What's New
The 2023 Nissan LEAF EV wears new front and rear fascias for a slightly more aggressive appearance. Badging is updated throughout to reflect Nissan's latest brand identity. Last year's line-topping SL is no more, but its extended-range powertrain is now standard on the SV. The current LEAF debuted in 2018.
Choosing Your Nissan LEAF
The LEAF now comes in just two trim levels: S and SV Plus. Pricing for the S starts at $28,895 including destination, and the SV Plus is priced at $36,895.
Buyers are eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 subject to income limits.
Engine Choices
The LEAF S carries an electric motor fed by a 40 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The SV Plus receives a larger, more powerful motor and a 62 kWh battery for a longer range. With either motor, power goes to the front wheels through a single-speed automatic transmission.
Nissan says that a fully depleted battery can be charged to 80 percent in about 45 minutes at a DC fast charging station. On a 240-volt home charger, a full recharges takes eight hours for the S and 11.5 hours for the SV Plus.
Engine Type | Horsepower | Torque | Range |
Electric Motor | 147 hp | 235 lb-ft | 149 miles |
Electric Motor | 214 hp | 250 lb-ft | 215 miles |
Passenger and Cargo Capacity
The LEAF is a compact hatchback with room for five and 23.6 cubic feet of cargo. The LEAF can carry a lot more stuff than a sedan, but it's no substitute for a crossover. With the rear seat folded, cargo space increases only modestly to 30 cubic feet.
Safety Features
The LEAF starts off with lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high beams, and front and rear automatic emergency braking. Stepping up to the SV Plus brings surround-view cameras and adaptive cruise control with lane centering.
Connectivity
The infotainment system for the LEAF S includes an 8-inch touchscreen, four speakers, four USB ports, satellite radio, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The SV gets two more speakers and navigation.
2023 Nissan LEAF S – MSRP From $28,895
The S offers a cloth interior with automatic climate control, fully digital instrumentation, manual seats, and power windows and locks. Other features include cruise control, proximity keyless access, and 16-inch steel wheels.
2023 Nissan LEAF SV Plus – MSRP From $36,895
In addition to more power and range, the SV Plus furnishes heated front seats, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, fog lights, heated side mirrors, and rapid interior heating. The SV Plus rolls on 17-inch five-spoke aluminum wheels.
Compare LEAF Trims Side-By-Side
The 2023 Nissan LEAF in base S trim reminds us of an EV from ten years ago. By today's standards, the S comes up short on power, range, and equipment. These issues can be cured, however, by springing for the well-rounded SV Plus.