New/Notable:
- All-electric hatchback that seats 5 passengers
- Available 6.6-kilowatt onboard charger for faster charging
- SV and SL trims have a larger battery and more range
The 2016 Nissan Leaf is an all-electric hatchback that seats 5 passengers. It competes with the Ford Focus Electric, and Chevrolet Volt.
Three trims are available: the S, SL, and SV.
The Leaf has a soft, bubbly appearance that contrasts the current trend of sporty, aggressive designs. Abnormally large, pointy headlights are stretched along the hood. Thin, curved tail lights are mounted at the D-pillars. Standard features include power/heated side mirrors and a rear spoiler. Fully automatic LED headlights, fog lights, and a solar-panel rear spoiler that charges the vehicle’s accessories are also available.
Powering the Leaf is a standard 107-hp, 80 kW AC synchronous electric motor paired with a 24kWh lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery with an 84 mile range. The SV and SL trims use the same electric motor, but achieve a 107 mile range with a larger 30kWh Li-ion battery. For faster charging, a 6.6 kW onboard charger is available.
Inside, the Leaf has an upscale, black interior with digital instrumentation. The center console features a standard multimedia system, which includes a 5-inch display and Bluetooth connectivity for phone and audio. It can be upgraded to the NissanConnect package that features a 7-inch display, an integrated navigation system, and a mobile app suite. A tilt/telescoping steering wheel, heated front seats, and a 60/40 split rear seat come standard. Optional features include leather-trim upholstery, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, an automatic dimming rearview, and a Bose premium audio system.
The Leaf earned a 4- out of 5-star overall crash test safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features include an advance airbag system, antilock brakes, an electronic stability system, and a tire pressure monitoring system.
