2020 Nissan Electric Cars Review Top Models and Features You Need to Know

The 2020 Nissan electric car lineup delivers impressive range, cutting-edge tech, and unmatched value, with the Nissan LEAF leading the charge as one of the most affordable and reliable EVs on the market. With up to 226 miles of range on the LEAF Plus and standard ProPILOT Assist driver aids, these models blend performance, safety, and innovation for eco-conscious drivers seeking a smart, stylish ride.

Key Takeaways

• 2020 Nissan Leaf offers 149-mile range: Ideal for daily commutes and city driving.
• ProPILOT Assist enhances safety: Combines adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping for stress-free highway drives.
• e-Pedal simplifies driving: Single-pedal control accelerates and brakes for smoother urban navigation.
• NissanConnect EV app included: Remotely monitor charging, climate, and vehicle status via smartphone.
• Affordable pricing after incentives: Competitive MSRP plus federal/state rebates boost value.
• Quick Charge port available: 40-minute 80% charge (DC fast charging) on higher trims.

2020 Nissan Electric Cars: A New Era of Sustainable Driving

The year 2020 marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of electric vehicles (EVs), and Nissan, a pioneer in the EV space, continued to solidify its reputation with a refreshed and compelling lineup. As the world increasingly shifts toward sustainable transportation, Nissan stood at the forefront with its innovative electric cars that blend affordability, practicality, and cutting-edge technology. The 2020 Nissan electric car lineup wasn’t just about reducing emissions—it was about redefining the driving experience for everyday commuters, eco-conscious families, and tech-savvy drivers alike.

With the global push for cleaner energy and stricter emissions regulations, automakers faced mounting pressure to deliver electric vehicles that were not only environmentally friendly but also competitive in performance, range, and features. Nissan answered the call with the 2020 Nissan Leaf and its sportier sibling, the Leaf Plus, both of which received significant upgrades over previous models. From improved battery capacity and faster charging to advanced driver-assistance systems and a more refined interior, these vehicles demonstrated that electric driving could be both accessible and enjoyable. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer or a seasoned enthusiast, the 2020 Nissan electric cars offer a compelling mix of innovation, value, and reliability that’s hard to ignore.

Overview of the 2020 Nissan Electric Car Lineup

The 2020 Nissan electric vehicle portfolio was centered around one core model: the Nissan Leaf, with two distinct variants—the standard Leaf and the Leaf Plus—offering different levels of performance and range. Unlike some competitors that introduced multiple EV models in 2020, Nissan focused its efforts on perfecting and expanding its flagship EV, ensuring that it remained a top contender in the compact electric hatchback segment.

The 2020 Nissan Leaf: The Original EV Gets a Makeover

The base 2020 Nissan Leaf retained the familiar hatchback design that had become synonymous with the Leaf brand since its 2010 debut. However, this model wasn’t just a carryover—it received a comprehensive refresh. The exterior featured a bolder front grille with Nissan’s signature V-motion design, sharper LED headlights, and a more aerodynamic profile. Inside, the cabin was upgraded with higher-quality materials, a modern 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and improved ergonomics.

Under the hood, the standard Leaf was powered by a 147-horsepower electric motor paired with a 40 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This combination delivered an EPA-estimated 149 miles of range—a modest but practical figure for city dwellers and short-to-medium commuters. The Leaf’s instant torque made it feel nimble in stop-and-go traffic, while its compact size and tight turning radius made it ideal for urban environments.

The 2020 Nissan Leaf Plus: Extended Range and Enhanced Performance

For drivers seeking more range and power, the 2020 Nissan Leaf Plus was the clear choice. This upgraded version featured a larger 62 kWh battery pack and a more potent 214-horsepower electric motor, boosting the EPA-estimated range to 226 miles—a significant leap from the standard model. This increase made the Leaf Plus a viable option for longer commutes and weekend road trips, reducing range anxiety for many buyers.

The Leaf Plus also introduced several premium features, including:

• e-Pedal: A one-pedal driving system that allows drivers to accelerate, decelerate, and stop using just the accelerator pedal, enhancing efficiency and reducing brake wear.
• ProPILOT Assist: Nissan’s semi-autonomous driving system, which combines adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to reduce driver fatigue on highways.
• Heated steering wheel and seats: Available on higher trims, these features improved comfort in colder climates.
• Faster DC fast charging: The Leaf Plus could charge at up to 100 kW, allowing it to regain 80% of its battery in about 45 minutes at compatible charging stations.

Trim Levels and Pricing Strategy

Nissan offered the 2020 Leaf and Leaf Plus in multiple trim levels—S, SV, and SL—each progressively adding more features and comfort. The base Leaf S started at around $29,990 (before federal and state incentives), making it one of the most affordable new EVs on the market. The Leaf Plus S began at $38,240, offering the extended range and power at a competitive price point.

Higher trims like the Leaf Plus SL (priced at $43,970) included luxury touches such as:

• Leather-appointed seating
• Premium Bose audio system
• LED fog lights and rear spoiler
• 360-degree camera system

This tiered pricing allowed buyers to choose a model that matched their budget and lifestyle, from budget-conscious commuters to those seeking a near-luxury EV experience.

Performance and Driving Experience: What Sets the 2020 Leaf Apart?

When it comes to electric vehicles, performance isn’t just about speed—it’s about how the car handles, accelerates, and feels on the road. The 2020 Nissan Leaf and Leaf Plus delivered a driving experience that balanced efficiency with enjoyment, making them stand out in a crowded EV market.

Instant Torque and Smooth Acceleration

One of the most praised aspects of the 2020 Leaf was its instant torque delivery. Unlike internal combustion engines that need to rev up, electric motors provide maximum torque from a standstill. The standard Leaf accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.4 seconds—respectable for a compact hatchback—while the Leaf Plus shaved that down to approximately 6.7 seconds, thanks to its more powerful motor.

This immediate response made merging onto highways or navigating city traffic a breeze. Drivers reported a sense of confidence and control, especially during quick maneuvers. The electric powertrain also contributed to a remarkably quiet cabin, with minimal wind and road noise, enhancing the overall comfort of long drives.

Regenerative Braking and e-Pedal Technology

Nissan’s e-Pedal system was a standout feature in the 2020 Leaf lineup. When activated, the e-Pedal allowed drivers to control both acceleration and braking with the accelerator pedal. Lifting off the pedal triggered strong regenerative braking, which slowed the car down significantly—often to a complete stop—without touching the brake pedal.

This technology had several benefits:

• Increased energy efficiency: Regenerative braking recaptured kinetic energy and fed it back into the battery, extending range.
• Reduced brake wear: With less reliance on friction brakes, brake pads lasted longer, lowering maintenance costs.
• Enhanced control in traffic: Drivers could navigate stop-and-go traffic with one pedal, reducing driver fatigue.

While some drivers needed time to adjust, many found the e-Pedal intuitive after a few days of use. It was especially useful in city driving, where frequent stops were the norm.

Handling and Ride Quality

The 2020 Leaf featured a well-tuned suspension that struck a balance between comfort and sportiness. The Leaf Plus, with its heavier battery, had a slightly stiffer ride but still absorbed bumps and potholes effectively. The low center of gravity—thanks to the floor-mounted battery—provided excellent stability, reducing body roll during cornering.

Steering was light and precise, ideal for urban driving, though it lacked the sporty feedback of performance EVs like the Tesla Model 3. That said, the Leaf wasn’t designed to be a track star—it was built for practicality, safety, and everyday usability. The tight turning radius (34.8 feet) made parking and U-turns effortless, a major plus in crowded city centers.

Charging Infrastructure and Range: Real-World Usability

Range anxiety remains one of the biggest barriers to EV adoption, and Nissan addressed this head-on with the 2020 Leaf lineup. While the standard Leaf offered a modest 149 miles, the Leaf Plus’s 226-mile range was a game-changer for many buyers, especially when paired with improved charging options.

Home Charging: Level 1 and Level 2 Options

Most Leaf owners charged their vehicles at home using either a Level 1 (120-volt) or Level 2 (240-volt) charger. A Level 1 charger, using a standard household outlet, added about 4-5 miles of range per hour—suitable for overnight charging if daily driving was under 40 miles. However, for faster charging, a Level 2 charger (typically 240 volts, 30-40 amps) was recommended.

With a Level 2 charger, the 2020 Leaf could fully charge in:

• Standard Leaf (40 kWh): 7.5 to 8 hours
• Leaf Plus (62 kWh): 11 to 12 hours

Many homeowners installed Level 2 chargers in their garages or driveways, often with the help of utility company rebates. Nissan also partnered with charging networks to offer installation support and discounts.

Public Charging: DC Fast Charging Capabilities

For longer trips, public DC fast charging was essential. The standard 2020 Leaf supported 50 kW DC fast charging, which could charge the battery to 80% in about 40 minutes. The Leaf Plus, however, supported 100 kW fast charging, reducing that time to around 45 minutes—a significant advantage for road-trippers.

Real-world testing showed that the Leaf Plus could regain about 100 miles of range in 30 minutes at a 100 kW station, making it feasible to plan longer journeys. Nissan’s integration with the CHAdeMO charging standard ensured compatibility with a wide network of public chargers, including those from ChargePoint, EVgo, and Electrify America.

Charging Tips for 2020 Leaf Owners

• Use the NissanConnect app: This app allowed owners to monitor battery status, start charging remotely, and locate nearby charging stations.
• Precondition the battery: In cold weather, preconditioning the battery (while plugged in) improved charging speed and range.
• Plan trips using PlugShare or A Better Routeplanner: These tools helped identify fast-charging stations along the route, minimizing downtime.
• Charge to 80% regularly: To prolong battery life, avoid charging to 100% unless necessary for long trips.

Technology and Safety: Smart Features for Modern Drivers

The 2020 Nissan Leaf wasn’t just an electric car—it was a tech-forward vehicle packed with features designed to enhance safety, convenience, and connectivity. From advanced driver-assistance systems to intuitive infotainment, the Leaf delivered a modern driving experience.

ProPILOT Assist: Nissan’s Answer to Autonomous Driving

The ProPILOT Assist system, available on SV and SL trims, was one of the Leaf’s most impressive features. It combined:

• Adaptive cruise control: Maintained a set distance from the vehicle ahead.
• Lane-keeping assist: Gently steered the car to keep it centered in the lane.
• Traffic jam assist: In stop-and-go traffic, the system could handle acceleration, braking, and steering at low speeds.

While not a fully autonomous system, ProPILOT Assist significantly reduced driver workload on highways, making long drives less tiring. It required hands on the wheel but provided a level of convenience unmatched in its price range.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2020 Leaf featured an 8-inch touchscreen with NissanConnect infotainment. Key features included:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music, and messaging.
• Voice recognition: Allowed drivers to control climate, navigation, and media without taking their eyes off the road.
• Remote access via NissanConnect app: Enabled remote start, climate control, and charging scheduling.
• Wi-Fi hotspot capability: Available on higher trims, turning the car into a mobile internet hub.

The interface was user-friendly, though some critics noted that the graphics weren’t as sharp as those in newer EVs. Still, it was a major upgrade over previous Leaf models.

Safety Features and Ratings

The 2020 Leaf came standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, a suite of six advanced safety features:

• Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Lane departure warning
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Rear automatic braking
• High beam assist

These features contributed to the Leaf earning a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also awarded it a Top Safety Pick when equipped with specific headlights.

Ownership Experience: Cost, Maintenance, and Incentives

Buying an electric car is about more than just the sticker price—it’s about the total cost of ownership. The 2020 Nissan Leaf offered compelling value when factoring in incentives, lower operating costs, and minimal maintenance.

Federal and State Incentives

The 2020 Leaf qualified for the full $7,500 federal tax credit in the U.S., which could be claimed when filing taxes. Additionally, many states offered their own rebates:

• California: Up to $2,000 Clean Vehicle Rebate
• Colorado: $5,000 state tax credit
• New York: $2,000 Drive Clean Rebate

When combined, these incentives could reduce the effective price of a Leaf Plus SL to under $30,000—competitive with many gas-powered sedans.

Lower Maintenance and Fuel Costs

Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines, resulting in lower maintenance costs. The 2020 Leaf required:

• No oil changes
• No spark plugs or timing belts
• Reduced brake wear due to regenerative braking

Nissan recommended a simple maintenance schedule, with inspections every 12 months or 12,000 miles. Over a 10-year ownership period, Leaf owners could save $4,600 to $7,000 compared to a gas-powered car, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Resale Value and Battery Longevity

While EVs historically had lower resale values, the 2020 Leaf’s reputation for reliability and strong incentives helped stabilize its depreciation. The battery was covered by an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty, with a guarantee that it would retain at least 70% of its capacity during that period.

Real-world data showed that Leaf batteries degraded by about 2-3% per year, depending on usage and climate. Proper charging habits—like avoiding extreme heat and frequent fast charging—helped extend battery life.

Data Comparison: 2020 Nissan Leaf vs. Competitors

To help buyers make informed decisions, here’s a comparison of the 2020 Nissan Leaf and Leaf Plus with key competitors in the compact EV segment:

Model	Range (EPA)	Horsepower	Starting Price	DC Fast Charging	Key Features
2020 Nissan Leaf S	149 miles	147 hp	$29,990	50 kW	e-Pedal, Safety Shield 360
2020 Nissan Leaf Plus S	226 miles	214 hp	$38,240	100 kW	ProPILOT Assist, larger battery
2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV	259 miles	200 hp	$36,620	55 kW	Spacious interior, one-pedal driving
2020 Hyundai Kona Electric	258 miles	201 hp	$37,190	75 kW	SUV styling, premium interior
2020 Tesla Model 3 SR+	263 miles	283 hp	$39,990	250 kW (Supercharger)	Autopilot, minimalist design

This table highlights the Leaf’s strengths: affordability, fast-charging capability (Leaf Plus), and advanced safety features. While it didn’t lead in range, its value proposition and Nissan’s reputation for reliability made it a strong contender.

Conclusion: Why the 2020 Nissan Leaf Still Matters

The 2020 Nissan electric cars—particularly the Leaf and Leaf Plus—represented a significant step forward in the democratization of electric mobility. With improved range, faster charging, advanced technology, and a competitive price point, they proved that EVs could be practical, enjoyable, and accessible to a wide range of drivers.

While newer models have since entered the market, the 2020 Leaf remains a smart choice for used car buyers and those seeking a reliable, feature-rich EV without breaking the bank. Its blend of innovation, safety, and sustainability continues to resonate in a world increasingly focused on reducing carbon emissions. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or taking a weekend getaway, the 2020 Nissan Leaf delivers a driving experience that’s efficient, comfortable, and forward-thinking.

As Nissan continues to innovate with models like the Ariya, the legacy of the 2020 Leaf serves as a reminder that the journey to a sustainable future begins with accessible, well-designed electric vehicles. For anyone considering making the switch to electric, the 2020 Nissan Leaf lineup is not just a good option—it’s a compelling starting point.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top 2020 Nissan electric car models available?

The 2020 Nissan electric car lineup features the Nissan Leaf and the upgraded Leaf Plus. Both offer zero-emission driving with improved range and tech, making them standout choices in the affordable EV segment.

How far can a 2020 Nissan Leaf Plus go on a single charge?

The 2020 Nissan Leaf Plus delivers an EPA-estimated range of up to 215 miles per charge, a significant upgrade over the standard Leaf’s 149-mile range. This makes it ideal for daily commutes and longer urban trips.

What charging options do 2020 Nissan electric cars support?

2020 Nissan electric cars support Level 1 (120V), Level 2 (240V), and DC fast charging. With DC fast charging, the Leaf Plus can reach 80% battery in about 45 minutes, adding convenience for on-the-go drivers.

Do 2020 Nissan electric cars come with advanced safety features?

Yes, all 2020 Nissan electric cars include Nissan Safety Shield 360 as standard, featuring automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims add ProPILOT Assist for semi-autonomous driving.

How does the 2020 Nissan Leaf compare to other electric cars in its class?

The 2020 Nissan Leaf stands out with its affordable pricing, spacious interior, and user-friendly tech like the NissanConnect infotainment system. While competitors like the Chevy Bolt offer more range, the Leaf excels in value and reliability.

What unique tech features do 2020 Nissan electric cars offer?

Key tech includes e-Pedal (one-pedal driving), smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and available ProPILOT Assist. The 2020 models also feature a larger 8-inch touchscreen and improved driver-assistance tools.