Nissan Electric Car 2021 Price Revealed Is It Worth the Cost

The 2021 Nissan electric car lineup starts at an affordable $27,280, making it one of the most budget-friendly EVs on the market. With federal tax credits potentially lowering the effective price to under $20,000, it delivers impressive value for eco-conscious drivers seeking reliability and efficiency. But despite its low entry cost, advanced features and solid range make it a compelling contender in the growing EV space.

Key Takeaways

• Competitive pricing: 2021 Nissan EV starts at $29,990, undercutting key rivals.
• Tax credits apply: Eligible for up to $7,500 federal incentive, lowering net cost.
• Trim levels vary: Higher trims offer more range but cost over $40,000.
• Charging savings: Saves $800+ annually on fuel vs. gas-powered cars.
• Resale concerns: EVs depreciate faster; consider long-term ownership.
• Tech perks included: ProPILOT Assist standard on all 2021 models.
• Lease options: Low monthly payments available, ideal for short-term use.

What’s the Real Cost of Going Electric? The 2021 Nissan EV Breakdown

Let’s be honest—when most of us hear “electric car,” the first thing that pops into our heads isn’t “smooth ride” or “eco-friendly.” It’s price. Specifically, “How much is this going to cost me?” And if you’re like me, you’ve probably stood in your garage, staring at your aging gas guzzler, wondering: Is it finally time to make the switch? The 2021 Nissan electric car lineup—especially the Nissan Leaf—has been one of the most talked-about options for budget-conscious drivers looking to go electric. But with so many models, trim levels, and incentives floating around, it’s easy to get lost in the noise.

I remember when I first started researching electric vehicles. I was overwhelmed by the jargon, the range anxiety, and yes, the price tags. I wanted something reliable, practical, and—most importantly—affordable. That’s where the 2021 Nissan Leaf entered the picture. As one of the longest-running EVs on the market, it promised a balance between value and innovation. But is the Nissan electric car 2021 price truly worth it? Or are you paying for a name and a few extra miles? In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from sticker prices and tax credits to real-world performance, charging costs, and long-term savings. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer or just curious about what Nissan brings to the table, this is your no-fluff, straight-talk guide.

2021 Nissan Electric Car Lineup: Models and Pricing at a Glance

When it comes to the 2021 Nissan electric car lineup, there’s really one star: the Nissan Leaf. But don’t let that fool you—this isn’t just one car. It comes in several trims, each with its own price point, features, and driving experience. Let’s break it down so you can see which model fits your budget and lifestyle.

Leaf S: The Entry-Level Workhorse

The Leaf S is the most affordable option in the 2021 lineup. Priced at $31,670 (before incentives), it’s the gateway to Nissan’s electric world. It comes with a 40 kWh battery and an EPA-estimated range of 149 miles. That’s not going to win any long-distance awards, but for city drivers or commuters under 50 miles a day, it’s more than enough.

Standard features include:

• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Automatic emergency braking
• Rearview camera
• 16-inch steel wheels

It’s basic, but it gets the job done. Think of it as the “starter EV”—perfect if you want to dip your toes in without a huge financial commitment.

Leaf SV: A Step Up in Comfort and Tech

At $34,920, the Leaf SV adds more creature comforts and tech. You get the same 40 kWh battery (149 miles range), but now with:

• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Heated front seats and steering wheel
• Navigation system
• ProPILOT Assist (semi-autonomous driving)
• Remote climate control via smartphone

This trim is ideal for drivers who want a little more polish and convenience. The heated seats alone make winter mornings way more bearable—trust me, I live in the Midwest.

Leaf SL: Premium Comfort and Style

For $38,520, the Leaf SL steps into premium territory. It keeps the 40 kWh battery but adds:

• Leather-trimmed seats
• Premium Bose audio system
• LED headlights and fog lights
• Rear parking sensors
• Automatic climate control

If you’re looking for a more luxurious feel without the luxury price tag, the SL is a solid choice. It’s not a Tesla, but it’s far from basic.

Leaf Plus (S, SV, SL): More Range, Slightly Higher Price

Here’s where things get interesting. The Leaf Plus models come with a larger 62 kWh battery, boosting range to 212–226 miles depending on the trim. The pricing starts at $38,270 for the Leaf Plus S, going up to $44,820 for the Leaf Plus SL.

That’s a big jump in range—almost 70 extra miles—for about $6,500 more than the base Leaf S. For drivers with longer commutes or weekend road trips, this is often the sweet spot. I’ve personally driven the Leaf Plus SV, and the extra range makes a huge difference in peace of mind.

Pro tip: If you’re on the fence, consider your average weekly driving. If you regularly go over 150 miles a week, the Plus version is probably worth the extra cost.

Breaking Down the Total Cost: Sticker Price vs. Real-World Value

Okay, so you’ve seen the sticker prices. But the Nissan electric car 2021 price isn’t just about what you pay at the dealership. There are hidden costs, savings, and incentives that can dramatically change the math. Let’s dig into the real cost of ownership.

Federal and State Incentives: The Hidden Discounts

One of the biggest perks of buying an EV in 2021 was the federal tax credit. The Nissan Leaf qualified for a $7,500 federal tax credit—but with a catch. This credit was non-refundable, meaning it only applies if you owe at least $7,500 in federal taxes that year. If you don’t, you can’t use it.

But wait—there’s more. Many states offered additional incentives. For example:

• California: Up to $2,000 rebate through the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP)
• Colorado: $5,000 tax credit
• New York: $2,000 rebate
• Texas: Up to $2,500 rebate in certain counties

When you add these up, the effective price of a base Leaf S could drop from $31,670 to $22,170 (or even lower) in high-incentive states. That’s a massive saving.

Tip: Always check your state’s Department of Energy or transportation website for current EV incentives. They change frequently, and some are first-come, first-served.

Charging Costs: Electricity vs. Gas

Let’s do a quick comparison. Say you drive 12,000 miles a year:

• Average gas car: 25 MPG, $3.50/gallon → $1,680/year in fuel
• Nissan Leaf (40 kWh battery): 3.5 miles/kWh, $0.13/kWh (national average) → $446/year in electricity

That’s a $1,234 annual saving on fuel alone. Over 5 years, you’re looking at over $6,000 saved. And if you charge at home during off-peak hours (many utilities offer lower rates), it could be even less.

Real-world example: My neighbor, Sarah, drives a Leaf S. She charges overnight at home and pays just $0.09/kWh. Her annual fuel cost? Around $380. She hasn’t bought gas in two years.

Maintenance: Fewer Parts, Lower Costs

EVs have fewer moving parts than gas cars. No oil changes, no spark plugs, no exhaust systems. The Leaf requires:

• Regular tire rotations
• Brake pad inspections (regenerative braking reduces wear)
• Cabin air filter changes
• Coolant and inverter checks (every 5–7 years)

According to Consumer Reports, the average EV owner saves $4,600 in maintenance over 5 years compared to a gas car. For the Leaf, that’s a conservative estimate.

Note: The battery is covered under warranty for 8 years/100,000 miles, so you’re protected against major degradation or failure during that time.

What You’re Paying For: Features, Range, and Tech

Now that we’ve covered the cost, let’s talk about what you’re actually getting. Is the Nissan electric car 2021 price justified by what’s under the hood—and in the cabin?

Range: Is 149–226 Miles Enough?

This is the big question. The base Leaf’s 149-mile range feels short compared to rivals like the Tesla Model 3 (263 miles) or the Chevrolet Bolt (259 miles). But let’s be real: most Americans drive less than 40 miles a day (U.S. Department of Transportation, 2020).

If your commute is 30 miles round-trip, the Leaf S gives you nearly 5 days of driving on a full charge. Even with cold weather reducing range by 20–30%, you’re still covered for daily use.

The Leaf Plus, with 212+ miles, gives you more flexibility. I took one on a 180-mile weekend trip and only had to charge once—at a fast charger along the highway. It worked perfectly.

Tip: Use apps like PlugShare or ChargeHub to plan your route and locate public chargers. Most Leaf drivers charge at home and only use public stations for longer trips.

ProPILOT Assist: Semi-Autonomous Driving

Available on SV and SL trims, ProPILOT Assist combines adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist. It’s not full self-driving, but it’s great for highway driving. I used it on a 3-hour drive and felt way less fatigued.

It works best on well-marked highways. In city traffic or heavy rain, it can be finicky. But for long stretches, it’s a game-changer.

Interior and Comfort: Practical, Not Flashy

The Leaf’s interior is functional. The base S feels a bit cheap with hard plastics, but the SV and SL trims add soft-touch materials and nicer finishes. The seats are comfortable for most body types, though tall drivers might find the headroom a bit tight.

The infotainment system is intuitive, but the 8-inch screen feels small compared to newer EVs. Still, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make it easy to use your phone’s navigation and music.

One quirk: The gear selector is a round dial, not a traditional shifter. It takes a little getting used to, but I actually like it now.

Charging Speed: Where the Leaf Falls Short

The Leaf supports DC fast charging (CHAdeMO), but it’s not the fastest. A 50 kW fast charger can take the battery from 15% to 80% in about 45 minutes. Compare that to the Tesla Model 3, which can do it in 20–25 minutes.

Also, the Leaf’s charging port is on the front grille—awkward if you’re backing into a spot. And not all public chargers use CHAdeMO (many are CCS now), so you might need an adapter.

Bottom line: It’s fine for occasional use, but not ideal if you’re always on the go.

Comparing the Competition: How Does the Leaf Stack Up?

You’re not just comparing the Nissan electric car 2021 price to other Nissans. You’re weighing it against the entire EV market. Let’s see how it holds up.

Nissan Leaf vs. Chevrolet Bolt EV

The Bolt EV was a major competitor in 2021. Priced at $36,620 (before incentives), it offered 259 miles of range and a CCS fast-charging port (faster than CHAdeMO). But it had a smaller back seat and less cargo space (16.9 cu ft vs. Leaf’s 23.6 cu ft).

Verdict: The Bolt wins on range and charging speed, but the Leaf feels more spacious and practical for families.

Nissan Leaf vs. Hyundai Kona Electric

The Kona Electric starts at $34,000 (before incentives) and offers 258 miles of range. It has a more modern interior and better tech, but the Leaf has more cargo room and a longer track record.

Verdict: The Kona is a strong contender, but the Leaf’s lower price (after incentives) and proven reliability give it an edge for budget shoppers.

Nissan Leaf vs. Tesla Model 3

The Model 3 starts at $37,990 (2021 pricing) and offers 263 miles of range, a sleek interior, and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. But it’s more expensive, and Tesla’s build quality can be inconsistent.

Verdict: The Model 3 is the premium pick, but the Leaf offers better value for the average driver.

Pro tip: Always test-drive multiple EVs. The Leaf’s ride is softer and quieter than the Bolt or Kona, which some people prefer.

Long-Term Ownership: What Happens After 5 Years?

Buying an EV isn’t just about the first year. What about depreciation, battery health, and resale value? Let’s look ahead.

Depreciation: EVs Lose Value—But How Much?

EVs depreciate faster than gas cars, but the Leaf is actually one of the better45% of its value after 3 years. That’s better than the Bolt (41%) and Kona Electric (39%).

Why? The Leaf’s lower starting price means it doesn’t have as far to fall. Also, its reputation for reliability helps.

Battery Degradation: What to Expect

All EV batteries lose capacity over time. Nissan claims the Leaf’s battery will retain at least 70% of its capacity after 8 years. Real-world data from Plug In America shows most Leafs lose about 5–8% per year in the first few years, then slow down.

That means a 2021 Leaf S might have 135–140 miles of range after 5 years—still plenty for daily use.

Tip: Avoid frequent fast charging and keep the battery between 20% and 80% when possible. This helps extend battery life.

Resale Market: Can You Sell It Later?

Used Leafs are popular because of their affordability. A 2021 Leaf Plus SV with 30,000 miles might sell for $18,000–$20,000 today (2023). That’s a good return for a 2-year-old car.

Plus, with rising gas prices, more people are looking for used EVs. The Leaf’s simplicity and low running costs make it appealing.

Is the 2021 Nissan Electric Car Price Worth It? Final Verdict

So—after all this, is the Nissan electric car 2021 price worth it? Let’s sum it up.

If you:

• Drive mostly in the city or suburbs
• Want to save on fuel and maintenance
• Can take advantage of tax credits and rebates
• Don’t need cutting-edge tech or ultra-fast charging

Then yes, absolutely. The Leaf is a smart, practical choice. The base model is affordable, the Plus versions add meaningful range, and the total cost of ownership is lower than most gas cars.

But if you:

• Regularly drive long distances
• Want the latest tech and luxury features
• Hate CHAdeMO chargers

Then you might want to look at the Bolt, Kona Electric, or even a used Tesla.

For me, the Leaf hit the sweet spot. I got the Leaf Plus SV, used my federal tax credit and state rebate, and now I’m saving over $1,000 a year on fuel and maintenance. Plus, I love not visiting gas stations.

At the end of the day, the Nissan electric car 2021 price isn’t just about the number on the window sticker. It’s about the long-term value, peace of mind, and the little joys of driving electric. And for many people, that’s worth every penny.

Data Table: 2021 Nissan Leaf Pricing and Specs

Model	Starting Price	Battery	Range (EPA)	Key Features
Leaf S	$31,670	40 kWh	149 miles	8″ touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, rearview cam
Leaf SV	$34,920	40 kWh	149 miles	ProPILOT Assist, heated seats, navigation
Leaf SL	$38,520	40 kWh	149 miles	Leather seats, Bose audio, LED lights
Leaf Plus S	$38,270	62 kWh	226 miles	Same as S, but more range
Leaf Plus SV	$41,620	62 kWh	215 miles	ProPILOT Assist, remote climate, 17″ wheels
Leaf Plus SL	$44,820	62 kWh	212 miles	Leather, Bose audio, premium package

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting price of the Nissan electric car 2021 model?

The 2021 Nissan Leaf starts at $31,620 for the base S trim, making it one of the most affordable electric vehicles in its class. Higher trims like the SV Plus and SL Plus range up to $43,920 with additional features.

Does the 2021 Nissan Leaf price vary by battery size?

Yes, the Nissan electric car 2021 price depends on the battery option. The standard 40 kWh battery comes on lower trims, while the 62 kWh battery (available on Plus models) increases the cost but delivers up to 215 miles of range.

Are there tax incentives or rebates for the 2021 Nissan Leaf?

Buyers may qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, depending on their tax liability. Some states and local utilities also offer additional rebates, reducing the effective cost of the Nissan electric car 2021 model.

How does the 2021 Nissan Leaf compare in price to other EVs?

The 2021 Leaf is competitively priced against rivals like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Hyundai Kona Electric. Its affordability, combined with Nissan’s reputation for reliability, makes it a strong value in the EV market.

What features justify the 2021 Nissan Leaf’s price tag?

Standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, automatic emergency braking, and ProPILOT Assist (on higher trims). The Nissan electric car 2021 price reflects its tech-forward approach and practical EV performance.

Is the 2021 Nissan Leaf worth the cost for long-term ownership?

With low maintenance costs, strong resale value, and energy savings, the Leaf is a cost-effective long-term choice. However, drivers needing longer range may want to consider Plus models or newer EV options.