Nissan Leaf (2011-2017) Review and Prices

Technically, the Leaf has no engine. What it uses instead is a 107hp, 187lb ft electric motor fed by 48 lithium-ion cells, which gives it measly running costs of just 2p per mile. The power output doesn’t sound like much, but like all electric vehicles that torque figure is available as soon as you touch the accelerator, so it feels quicker than it is. Officially, the latest car will do 0-62 mph in 11.5 seconds and a range-preserving 89 mph flat-out, but at town speeds it feels much brisker than the figures suggest.

As for refinement, you’d struggle to find a quieter and smoother method of propulsion this side of a Rolls Royce Phantom. It feels more natural to drive than you’d think too, thanks to a ‘B’ setting providing stronger electric regeneration when you back off the accelerator, replicating the feel of engine braking in a regular car.

For the 2016 model year Nissan is offering the Leaf with a larger capacity battery without sacrificing any interior space. The new battery uses state-of-the-art technology to pack in more charge, so now you can go up to 155 miles at a time. Our real-world test proved that number to be closer to 100 miles, but that’s still a commendable achievement.

Thanks to the electric motor’s instant torque, there’s no need to worry about which gear you’re in or the careful modulation of the clutch, you simply push on the accelerator pedal and the Leaf surges forward using its single gear. That makes it ideal for town driving where its instant get-up makes it brilliant for accelerating away from the lights or nipping into breaks in traffic. All models come fitted with a reversing camera complete with guidelines that make parking a piece of cake, too.

Out on the motorway there are also benefits to be had. Thanks to the electric motor a radiator grille isn’t needed and the Leaf has a slippery shape that not only helps save energy, but also cuts down on wind noise. Small 16-inch alloy wheels shod in relatively slim energy-saving tyres mean that road noise is extremely well contained.

Its under-floor batteries mean the Leaf has a low centre of gravity, which helps it hold the road well, but it only takes a series of quick of corners to get the car out of shape as the suspension struggles rein in body movements.