Nissan LEAF Overview

The Nissan Leaf is the 2011 World Car of the Year. As opposed to Toyota's Prius or Chevy's Volt, there's no internal combustion element to the Leaf. Power comes from a 340-volt battery back and a 107HP electric motor, which gives the little five-door an estimated range of 100 miles. Obviously, if it's being driven by a lead foot carrying three sumo wrestlers, uphill, at top speed, those factors will impact the range. From a standard outlet, a recharge will take roughly eight hours, and buyers who want a faster time can opt to install a special charging station in their garage, which will run an additional $2200. The most remarkable thing about a the Leaf is that other than the fact that it's an electric vehicle, the most important thing reviewers said about it is how much like a regular car it is. It has all the creature comforts we've come to expect from a driving appliance without the fossil fuel guilt. Though if you see the MSRP for the Leaf is $32,780, before a Federal Tax Credit of $7500.