2021 Nissan Electric Car Review Features and Performance Insights

The 2021 Nissan electric car lineup, led by the updated Leaf, delivers impressive value with up to 212 miles of range and a host of advanced driver-assist features. With responsive handling, rapid DC fast-charging capability, and a tech-forward interior, the 2021 models strike a smart balance between affordability and innovation in the competitive EV market.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: Up to 226 miles on a single charge.
• Fast charging: 80% charge in 40 minutes with DC fast charging.
• Smooth acceleration: Instant torque delivers responsive, quiet performance.
• Spacious interior: Ample legroom and cargo space for its class.
• Advanced safety: ProPILOT Assist enhances highway driving safety.
• Infotainment upgrade: 8-inch touchscreen with seamless smartphone integration.
• Eco-friendly materials: Sustainable interior options reduce environmental impact.

2021 Nissan Electric Car: A New Chapter in Sustainable Mobility

The year 2021 marked a pivotal moment for Nissan as the automaker continued to refine its electric vehicle (EV) legacy with the updated 2021 Nissan Leaf. As one of the earliest mass-market electric cars, the Nissan Leaf has long been a symbol of accessible, eco-friendly transportation. In 2021, Nissan built upon this reputation by introducing key enhancements to performance, range, technology, and design—making the Leaf a compelling option for urban commuters, eco-conscious families, and first-time EV buyers alike. With global EV adoption accelerating due to rising fuel costs, government incentives, and climate concerns, the 2021 Nissan electric car lineup offered a balanced blend of practicality and innovation.

Unlike some competitors that prioritized luxury or extreme performance, Nissan focused on real-world usability. The 2021 Leaf stood out not by being the fastest or most expensive EV, but by being one of the most affordable, reliable, and feature-rich options in its class. Whether you’re navigating city streets, commuting across town, or planning weekend getaways, the Leaf delivered a driving experience that felt both modern and familiar. This review dives deep into the 2021 Nissan electric car’s features, performance, technology, safety, and value proposition, offering insights that help potential buyers make an informed decision in a rapidly evolving EV market.

Design and Exterior: Modern Aesthetics with Purpose

The 2021 Nissan Leaf retained its distinctive silhouette while incorporating subtle but impactful design updates that improved both aerodynamics and visual appeal. Nissan’s design philosophy for the Leaf emphasized functionality and futurism, blending sharp lines, a sloping roofline, and signature LED lighting to create a car that looked like it belonged in the 21st century.

Exterior Styling and Aerodynamics

The 2021 Leaf featured a revised front fascia with a closed-off grille (a hallmark of EVs), a more aggressive lower bumper, and a redesigned hood that improved airflow. The zero-emission badge remained proudly displayed, signaling its electric nature. The signature “boomerang” LED daytime running lights flanked the headlights, giving the Leaf a recognizable face even at night.

Aerodynamic efficiency was a key focus. The Leaf achieved a drag coefficient of 0.28 Cd, thanks to features like:

• Active grille shutters that closed when cooling wasn’t needed
• Underbody panels to smooth airflow beneath the car
• 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels with low-drag design (available on SV and SL trims)
• Flush-mounted door handles and optimized side mirrors

These features not only enhanced efficiency but also contributed to a quieter cabin and extended range—critical for long-distance EV travel.

Color Options and Customization

Nissan offered the 2021 Leaf in a range of vibrant and classic hues, including:

• Scarlet Ember Tintcoat (a deep, metallic red)
• Deep Ocean Blue Metallic
• Gun Metallic
• Super Black
• Two-tone options (e.g., Pearl White with black roof)

The two-tone paint scheme was a standout, giving the Leaf a premium, sporty appearance that rivaled more expensive EVs. For buyers seeking a personalized touch, Nissan also offered accessory packages like roof rails, splash guards, and illuminated kick plates.

LED Lighting and Visibility

All trims came standard with LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights, improving nighttime visibility and energy efficiency. The automatic high beams and adaptive lighting (on higher trims) helped drivers see better around curves and in low-light conditions—ideal for rural or poorly lit urban areas.

Pro Tip: If you frequently drive at night or in fog-prone regions, consider the SL trim, which includes LED fog lights and auto-leveling headlights for maximum visibility.

Interior and Comfort: Practicality Meets Technology

Step inside the 2021 Nissan Leaf, and you’re greeted with a cabin that balances minimalist design with thoughtful ergonomics. While not as opulent as luxury EVs, the Leaf’s interior focused on usability, comfort, and intuitive tech integration—making it a great fit for daily driving.

Seating and Space

The Leaf offered seating for five with ample legroom and headroom, especially in the front. The rear seats were best suited for adults under 6 feet tall, but children and teens had plenty of space. Key interior measurements:

• Front headroom: 41.2 inches
• Rear legroom: 33.5 inches
• Cargo volume: 23.6 cubic feet (expandable to 30 with seats folded)

The seats were upholstered in durable cloth (S trim) or upgraded Nissan Zero Gravity seats with leatherette or genuine leather (SV and SL trims). These seats provided excellent lumbar support and were designed to reduce fatigue on long drives.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2021 Leaf featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system (upgraded from previous models) with:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (standard on all trims)
• NissanConnect EV telematics (real-time battery status, charging station locator, remote climate control)
• Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming
• Available Bose Premium Audio System (SL trim)

The system was responsive and intuitive, with large icons and voice command support. However, some users noted that the screen could be slow to load in extreme temperatures—a common issue with older EV infotainment systems.

Pro Tip: Use the NissanConnect app to pre-condition your car (heat or cool the cabin) while it’s still charging. This saves battery power and ensures comfort upon entry.

Climate Control and Air Quality

The Leaf came with automatic climate control, heated front seats (SV and SL), and a microfilter cabin air system that reduced allergens and pollutants. The SL trim added a heated steering wheel—a welcome feature in colder climates.

One standout feature was the Eco Climate Control mode, which adjusted heating and cooling to maximize range. For example, instead of blasting the heater, it used seat heaters and targeted airflow to reduce energy consumption.

Performance and Range: Efficiency Without Compromise

The 2021 Nissan Leaf offered two battery and motor configurations: the standard Leaf (40 kWh) and the longer-range Leaf Plus (62 kWh). This dual offering allowed buyers to choose based on their driving needs and budget.

Motor and Powertrain Options

Standard Leaf (40 kWh):

• Motor: 110 kW (147 hp) AC synchronous motor
• Torque: 236 lb-ft
• 0-60 mph: ~7.4 seconds
• Top speed: 90 mph

Leaf Plus (62 kWh):

• Motor: 160 kW (214 hp) AC synchronous motor
• Torque: 250 lb-ft
• 0-60 mph: ~6.8 seconds
• Top speed: 99 mph

The Leaf Plus provided a noticeable boost in acceleration and responsiveness, especially when merging onto highways or passing slower vehicles. Both models used a single-speed reduction gear transmission, delivering smooth, linear power delivery—a hallmark of electric vehicles.

Driving Modes and e-Pedal

The 2021 Leaf introduced or refined several driving modes:

• Normal Mode: Balanced performance and efficiency
• Eco Mode: Reduced motor output, softened climate control, and enhanced regenerative braking for maximum range
• B Mode: Increased regenerative braking (activated via a steering-wheel paddle)
• e-Pedal: One-pedal driving—lift off the accelerator to slow the car significantly, even to a complete stop

The e-Pedal was a game-changer for city driving. Once activated, drivers could control speed using only the accelerator, reducing wear on brake pads and improving energy recapture. It took some getting used to, but many owners reported preferring it after a few days.

Pro Tip: Use e-Pedal in stop-and-go traffic or hilly areas. It’s less effective on highways, where coasting is more efficient.

Range and Real-World Testing

EPA-estimated ranges:

• Leaf (40 kWh): 149 miles
• Leaf Plus (62 kWh): 226 miles

Real-world tests showed slightly lower figures:

• Leaf: 130–140 miles (mixed city/highway)
• Leaf Plus: 200–210 miles (mixed driving)

Range varied significantly based on driving habits, terrain, and climate. For example:

• In cold weather (-10°C), range dropped by 20–30% due to battery inefficiency and cabin heating
• High-speed highway driving (75+ mph) reduced range by up to 15% compared to city driving
• Using Eco Mode and pre-conditioning could add 10–15 miles of usable range

For most urban and suburban drivers, the Leaf’s range was more than sufficient. A typical daily commute of 30–40 miles meant the car only needed charging every 3–5 days.

Charging and Battery Technology: Fast, Flexible, and Future-Ready

One of the biggest concerns for EV buyers is charging infrastructure and speed. The 2021 Nissan Leaf addressed this with a versatile charging system that worked with home, public, and fast-charging networks.

Charging Options and Times

Charging Method	Leaf (40 kWh)	Leaf Plus (62 kWh)	Notes
Level 1 (120V)	~22 hours	~34 hours	Standard household outlet; best for overnight charging
Level 2 (240V)	~7.5 hours	~11.5 hours	Recommended for home charging stations
DC Fast Charging (50 kW)	~40 min (0–80%)	~45 min (0–80%)	Available on SV and SL trims; uses CHAdeMO connector

The Leaf Plus supported up to 100 kW DC fast charging (on compatible stations), reducing charge time to ~35 minutes for an 80% charge. However, most public stations capped at 50 kW, so real-world fast charging was typically limited to that speed.

Home Charging Setup

Nissan offered a home charging station (Level 2) through partnerships with companies like ChargePoint. Installation typically cost $500–$800, but many states and utility companies offered rebates covering 50–100% of the cost.

Pro Tip: Install the charger on the same side of your garage as the charging port to avoid cable strain. Use a timer to charge during off-peak hours (e.g., 10 PM–6 AM) for lower electricity rates.

Battery Warranty and Longevity

Nissan provided an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty, covering capacity loss below 70%. Real-world data from Leaf owners showed batteries retained 85–90% capacity after 8 years, with proper care.

Tips to maximize battery life:

• Avoid frequent DC fast charging (use it only when necessary)
• Keep charge level between 20% and 80% for daily use
• Store the car in moderate temperatures (avoid extreme heat or cold)
• Use the Nissan app to monitor battery health and charging history

Safety, Technology, and Value: More Than Just an EV

The 2021 Nissan Leaf wasn’t just about being electric—it was also a leader in safety, driver assistance, and overall value.

Safety Ratings and Features

The Leaf earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a “Top Safety Pick” designation from the IIHS. Standard safety features included:

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection
• Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist
• Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• High Beam Assist
• Rearview camera (standard) and 360-degree camera (SL trim)

The Leaf’s rigid body structure and battery placement (low in the chassis) contributed to excellent crash protection and a low center of gravity, improving stability.

ProPILOT Assist

Available on SV and SL trims, Nissan ProPILOT Assist was a semi-autonomous driving system that combined adaptive cruise control with lane centering. It worked well on highways, maintaining speed and distance from the car ahead while keeping the Leaf centered in its lane.

While not a full self-driving system, ProPILOT reduced driver fatigue on long trips. It could be activated at speeds above 20 mph and disengaged with a button press or brake tap.

Pro Tip: Use ProPILOT on long highway drives, but always keep your hands on the wheel and stay alert. It’s not designed for city driving or complex traffic situations.

Pricing and Value Proposition

The 2021 Leaf offered excellent value:

• Leaf S (40 kWh): Starting at $31,670 (after $7,500 federal tax credit)
• Leaf SV (40 kWh): $34,950
• Leaf SV Plus (62 kWh): $38,270
• Leaf SL Plus (62 kWh): $43,970

Compared to competitors like the Chevrolet Bolt or Hyundai Kona Electric, the Leaf offered a lower entry price, better warranty coverage, and a more established charging network (via Nissan’s partnerships).

Additional savings:

• Lower maintenance costs (no oil changes, fewer moving parts)
• Reduced fuel costs (~$500/year for average drivers)
• Potential state/local EV incentives (e.g., California’s $2,000 rebate)

Final Verdict: Why the 2021 Nissan Leaf Stands Out

The 2021 Nissan electric car—specifically the Leaf and Leaf Plus—represented a mature, well-rounded entry in the EV market. It wasn’t the flashiest or fastest, but it delivered where it mattered: reliability, affordability, and real-world usability. With a range that met the needs of most daily drivers, a comfortable and tech-savvy interior, and industry-leading safety, the Leaf proved that electric cars could be practical for the masses.

For urban commuters, the base 40 kWh model was more than sufficient. For those needing longer range or more power, the Leaf Plus offered a compelling upgrade without breaking the bank. The addition of e-Pedal, ProPILOT Assist, and fast charging made the 2021 Leaf feel modern and forward-thinking.

In a world where EVs are often priced as luxury items, Nissan kept the Leaf democratic. It wasn’t just for early adopters or tech enthusiasts—it was for families, students, and everyday drivers who wanted to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

As Nissan continues to evolve its EV lineup (with models like the Ariya on the horizon), the 2021 Leaf remains a testament to the company’s commitment to sustainable, accessible mobility. Whether you’re buying your first EV or adding to your green fleet, the 2021 Nissan electric car deserves a top spot on your shortlist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the 2021 Nissan electric car?

The 2021 Nissan electric car, including the popular Nissan LEAF, offers a 40 kWh or 62 kWh battery, up to 226 miles of range, ProPILOT driver-assist tech, and a 100% electric powertrain with instant torque. It also includes standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a user-friendly infotainment system.

How does the 2021 Nissan electric car perform in cold weather?

The 2021 Nissan electric car experiences reduced range in cold temperatures—similar to most EVs—due to battery chemistry and cabin heating demands. However, pre-conditioning the battery while charging helps maintain efficiency and performance in winter conditions.

What is the charging time for the 2021 Nissan electric car?

The 2021 Nissan electric car can charge from 0-80% in about 40 minutes using a DC fast charger (62 kWh model). With a Level 2 home charger, a full charge takes approximately 7.5 to 11.5 hours, depending on battery size.

Is the 2021 Nissan LEAF the only electric car Nissan offers?

Yes, the 2021 Nissan electric car lineup primarily consists of the Nissan LEAF and LEAF Plus (with extended range). The LEAF remains Nissan’s flagship EV, with no other fully electric models available in the U.S. market for that model year.

How does the 2021 Nissan electric car compare to other EVs in its class?

The 2021 Nissan electric car stands out for its reliability, low maintenance, and strong value proposition, though it lags behind rivals like the Chevy Bolt and Tesla Model 3 in range and charging speed. Its ProPILOT Assist and spacious interior remain competitive advantages.

Does the 2021 Nissan electric car have regenerative braking?

Yes, the 2021 Nissan electric car features e-Pedal technology, which enables one-pedal driving by using strong regenerative braking to slow the car and recover energy. This enhances efficiency and reduces wear on traditional brakes.