2018 Nissan Leaf SV

May 29, 2018

Lindsay Brooke

Uncoiling the fat-diameter charge cord from its kit bag, I plugged the Nissan’s new Leaf into the 120-V outlet on my garage’s exterior wall. Handling the cord, which was dirty from the previous night’s charging, left black grime on my hands. Like fueling a diesel but without the smell and oily fingers.

“Of course, I’d have a Level 2 wall-mount charging station inside the garage if I owned this car,” I reminded myself, just as a ‘beep’ signaled the car was taking on electrons.

The 2018 Leaf's drive motor now generates 147 hp —37% more than the previous-generation Leaf. (Nissan)

While I am still not an EV convert, I found much to like about the latest generation of Nissan’s pioneering battery-electric. At freeway speeds, the car’s cabin is quieter than that of many luxury cars. On a twisty road, the Leaf doesn’t embarrass itself, even though much of the platform is carryover from the previous generation and the car rides on Michelin’s low-rolling-resistance tires. For an EV, steering feedback is surprisingly accurate and the redesigned cabin feels airy and roomy.

By applying only moderate pressure to the Leaf’s rheostat ‘throttle’ pedal, I was able to travel 146 miles (236 km) between full charges in mixed-roads commuting. Not bad for late April in Michigan, where it both snowed and reached 65°F during my week with Leaf; Nissan advertises a 151-mile (243-km) range. A heavy right foot will sap the 40-kW·h air-cooled battery quickly, though. The e-Pedal function enables one-pedal operation and boosts brake regen capability.

The 60-kW·h battery due later this year will bring 200-mile (322-km) range —perhaps enough to steer more EV aspirants towards the Nissan store. — Lindsay Brooke

2018 Nissan Leaf SV

Base price: $32,490

As tested: $36,855

Highs: Longer range than previous; pleasant styling; world-class cabin NVH levels

Lows: Marginal interior materials, still uncompetitive range

The takeaway: Waiting for the bigger battery