2021 Nissan Leaf Review

The Nissan Leaf is one of the longest-running electric car nameplates, which helps explain why it’s the world’s second best-selling EV after the Tesla. The Leaf offers desirable features, great reliability and a range of up to 240 kilometers, which is enough for most everyday driving needs.  It competes with the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Tesla Model 3.

2021 Nissan Leaf NZ

2021 Nissan Leaf

Introduction

The Nissan Leaf is a battery-electric compact hatchback that was introduced in 2010 and has been in production for two generations. The first generation, known as the ZE0/AZE0, was produced from 2010 to 2016 and the second generation, known as the ZE1, has been in production from 2017 to the present.

Mechanically, the second generation Leaf is comparable to the first generation, although it has better range and performance. In terms of style, it is a significant departure from the previous model.

The second-generation Leaf has a range of up to 240 kilometres, more than most other electric cars at the time. The Leaf can be charged from a standard household socket, but can also be quickly recharged using a CHAdeMO fast charger.

The Nissan Leaf remains unchanged for 2021. However, it’s worth noting that Nissan has added to the range’s equipment over the past year. Front and rear automatic emergency braking, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, automatic high beams and lane departure warning are standard on all models.

Powertrain

The 2021 Nissan Leaf is powered by Nissan’s EM57 electric motor, which comes in two versions, the standard EM57-110kW and the optional EM57-160kW. The electric motor is powered by a 40 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

2021 Nissan Leaf Grades

  1. 2021 Nissan Leaf X– This is the base grade which comes with 15-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED tail lights, reversing camera, cloth seats, 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, automatic climate control, power windows and locks, keyless entry and push-button start, cruise control, lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking.
  2. 2021 Nissan Leaf G– This level comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, halogen headlights and taillights, black grille, black door mirrors and black rear spoiler, cloth seats, manually adjustable front seats, manual air conditioning, 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, four-speaker sound system and cruise control.
  3. 2021 Nissan Leaf XV Selection – This level comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, body-coloured rear spoiler, electrically heated mirrors, privacy glass, heated cloth seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth, reversing camera.
  4. 2021 Nissan Leaf Nismo– This is the top trim level that comes with unique front and rear bumpers with red accents, side skirts, black 18-inch alloy wheels, Nismo badge on front grille, rear bumper and side skirts, Nismo sports steering wheel, red stitching on seats, steering wheel and gear knob, Nismo logo on seats and floor mats and unique Nismo drive mode.

2021 Nissan Leaf Interior

The 2021 Nissan Leaf has a modern and spacious interior with room for five adults. The 2021 Nissan Leaf’s front seats are comfortable and supportive, with plenty of legroom and headroom. The driver’s seat is electrically adjustable and the steering wheel tilts and telescopes.
The 2021 Nissan Leaf’s rear seats are also comfortable and supportive, with enough legroom and headroom for two adults or three children.

2021 Nissan Leaf Cargo Space

The 2021 Nissan Leaf has 23.6 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 30.0 cubic feet with the seats folded.This is more cargo space than most other EVs and can accommodate groceries, a couple of golf bags or even a few pieces of luggage and a cooler for a weekend getaway.
2021 Nissan Leaf cargo space.

2021 Nissan Leaf cargo space.

2021 Nissan Leaf Exterior

The 2021 Nissan Leaf has a more traditional hatchback shape than the first-generation Leaf. It’s easy to tell it’s an EV because its front grille has no openings to let air in, and the angular styling really helps it cut through the air to maximize range.
The sides of the 2021 Leaf are relatively simple, with a smooth profile and few creases. The wheelbase is long, which gives the Leaf a spacious interior. It is also available in a variety of wheel sizes and designs.
The roof is finished off with a sporty spoiler that runs down into the tailgate and blends in with the stylish rear lights. There’s also a rear diffuser at the rear and, as an all-electric car, there are no exhaust outlets.

 

Safety features; reversing camera, front and rear collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high beams, rear door alert, adaptive cruise control, ProPilot assist, driver drowsiness monitoring, surround-view, parking camera system.

Performance

The 2021 Nissan Leaf is not the fastest EV on the market. However, it is still quite fast.It accelerates from 0-100km/h in 7.4 seconds, which is faster than most EVs.  The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride and it does a good job of absorbing bumps and potholes.
The 2021 Leaf also has electric power steering, which is easy to turn and gives good feedback. The brakes are smooth and most normal braking can be done by easing off the accelerator when the e-pedal mode is activated, which adds control and a bit of fun to everyday driving. The Leaf’s e-pedal feature allows the driver to switch between regenerative braking modes and another that slows the car down when you take your foot off the accelerator.
2021 Nissan Leaf odometre

2021 Nissan Leaf odometer

Reliability

The Nissan Leaf is generally regarded as a reliable EV. It has been on the market since 2010 and has undergone several updates and improvements over the years. Older Leaf models (pre-2017) had some reports of early battery degradation, but the newer models have addressed these issues and also offer a battery pack warranty of 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.
It is advisable to service and maintain your Leaf as you would any other car to extend its life and reliability.  We also recommend you read the Nissan Leaf Owner’s Manual and Buyer’s Guide if you own or plan to own a Nissan Leaf.

Pros

  • Quiet driving experience
  • Smooth acceleration
  • Long range

Cons

  • The rear seats don’t fold flat
  • Front-wheel drive only

Verdict

The 2021 Nissan Leaf may not be the most advanced, engaging, or luxurious EV on the market, but it remains a very compelling option for buyers looking for an affordable, reliable, fun-to-drive and environmentally friendly car. It offers ample cabin space, perfect for small families and suitable for city dwellers and commuters.
2021 Nissan Leaf side profile.

2021 Nissan Leaf side profile.