Nissan All Electric Cars 2021 Top Models and Features Reviewed

The 2021 Nissan all-electric lineup delivers impressive range, cutting-edge tech, and eco-friendly performance, with the Nissan LEAF leading the charge as a top choice for budget-conscious EV buyers. Packed with ProPILOT Assist, e-Pedal, and up to 226 miles of range (LEAF Plus), these models combine practicality and innovation for a seamless electric driving experience.

Key Takeaways

• Nissan Leaf leads 2021 EV lineup with proven reliability and affordable pricing.
• 40 kWh battery offers 150-mile range—ideal for daily commutes and city driving.
• e-Pedal enables one-pedal driving for smoother, more efficient urban navigation.
• ProPILOT Assist enhances highway safety with adaptive cruise and lane-keeping features.
• Leaf Plus delivers 214-mile range for longer trips and added peace of mind.
• Standard CHAdeMO fast charging cuts downtime with 80% charge in 40 minutes.

Why Nissan’s 2021 All-Electric Cars Are Turning Heads

Remember when electric cars felt like a sci-fi dream? Fast forward to 2021, and they’re not just real—they’re reshaping how we think about driving. Nissan, a brand that’s been in the EV game longer than most, stepped up its game in 2021 with a lineup that proves electric vehicles (EVs) can be practical, stylish, and fun. Whether you’re a city commuter tired of gas stations or an eco-conscious driver looking to reduce your carbon footprint, Nissan’s 2021 all-electric cars offer something for everyone.

What sets Nissan apart isn’t just its history (the Nissan Leaf has been around since 2010, after all). It’s the brand’s ability to adapt. The 2021 lineup balances affordability, innovation, and real-world usability. No, they’re not luxury speedsters, but they’re reliable, efficient, and packed with features that make daily life easier. If you’ve ever wondered, “Are Nissan electric cars worth it?” or “What’s the best Nissan EV for my needs?”—you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the top 2021 models, their standout features, and why they might be the perfect fit for your garage.

The 2021 Nissan Leaf: The OG That Still Packs a Punch

Two Variants, One Mission: More Range

The Nissan all electric cars 2021 lineup starts with the Leaf, and it’s clear Nissan listened to drivers’ biggest concern: range anxiety. In 2021, the Leaf comes in two versions: the standard Leaf and the Leaf Plus. The standard Leaf offers a respectable 149 miles on a full charge, while the Leaf Plus bumps that up to 226 miles—a game-changer for those with longer commutes or weekend road trips. For context, the average American drives about 30 miles daily, so even the base model covers most needs.

Here’s a tip: If you live in a hilly area or frequently drive on highways, spring for the Leaf Plus. The extra 77 miles can mean the difference between charging once a week vs. twice. Plus, the Plus model’s larger battery (62 kWh vs. 40 kWh) gives it a slight edge in acceleration, though both are zippy in city traffic.

Tech That Makes Life Easier

Nissan didn’t just focus on range. The 2021 Leaf is packed with tech that feels intuitive, not overwhelming. The e-Pedal system lets you accelerate, brake, and stop using just one pedal—a feature that feels strange at first but quickly becomes second nature. It’s perfect for stop-and-go traffic. Meanwhile, the ProPILOT Assist system (standard on SV and SL trims) adds semi-autonomous driving, including lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control. Think of it as a co-pilot for highway drives.

One feature I love? The NissanConnect EV app. You can pre-heat or pre-cool the car from your phone before getting in. On a freezing winter morning, this is a lifesaver. It also lets you check battery status and locate nearby chargers—a must if you’re new to EVs.

Interior and Practicality: Room for Real Life

The Leaf’s interior isn’t flashy, but it’s functional. The hatchback design means you can fit a stroller, groceries, or even a small piece of furniture without breaking a sweat. The seats are comfortable for long drives, and the cabin feels quieter than a gas car—no engine noise means you’ll notice road noise more, but it’s still manageable.

A minor gripe: The infotainment screen is a bit small (8 inches), and the menus aren’t the most intuitive. But if you’re like me and just use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, this won’t be a dealbreaker. Pro tip: Use the physical buttons for climate control instead of the touchscreen—they’re faster and safer while driving.

The 2021 Nissan Leaf e+: When “Plus” Means Premium

What the “e+” Adds to the Mix

The Leaf e+ (also called the Leaf Plus) isn’t just about more range. It’s a smarter, more powerful version of the Leaf. The 160-kW electric motor delivers 214 horsepower—a noticeable jump from the standard Leaf’s 147 horsepower. This means quicker acceleration (0–60 mph in about 6.5 seconds) and better performance when merging or climbing hills.

But the real upgrade? The 62-kWh battery. Not only does it offer 226 miles of range, but it also charges faster. With a Level 3 DC fast charger, you can go from 10% to 80% in about 45 minutes. Compare that to the standard Leaf, which takes 40 minutes just to add 90 miles. If you’re on a road trip, this time savings adds up.

Trim Levels: Finding Your Sweet Spot

The Leaf e+ comes in three trims: SV Plus, SL Plus, and the limited-edition SL Plus Premium. The SV Plus is the best value, with heated seats, a 7-inch driver display, and ProPILOT Assist. The SL Plus adds luxuries like a Bose audio system, a heated steering wheel, and a power liftgate. The SL Plus Premium? It’s for tech lovers, with a 360-degree camera and a premium interior package.

Here’s a tip: If you live in a cold climate, the SL Plus’s heated steering wheel and seats are worth the upgrade. There’s nothing worse than grabbing a frozen steering wheel on a winter morning.

Charging Made Simple (Mostly)

Nissan includes a portable charging cable with every Leaf, so you can plug into a standard household outlet (Level 1) in a pinch. But for daily charging, a Level 2 charger (240 volts) is ideal. If you’re installing one at home, expect to pay $500–$1,000, depending on your electrical setup. Nissan also partners with charging networks like EVgo, so you’ll get discounted rates with a subscription.

A word of caution: Public fast chargers aren’t always reliable. I once waited 20 minutes for a charger that wasn’t working. Always check the NissanConnect app for real-time charger status before driving to one.

Charging and Range: Real-World Insights

How Far Can You Really Go?

Let’s be honest: EPA range estimates are optimistic. In real-world conditions, you’ll likely get 10–20% less. For the Leaf Plus, that’s around 180–200 miles. Factors like speed, weather, and driving style matter. For example:

• Highway driving: At 70 mph, range drops by about 15% vs. city driving.
• Cold weather: Below freezing, battery efficiency can drop 20–30%.
• Heated seats/steering wheel: Using these can cut range by 10–15 miles.

My advice? Always charge to 80% for daily use (it’s better for battery health) and reserve the full 100% for long trips. The NissanConnect app’s “Range Map” feature is a lifesaver—it shows you exactly how far you can go with your current charge.

Charging Times: What to Expect

Here’s a breakdown of charging times for the 2021 Leaf models:

Charging Type	Standard Leaf (40 kWh)	Leaf Plus (62 kWh)
Level 1 (120V)	20–24 hours (full charge)	30–35 hours (full charge)
Level 2 (240V)	7–8 hours (full charge)	11–12 hours (full charge)
Level 3 (DC Fast Charger)	40 mins (10–80%)	45 mins (10–80%)

Tip: Use Level 3 chargers sparingly. Frequent fast charging can degrade your battery over time. Stick to Level 2 for daily charging.

Safety and Reliability: Nissan’s Commitment to Peace of Mind

Top Safety Picks (Literally)

Nissan didn’t cut corners on safety. The 2021 Leaf earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, and the Leaf Plus was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). Standard safety features include:

• Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist
• Rearview camera with dynamic guidelines

The Leaf’s low center of gravity (thanks to the floor-mounted battery) also makes it more stable in turns than many gas cars. No, it won’t out-handle a sports car, but it feels planted and secure.

Reliability: The Good, the Bad, and the Battery

EVs are generally more reliable than gas cars—fewer moving parts mean fewer things to break. The 2021 Leaf’s biggest concern? Battery degradation. Over time, all EV batteries lose capacity, but Nissan’s 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty gives peace of mind. In real-world tests, Leaf batteries typically retain 80–85% of their capacity after 8 years.

A common issue: The charge port door can sometimes stick in cold weather. It’s not a safety issue, but it’s annoying. A quick spray of lubricant (like WD-40) usually fixes it.

Warranty and Maintenance: What You Need to Know

Nissan’s warranty covers:

• 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper
• 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain
• 8 years/100,000 miles battery

Maintenance is simpler than gas cars. No oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems. Just rotate tires, check brakes (which last longer due to regenerative braking), and replace cabin air filters. Most owners spend about $500–$700 annually on maintenance—half the cost of a comparable gas car.

Comparing the 2021 Nissan EVs to Competitors

How the Leaf Stacks Up

The 2021 Nissan all electric cars compete with the Chevrolet Bolt, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Tesla Model 3. Here’s how they compare:

• Chevrolet Bolt: Similar range (259 miles), but the Leaf’s interior feels more upscale. The Bolt’s hatchback design is more practical, though.
• Hyundai Kona Electric: Slightly more range (258 miles), but the Leaf’s ProPILOT Assist is more advanced than Hyundai’s driver aids.
• Tesla Model 3: The Model 3 wins on range (up to 353 miles) and tech, but it’s pricier. The Leaf is a better budget choice.

Bottom line: The Leaf is ideal for buyers who want value, simplicity, and Nissan’s reputation without breaking the bank.

Price and Incentives: The Hidden Savings

The 2021 Leaf starts at $31,670 (before incentives), while the Leaf Plus starts at $38,670. But here’s the kicker: Federal tax credits of up to $7,500 (if you qualify) and state/local incentives can slash thousands off the price. For example, California offers an additional $2,000 rebate. Check afdc.energy.gov for details.

Tip: Leasing can be a smart move. Nissan often offers low APR leases, and you avoid long-term battery degradation concerns.

Who Should Buy a 2021 Nissan All-Electric Car?

The Ideal Nissan EV Driver

Nissan’s 2021 EVs are perfect for:

• Urban commuters: Short trips, easy charging, and zero tailpipe emissions.
• Eco-conscious families: Spacious interiors and low operating costs.
• First-time EV buyers: User-friendly tech and a smooth learning curve.

But if you regularly drive 200+ miles daily or live in a rural area with sparse charging infrastructure, you might want to wait for Nissan’s upcoming Ariya SUV (which promises 300+ miles of range).

Final Verdict: A Solid Choice for 2021

The 2021 Nissan Leaf and Leaf Plus aren’t perfect—the infotainment system could be better, and fast charging isn’t as widespread as Tesla’s Superchargers. But they deliver where it counts: affordability, reliability, and everyday practicality. Whether you’re new to EVs or upgrading from an older model, Nissan’s 2021 lineup proves that going electric doesn’t have to be complicated.

So, what’s the takeaway? If you’re looking for a Nissan all electric car 2021 that’s fun to drive, easy to charge, and packed with features, the Leaf is a standout. Test drive one, and you’ll see why Nissan remains a leader in the EV space. Just remember: The future of driving is electric—and it’s already here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top Nissan all electric cars 2021 models available?

The top 2021 Nissan all-electric car is the Nissan Leaf, offered in Leaf and Leaf Plus trims. Both models deliver zero-emission driving with updated tech and improved range, making them practical for daily commutes and city driving.

How does the 2021 Nissan Leaf’s range compare to other electric vehicles?

The 2021 Nissan Leaf offers up to 149 miles on the standard model and 226 miles with the Leaf Plus battery. While not the longest in class, it remains competitive for urban drivers and short-distance travelers.

What charging options are available for Nissan all electric cars 2021?

The 2021 Nissan Leaf supports Level 1 (120V), Level 2 (240V), and DC fast charging. Using a DC fast charger, the Leaf Plus can reach 80% charge in about 45 minutes, ideal for quick top-ups on the go.

Does the 2021 Nissan Leaf come with advanced safety features?

Yes, the 2021 Nissan Leaf includes Nissan Safety Shield 360 as standard, featuring automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. ProPILOT Assist is also available for semi-autonomous highway driving.

What unique features do Nissan all electric cars 2021 offer for convenience?

The 2021 Leaf boasts Nissan’s e-Pedal, allowing one-pedal driving for acceleration and braking. It also includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an intuitive infotainment system with EV-specific energy monitoring tools.

Is the 2021 Nissan Leaf eligible for federal or state EV incentives?

Yes, the 2021 Nissan Leaf qualifies for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, depending on your tax liability. Many states also offer additional rebates or incentives for purchasing all-electric vehicles like the Leaf.