Summary
The all-electric Nissan LEAF was launched in the Canadian market back in 2011. It has a best in class 120 to 160 km autonomy. The LEAF is well equipped to face our cold winters as the front and rear seats, side rear-view mirrors and steering wheel are all heated.
LEAF owners can get the most out of the battery by paying attention to small details such as using the heated seats, which consume a modest 1 to 2 kilowatts instead of the climate control, which devours at least 10 more kilowatts.
This is a sample of the mindset that one must have as an electric vehicle owner. You'll eventually get the hang of 'being green' without having to sacrifice either room for five occupants, cargo space, or driving pleasure.
Pros
Zero fuel expenses, friendly cockpit, decent road handling, and a miserly $300 annual spend to travel 20,000 kilometres.
Cons
Slow recharge, reduced autonomy when compared to combustion-engine vehicles, highway driving actually consumes more electricity than city driving.
Price
The Nissan LEAF has a MSRP of $38,395 for a well-equipped version.
Fuel Economy
100%
New and improved
This is a first-generation model and a number of 2012 units have yet to be sold before the 2013 models hit showroom floors.
Exterior Styling
The exterior styling of the Nissan LEAF is a departure from the copy/paste styling trends we see in the market today without being overly 'stylish'. At second glance the subtle curves and bulging headlights give it a certain insect-like quality, with its pointy nose that is reminiscent of the defunct Chevy Lumina. Its expansive window glass tends to soften the overall effect. The bulging rear end is both attractive and practical, adding welcomed cargo room.
Cargo Capacity
The 411 available litres of cargo space is more generous than the average sedan, but we expect more from a hatchback.
Drivetrain
The Nissan LEAF is all electric heart. The synchronous AC motor produces the equivalent of 107 hp, and connects directly to the wheels, without the need for a transmission.
Safety
Anti-lock braking system with brake assist and electronic stability program.
Lateral collision test score: NA
frontal collision test score: NA
Airbags: 6
Comparable Models
Focus Electric
Mitsubishi I-MiEV
References:
L'Annuel de l'automobile 2013
Le Guide de l'auto 2013 (www.guideautoweb.com)
The all-electric Nissan LEAF was launched in the Canadian market back in 2011. It has a best in class 120 to 160 km autonomy. The LEAF is well equipped to face our cold winters as the front and rear seats, side rear-view mirrors and steering wheel are all heated.
LEAF owners can get the most out of the battery by paying attention to small details such as using the heated seats, which consume a modest 1 to 2 kilowatts instead of the climate control, which devours at least 10 more kilowatts.
This is a sample of the mindset that one must have as an electric vehicle owner. You'll eventually get the hang of 'being green' without having to sacrifice either room for five occupants, cargo space, or driving pleasure.
Pros
Zero fuel expenses, friendly cockpit, decent road handling, and a miserly $300 annual spend to travel 20,000 kilometres.
Cons
Slow recharge, reduced autonomy when compared to combustion-engine vehicles, highway driving actually consumes more electricity than city driving.
 |
| Photo: Nissan |
Price
The Nissan LEAF has a MSRP of $38,395 for a well-equipped version.
Fuel Economy
100%
New and improved
This is a first-generation model and a number of 2012 units have yet to be sold before the 2013 models hit showroom floors.
Exterior Styling
The exterior styling of the Nissan LEAF is a departure from the copy/paste styling trends we see in the market today without being overly 'stylish'. At second glance the subtle curves and bulging headlights give it a certain insect-like quality, with its pointy nose that is reminiscent of the defunct Chevy Lumina. Its expansive window glass tends to soften the overall effect. The bulging rear end is both attractive and practical, adding welcomed cargo room.
Cargo Capacity
The 411 available litres of cargo space is more generous than the average sedan, but we expect more from a hatchback.
Drivetrain
The Nissan LEAF is all electric heart. The synchronous AC motor produces the equivalent of 107 hp, and connects directly to the wheels, without the need for a transmission.
Safety
Anti-lock braking system with brake assist and electronic stability program.
Lateral collision test score: NA
frontal collision test score: NA
Airbags: 6
Comparable Models
Focus Electric
Mitsubishi I-MiEV
 |
| Photo: Nissan |
References:
L'Annuel de l'automobile 2013
Le Guide de l'auto 2013 (www.guideautoweb.com)