilowatt electric motor, which generates 147 horsepower and 236 pound feet of torque. This electric motor sends power to the front wheels, resulting in a remarkable 0 to 60 time of approximately 7.4 seconds. The S trim level also boasts a range of 149 miles on a single charge and can charge from zero to eighty percent in just an hour.
On the other hand, the SV Plus trim level takes power to the next level with a 60 kilowatt electric motor. This powerful motor produces 214 horsepower and 250 pound feet of torque, delivering an impressive 0 to 60 time of approximately 6.5 seconds. With a range of 212 miles, the SV Plus trim level offers a longer journey on every charge.
Driving Experience
In terms of acceleration, the 2023 Nissan Leaf does not disappoint. With its responsive electric motors, both trim levels offer quick and efficient acceleration, making every drive a thrilling experience. The car effortlessly reaches highway speeds and provides a smooth and controlled ride throughout.
The Leaf’s braking system is also noteworthy, delivering precise stopping power. Whether for sudden stops or gradual braking, the Leaf’s brakes offer a consistent and reliable performance, enhancing overall safety.
Steering and Ride Quality
The steering of the 2023 Nissan Leaf is precise and responsive, allowing for easy maneuvering in various driving conditions. Whether navigating through tight city streets or cruising on open highways, the Leaf’s steering system ensures a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.
Furthermore, the ride quality of the Leaf is commendable. With its advanced suspension system, the car absorbs road imperfections effectively while providing a comfortable and cushioned ride. Whether encountering potholes or rough surfaces, the Leaf maintains stability and minimizes discomfort for both the driver and passengers.
Entertainment System
Inside the 2023 Nissan Leaf, you’ll find a well-designed sound system that offers an immersive audio experience. Whether enjoying upbeat music or tuning into your favorite podcast, the Leaf’s sound system delivers crisp and clear sound quality, enhancing your driving pleasure.
Acceleration and Torque
The 2023 Nissan Leaf, specifically the less powerful S model, delivers impressive acceleration that is perfect for maneuvering through busy city streets. The electric car showcases its agility, going from zero to 67.5 in a jiffy. What sets electric vehicles apart is the instant torque they provide, making them feel faster than their gasoline-powered counterparts. The quick acceleration of the Leaf is bound to bring a smile to your face, especially when you experience the exhilarating feeling of being pushed back into your seat.
Braking Capability
Complementing the Leaf’s impressive acceleration is its equally important braking capability. The vehicle comes equipped with standard four-wheel ventilated disc brakes, ensuring efficient and effective braking performance. Braking from 60 mph to zero takes a mere 121 feet, demonstrating the Leaf’s ability to bring you to a complete stop safely and quickly.
E-Pedal for One-Pedal Driving
For an enhanced driving experience, the 2023 Nissan Leaf offers an innovative feature called the e-pedal. Located just in front of the shifter, this button enables one-pedal driving mode. Engaging the e-pedal allows you to control both acceleration and braking with just one pedal, simplifying the driving process. By simply releasing the accelerator, the Leaf will come to a complete stop, eliminating the need to switch between pedals in stop-and-go traffic. However, it’s worth noting that the e-pedal is optional, and you can still operate the Leaf like a traditional car if desired.
While the 2023 Nissan Leaf excels in acceleration and braking, it’s important to remember that these features are just a part of what makes this electric car appealing. Its affordability, efficiency, and eco-friendliness further contribute to its appeal as the cheapest electric car option available. The Leaf offers a compelling choice for those looking to transition to electric vehicles without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for a practical and cost-effective city commuter or simply want to reduce your carbon footprint, the 2023 Nissan Leaf is a worthy contender in the electric car market.
The Innovative E Pedal Drive Mode
One of the standout features of the 2023 Nissan Leaf is its unique e pedal drive mode. Unlike other electric cars, the Leaf allows you to come to a complete stop without ever touching the brakes. This gradual, seamless stop not only enhances the driving experience but also helps to save on brake pads. It’s a cool feature that not all electric cars have, making the Leaf even more enticing for potential buyers.
Suspension and Handling
In terms of suspension and handling, the 2023 Nissan Leaf doesn’t disappoint. With an independent strut type front suspension and a torsion beam rear axle, this electric car offers a smooth and comfortable ride. During my short test drive, I found the ride quality to be impressively good. The Leaf effortlessly absorbed the imperfections of the road, providing a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.
A Quiet and Luxurious Cabin
One of the undeniable advantages of electric cars is their lack of engine noise, and the Nissan Leaf is no exception. The absence of engine noise and the effective insulation results in a cabin that is remarkably quiet. There is no wind noise or road noise to disturb the tranquility inside the Leaf. In fact, I would go as far as to say that the cabin noise level is comparable to that of a luxury car. Nissan has truly excelled in creating a serene and peaceful environment for both the driver and passengers.
Steering Feel and Weight
When it comes to steering feel, the 2023 Nissan Leaf offers a slightly looser experience compared to other electric cars on the market. Many electric cars, particularly those from Tesla, have a heavier steering feel. While the Leaf’s lighter steering does not detract from the overall driving experience, I personally would have appreciated a bit more weight and responsiveness in the steering. However, this is a matter of personal preference, and some drivers may actually prefer the lighter feel.
In , the 2023 Nissan Leaf is a standout option for those looking to embrace electric car technology without breaking the bank. Its innovative e pedal drive mode, impressive suspension and handling, quiet cabin, and comfortable steering make it a compelling choice in the market. Whether you’re a seasoned electric car enthusiast or new to the world of electric vehicles, the Leaf offers an affordable and enjoyable driving experience that is hard to resist.
The Performance of the 2023 Nissan Leaf
Now, let’s dive into the performance segment of this 2023 Nissan Leaf review. First things first, it’s important to note that the Leaf is not as heavy as a Tesla. While this may not necessarily be a negative aspect, it is worth mentioning for comparison purposes. However, when it comes to visibility, the Leaf does not disappoint. I can clearly see a Tesla in my rear view mirror without any issues. So, rest assured that visibility will not be a problem with this car.
The Exterior Design
Moving on to the exterior of the 2023 Nissan Leaf, let’s start with the color. The one we have here is finished in a sleek gun metallic shade. It’s always interesting to know the name of the exterior color, and for this model, it’s definitely an eye-catching option.
When it comes to where the Leaf is made, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s built and assembled in the U.S, specifically Tennessee. This is the final assembly point, which makes it a great option for those who prefer to support local manufacturing.
Since this is an electric vehicle, there is no front grille. However, the design of the front is quite unique and cool. There are little shapes located within the front grille, giving the Leaf a distinct look. It’s something you won’t find on any other vehicle, which adds to its appeal. Additionally, the charging port is placed above the Nissan logo, another unconventional feature you don’t often see in other electric cars.
The Interior Features
Now let’s move on to the interior of the 2023 Nissan Leaf. The first thing you’ll notice is the ample space and comfortable seating. The Leaf can comfortably accommodate both driver and passengers, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable ride.
When it comes to technology, the 2023 Nissan Leaf is packed with features. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a user-friendly infotainment system. The touchscreen display is responsive and provides easy access to various functions, such as navigation, music, and connectivity options.
Safety is also a priority in the Leaf. It comes equipped with advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. These features contribute to a safer driving experience, providing peace of mind for both the driver and passengers.
The Driving Experience
Now, let’s talk about the driving experience of the 2023 Nissan Leaf. As an electric car, the Leaf offers a smooth and quiet ride. The instant torque from the electric motor provides quick acceleration, making merging onto highways and overtaking other vehicles a breeze.
Thanks to its electric powertrain, the Leaf boasts impressive fuel efficiency. You can expect to cover a significant distance on a single charge, which is a major advantage for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and save on fuel costs.
In terms of handling, the Leaf offers a nimble and responsive experience. It handles corners well and provides a comfortable ride over various road surfaces. The regenerative braking system also adds to the driving experience by capturing and utilizing energy that would have been lost during braking.
The Price
Let’s talk about the price of the 2023 Nissan Leaf. As the title suggests, it is considered one of the cheapest electric cars on the market. This makes it an attractive option for
The Front End
Halogen headlights come standard on the base model of the 2023 Nissan Leaf. However, if you opt for the SV Plus trim level, you’ll be treated to LED headlights with LED daytime running lights. One notable feature is the automatic high beams, available on both trim levels. When driving at night with your high beams on, the sensors detect oncoming vehicles and automatically dim the lights to low beams. Once the vehicle passes, the lights revert to high beams. It’s a pretty impressive feature that adds convenience and safety to your night drives. Additionally, the SV Plus trim level also includes fog lights, which are not present on the base model.
The Side Profile
Moving on to the side of the 2023 Nissan Leaf, you’ll notice the black window surrounds, adding a sleek touch to the overall design. The floating roofline towards the back, specifically on the C-pillar, is highlighted in black. This visual element helps to differentiate the roofline from the rest of the body, adding a touch of uniqueness to the car. Chrome door handles come standard on both trim levels, giving the exterior a touch of elegance. Body color power-adjustable side mirrors are also standard, but if you opt for the SV Plus trim level, they will also come with heating functionality.
Wheels
Now, let’s take a closer look at the wheels of the 2023 Nissan Leaf. The specific details about the wheels are not mentioned in the provided content, so we will have to rely on additional information or wait for more specifications to be released. However, we can assume that the wheels will be stylish and well-designed, complementing the overall aesthetics of the car. They will not only provide a smooth and comfortable ride but will also enhance the overall look of the 2023 Nissan Leaf.
In , the 2023 Nissan Leaf offers some exciting exterior features. From the sleek and convenient halogen headlights to the LED headlights with automatic high beams and fog lights available on the SV Plus trim level, the front end of the car is undeniably impressive. The side profile showcases black window surrounds, a floating roofline, and chrome door handles, adding a touch of sophistication. The wheels, although not described in detail in the provided content, are expected to be stylish and perfectly suited to the overall design of the 2023 Nissan Leaf. With its affordable price tag and attractive exterior, the 2023 Nissan Leaf is truly a standout electric car option.
Exterior Design
The 2023 Nissan Leaf boasts a sleek and modern exterior design that will surely turn heads on the road. The S trim comes with 16-inch steel wheels with covers, while the SV Plus features 17-inch aluminum alloys. Overall, the side profile of the Leaf is well-rounded and visually appealing. Moving towards the back, you’ll notice the body-colored shark fin antenna sitting atop the rear spoiler. Just below it, there is an integrated brake light and a rear window wiper. Interestingly, the 2023 model has done away with the zero emission badging and trim level badging at the back. Whether it’s a good or bad change is subjective, but it’s definitely a minor alteration. Lastly, the rear of the Leaf features a cool-looking rear diffuser in the center, enhancing its overall aesthetic. Since it is an electric vehicle, there is no exhaust, as expected.
Interior Features
Now, let’s shift our focus to the interior of the 2023 Nissan Leaf. When it comes to opening the rear liftgate, it is quite easy and convenient. You’ll find sufficient cargo space, allowing you to haul your belongings without any hassle. The Leaf offers a comfortable and spacious cabin, providing ample legroom and headroom for both the driver and passengers. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, making long journeys more enjoyable. The inclusion of high-quality materials and modern finishes enhances the overall look and feel of the interior. Additionally, the Leaf is equipped with various tech features, including a user-friendly infotainment system, a responsive touchscreen, and smartphone integration options. It’s safe to say that the 2023 Nissan Leaf delivers a pleasant and comfortable interior experience.
Performance and Efficiency
One of the key highlights of the 2023 Nissan Leaf is its impressive performance and efficiency. As an electric vehicle, the Leaf offers instant acceleration and a smooth, quiet ride. It is powered by a capable electric motor that delivers ample power for daily commuting and city driving. The regenerative braking feature helps recharge the battery while you brake, maximizing efficiency and range. Speaking of range, the Leaf offers a respectable range that is suitable for most daily driving needs. With its efficient electric drivetrain, the Leaf ensures that you can enjoy a greener and more sustainable driving experience.
Safety and Technology
When it comes to safety, the 2023 Nissan Leaf is equipped with a host of advanced safety features. These include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert, among others. These safety technologies not only provide peace of mind but also work towards preventing accidents and promoting safer driving. In terms of technology, the Leaf comes with an array of innovative features that enhance convenience and connectivity. From the intelligent key system to the available NissanConnect services, the Leaf ensures that you stay connected and in control, no matter where you go.
Cargo Capacity and Interior Features
The 2023 Nissan Leaf comes with a manual liftgate for both trim levels. Opening up the liftgate reveals a spacious cargo capacity of 23.6 cubic feet. If that’s not enough space, the rear seats can be folded down in a 60/40 split, increasing the cargo capacity to an even 30 cubic feet. There is also cargo lighting in the back, ensuring visibility even in low-light conditions.
The cargo cover is an optional feature, allowing you to keep your belongings hidden and protected. Additionally, there is a convenient hook for hanging the charging cables that come with the Leaf. This practical feature allows you to keep the cables organized and easily accessible.
Rear Legroom and Convenience
Moving on to the rear seating area, the 2023 Nissan Leaf offers a comfortable amount of legroom with 33.5 inches of space. As a reference, even someone who is six feet tall will have ample room in the back. While there is no rear center armrest, the presence of cup holders on the floor compensates for it. There is also a small rubberized storage area in front of the cup holders, providing a convenient spot to place small items.
Although there is no rear ventilation, Nissan has included dual rear USB charging ports. This feature ensures that your rear passengers, including children, can easily keep their tablets or smartphones charged during the journey. It’s a thoughtful addition that enhances the overall convenience and usability of the Leaf.
Front Seating Comfort and Features
Moving to the front seats, the 2023 Nissan Leaf offers manually adjustable cloth seating. The S trim level comes with this standard seating option. However, if you opt for the SV trim level, you will enjoy an 8-way power driver seat with 2-way power lumbar support. This feature allows you to find the most comfortable position for your journey. Additionally, the SV trim level includes heated front seats, providing added comfort during colder weather.
Overall, the 2023 Nissan Leaf offers a practical and comfortable interior. Its cargo capacity and storage options, along with rear passenger amenities, make it a versatile and user-friendly electric car. Whether you’re running errands or going on a road trip, the Leaf provides ample space and convenience for your needs. With its affordable price point, the 2023 Nissan Leaf is indeed the cheapest electric car option available.
Manually Adjustable Seats
To my surprise, the S trim level of the 2023 Nissan Leaf features manually adjustable seats. Despite my initial skepticism, I found them to be perfectly comfortable. I didn’t encounter any issues with them, which was a pleasant surprise.
The Steering Wheel
Taking a look at the steering wheel, it is both tilt and telescoping adjustable. The SV trim level comes with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, which is also heated. I particularly like the flat bottom design of the steering wheel. It adds a unique and cool design element to the overall look and feel.
Startup and Keyless Entry
Moving on to the startup process, let me show you the key. The key is compact and neatly designed, with all the buttons located on one side. The Nissan logo sits at the top, followed by the lock and unlock buttons. There is also a button to unlock the charging ports up front. However, the keyless entry feature allows you to start the car with the push of a button, without the need for the physical key. All you have to do is put your foot on the brake, bring your phone close to the car, and press the engine start button, which is situated in front of the shifter and other buttons.
Digital Cluster
Once the car is started, you’ll notice a seven-inch digital cluster located on the left side. It features a speedometer display on the right side. The content of the digital cluster can be adjusted using the steering wheel-mounted controls on the left side. You can view various driving statistics, such as the range of miles left before running out of battery, outside temperature (64 degrees today), battery temperature, Eco power driving statistics, and the current time. This comprehensive digital cluster provides all the necessary information you need while driving.
Interior Quality
During my review, I paid close attention to the overall interior quality of the 2023 Nissan Leaf.
Comfort and Convenience
The 2023 Nissan Leaf comes equipped with several comfort and convenience features. One notable feature is the overhead sunglass holder, which provides a convenient place to store your sunglasses. Additionally, the vehicle offers automatic climate control as a standard feature, allowing you to easily set and maintain a desired temperature.
Shifter Design
The shifter in the 2023 Nissan Leaf stands out from traditional shifters found in other vehicles. It features a unique blue accent, adding a touch of style to the interior. To shift into drive, you simply slide the shifter to the left and down. Shifting into reverse requires sliding the shifter to the left and up. Neutral is located directly to the left, and to park the vehicle, you just need to press the silver part of the shifter. The contrasting blue stitching on the front of the shifter adds to the overall aesthetic appeal.
Interior Features
The interior of the 2023 Nissan Leaf offers a range of convenient features. The blue contrast stitching can be found on the doors and seats, giving the cabin a stylish look. The e-pedal button and Eco driving mode provide additional options for optimizing energy efficiency. There is also a rubberized storage area, dual phone charging ports, and a 12-volt power outlet located behind the shifter. Cup holders and a small storage area within the center armrest add to the vehicle’s practicality.
Interior Design and Infotainment System
The 2023 Nissan Leaf comes with a mix of materials in its interior, including some hard plastics. However, considering the price point of the car, it is not all that bad. The overall design is pretty much as expected, with no major surprises. One notable feature is the eight-inch color touchscreen display, which is standard across all models. The infotainment system includes Bluetooth and audio streaming capabilities. Additionally, the Leaf offers Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, along with a factory navigation system. If you opt for the SV trim level, you can also access your radio information on the screen.
Sound System
The sound system in the 2023 Nissan Leaf varies depending on the trim level. The base model, S, comes with a four-speaker setup, while the SV trim level offers a six-speaker system. In terms of sound quality, it is important to note that the four-speaker system delivers what you would expect from a budget car. The bass is decent, but overall clarity is average. It is more suitable for listening to podcasts or basic audio. If you are an audiophile, you may find the sound system lacking, but for everyday use, it gets the job done.
Reverse View and Safety Features
When you put the 2023 Nissan Leaf in reverse, you will be greeted with a rearview camera, which is a standard feature in all trims. This camera provides assistance while backing up and helps prevent accidents by alerting pedestrians with a chime sound. Since the Leaf is an electric vehicle, it is crucial for people walking behind to be aware of the car’s movement. Moreover, the SV trim level also offers a 360-degree monitor, providing a comprehensive view of the surroundings for enhanced safety.
In , while the 2023 Nissan Leaf may have some drawbacks, such as the presence of hard plastics in the interior and average sound quality, it still stands as one of the cheapest electric cars on the market. The inclusion of an eight-inch color touchscreen, infotainment features like Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay, and safety features like a rearview camera and 360-degree monitor make the Leaf a practical and accessible choice for those wanting to join the electric revolution without breaking the bank.
Safety Features
In terms of safety, the 2023 Nissan Leaf certainly delivers. It comes equipped with front side airbags and airbags for both the driver and passenger knees. Additionally, it includes latch systems for children’s car seats, rear child door locks, and a high-pressure monitoring system. But it doesn’t stop there. The Leaf also boasts several advanced safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, intelligent lane intervention, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear automatic braking, and intelligent trace control. This comprehensive range of safety features ensures that you can have peace of mind while driving the Leaf.
Affordability
When it comes to pricing, the 2023 Nissan Leaf truly stands out. In fact, it is currently the most affordable electric car available in the United States. If you opt for the base S trim level and take advantage of the $7,500 tax credit (which is still in effect at the time of writing), you can drive away with a Leaf for just $20,540. This price point puts the Leaf on par with popular gas-powered vehicles like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla. So, if you’ve been hesitant about switching to an electric car due to cost concerns, the Leaf proves that affordability is not an issue.
Performance
The 2023 Nissan Leaf also delivers impressive performance. Its acceleration is noticeably quick, which is a common trait among electric vehicles. What sets the Leaf apart is its one-pedal drive system, which allows for smooth deceleration and regenerative braking. This feature is not commonly found as a standard in all electric cars, making the Leaf stand out even further.
In , the 2023 Nissan Leaf is not only the most affordable electric car on the market, but it also offers a range of advanced safety features and impressive performance. With its attractive price point and reliable performance, the Leaf is a compelling option for those considering switching to electric vehicles. Don’t let the misconception that electric cars are unaffordable deter you from exploring the Leaf as a viable and accessible mode of transportation. So, if you’re in the market for an electric car that doesn’t break the bank, the 2023 Nissan Leaf is definitely worth considering.
Saving Money with One Pedal Drive
One of the standout features of the 2023 Nissan Leaf is its one pedal drive system. This innovative technology not only provides a unique driving experience but also saves you money in the long run. With one pedal drive, you no longer need to constantly hit the brakes, which means you won’t have to spend money on changing brake pads or resurfacing rotors. This translates into significant cost savings, making the Leaf a budget-friendly option.
Less Range, but Lower Price
While the Leaf might have less range compared to some of its competitors, it comes at a significantly lower price. If you’re in the market for a more affordable electric car, the Leaf is definitely a solid option. It’s important to consider that if you want more range, you’ll have to be willing to pay a higher price. But if budget is a priority for you, the Leaf’s range is more than sufficient for everyday use.
Interior Quality and Sound System
Due to its affordability, it’s understandable that the interior quality of the 2023 Nissan Leaf might not be the best in its class. However, this compromise is to be expected at its price point. While the materials used might not be premium, they are still durable and functional. The same can be said for the sound system, which is more basic compared to other higher-end models. If you’re not overly concerned about luxurious details, the Leaf’s interior and sound system are perfectly adequate.
Share Your Thoughts
Have you had a chance to experience the new Leaf? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Let us know what you think of its features, performance, and overall value for money. Your feedback can help other potential buyers make an informed decision. Stay connected with us on social media for updates on upcoming content before it hits YouTube. If you enjoy new car reviews, don’t forget to subscribe and hit the bell notification button. Thank you for watching, and we appreciate your support.
The 2023 Nissan Leaf is undoubtedly an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable electric car. With its competitive pricing, impressive power and performance, comfortable ride quality, and entertaining sound system, the Leaf exceeds expectations. Moreover, its eco-friendly nature and zero-emission electric powertrain make it an ideal option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. So, if you are searching for a budget-friendly electric car, the 2023 Nissan Leaf is definitely worth considering.
The 2023 Nissan Leaf is undeniably a compelling option when it comes to affordable electric cars. With its stylish design, comfortable interior, impressive performance, and advanced safety and technology features, the Leaf offers excellent value for its price. If you’re in the market for an electric vehicle that is budget-friendly without compromising on quality or performance, the 2023 Nissan Leaf should definitely be on your
With its emphasis on comfort and convenience, the 2023 Nissan Leaf proves to be a practical choice for those seeking an affordable electric car. The inclusion of features such as automatic climate control and the unique shifter design adds to the overall appeal of the vehicle. Whether you’re looking for a vehicle that offers eco-friendly driving options or simply a comfortable and convenient ride, the 2023 Nissan Leaf delivers.
