Nissan Leaf Electric Car 2018 Review Performance and Features Unveiled

The 2018 Nissan Leaf redefines affordable electric driving with an upgraded 147-horsepower motor and a 150-mile range, delivering spirited performance and daily practicality. Packed with tech like ProPILOT Assist and e-Pedal, it blends innovation with user-friendly features, making it a standout in the compact EV segment.

Key Takeaways

• Improved range: 2018 Leaf offers 150-mile range, ideal for daily commutes.
• Quick charging: Supports 40-minute fast charging for added convenience.
• Spacious interior: Comfortable cabin with ample legroom and cargo space.
• Advanced tech: ProPILOT Assist enhances safety and highway driving ease.
• Regenerative braking: One-pedal driving boosts efficiency and reduces brake wear.
• Affordable pricing: Competitive cost with strong EV incentives available.

Nissan Leaf Electric Car 2018: A New Era of Affordable EV Innovation

The Nissan Leaf Electric Car 2018 marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of mass-market electric vehicles. As the second generation of Nissan’s flagship EV, the 2018 Leaf stepped boldly into the spotlight with a redesigned exterior, enhanced battery technology, and a suite of advanced features that addressed many of the shortcomings of its predecessor. Launched during a time when EV adoption was gaining momentum but still hindered by range anxiety and high costs, the 2018 Leaf emerged as a compelling solution—offering a balance of affordability, practicality, and innovation. With over 300,000 Leafs sold worldwide by 2018, Nissan had already proven its commitment to sustainable mobility, and this model solidified its position as a leader in the compact EV segment.

What made the 2018 Nissan Leaf truly stand out was its ability to deliver a modern electric driving experience without sacrificing value. Starting at under $30,000 before federal tax incentives, it became one of the most accessible long-range electric vehicles in its class. But beyond price, the Leaf introduced groundbreaking technologies like the e-Pedal, a one-pedal driving system that revolutionized how drivers interacted with their EVs. Coupled with a more aerodynamic design, a refined interior, and improved driving dynamics, the 2018 Leaf wasn’t just an incremental update—it was a reimagining of what an everyday electric car could be. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the performance, features, and real-world usability of the Nissan Leaf Electric Car 2018, uncovering what made it a game-changer in the EV landscape.

Design and Exterior: A Modern, Aerodynamic Evolution

Styling That Balances Function and Flair

The 2018 Nissan Leaf shed the quirky, futuristic look of its first-generation model in favor of a more mainstream, aerodynamic design. The new exterior was a masterclass in blending form and function: a sharply creased hood, a distinctive V-Motion grille (a nod to Nissan’s ICE lineup), and boomerang-shaped LED headlights gave the Leaf a confident, modern presence. The sloped roofline and tapered rear end weren’t just for show—they contributed to a drag coefficient of just 0.28 Cd, a 10% improvement over the 2017 model, which directly enhanced energy efficiency and extended range.

Designers also prioritized practicality. The 17-inch alloy wheels (standard on SV and SL trims) were optimized to reduce turbulence, while the flush-mounted door handles and underbody panels minimized air resistance. Even the placement of the charging port—on the front fender—was rethought for easier access, especially in tight parking spaces. A practical example: urban commuters appreciated the 360-degree camera system (standard on SL trim), which made parallel parking a breeze in crowded city environments.

Color Options and Customization

Nissan offered the 2018 Leaf in six exterior colors: Brilliant Silver, Gun Metallic, Deep Blue Pearl, Super Black, Pearl White, and the standout **Scarlet Ember**—a bold, metallic red that quickly became a favorite among buyers. The color palette was carefully curated to appeal to both conservative and adventurous tastes, with metallic finishes enhancing the car’s premium feel. Inside, the Leaf featured a two-tone interior (black with gray accents) on higher trims, while the base S model had a more utilitarian all-black scheme. For drivers wanting to personalize their Leaf, Nissan offered optional accessories like roof racks and cargo organizers, making it a versatile choice for weekend adventures.

Interior Comfort and Technology: Where Innovation Meets Practicality

Cabin Space and Ergonomics

Stepping inside the 2018 Leaf, drivers were greeted by a surprisingly spacious and thoughtfully laid-out cabin. The front seats provided excellent support, with ample legroom (42.1 inches) for taller drivers—a notable upgrade from previous models. Rear passengers benefited from 33.3 inches of legroom, making the Leaf competitive with rivals like the Chevrolet Bolt. The flat floor (thanks to the EV platform) allowed for easier entry and exit, while the elevated seating position offered a commanding view of the road. For families, the Leaf’s 23.6 cubic feet of cargo space (expandable to 30 cubic feet with seats folded) made it ideal for grocery runs or road trips.

Ergonomic touches abounded: the steering wheel was tilt/telescopic-adjustable, and the center console housed a wireless phone charging pad (standard on SV and SL trims). A small but impactful detail was the repositioned gear selector, which freed up space for a larger center armrest—a win for long-distance comfort. Pro tip: Use the Leaf’s “Eco” driving mode (activated via a dashboard button) to reduce HVAC energy consumption, preserving battery life during extended stops.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2018 Leaf’s tech suite was headlined by a 7-inch touchscreen (standard on SV and SL) with NissanConnect, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. While the base S trim had a 5-inch screen without smartphone integration, the upgrade was well worth the price difference for tech-savvy buyers. The system responded quickly to inputs, and the intuitive menu layout made it easy to navigate navigation, audio, and climate controls. A standout feature was the **NissanConnect EV app**, which allowed remote access to charging status, climate pre-conditioning, and even a “Find My Car” function via smartphone.

Audio quality was another highlight. The SL trim’s 7-speaker Bose premium sound system delivered crisp highs and deep bass, transforming the Leaf into a rolling concert hall. For example, during a 2-hour commute, the system’s noise-canceling technology (which used cabin microphones to counteract road noise) made podcasts and audiobooks feel immersive. Bonus: The Leaf’s climate control system could be pre-heated or cooled while charging, a game-changer for drivers in extreme climates.

Performance and Driving Experience: Power, Precision, and the e-Pedal Revolution

Powertrain and Acceleration

Under the hood, the 2018 Leaf packed a 147-horsepower electric motor and a 40 kWh lithium-ion battery, delivering 236 lb-ft of torque—enough for a 0-60 mph time of 7.4 seconds (tested by Car and Driver). This was a significant improvement over the 2017 model’s 107-hp motor, offering brisk acceleration that felt effortless in city traffic. The instant torque characteristic of EVs meant merging onto highways was stress-free, and the Leaf’s 8.4-second 5-60 mph time (accounting for rollout) was on par with compact ICE sedans. For context, the Leaf could outpace a Honda Civic Si in stoplight sprints, a testament to its electric muscle.

The e-Pedal: One-Pedal Driving Redefined

The most revolutionary feature of the 2018 Leaf was the e-Pedal, which allowed drivers to accelerate, decelerate, and stop using only the accelerator. When activated (via a dashboard button), the e-Pedal increased regenerative braking to the point where lifting off the gas brought the car to a near-complete stop—without touching the brake pedal. This not only simplified driving but also extended brake pad life by up to 90% (per Nissan’s estimates). Real-world example: In stop-and-go traffic, e-Pedal users reported a 15% reduction in energy consumption by maximizing regenerative braking.

For beginners, the system had a learning curve, but Nissan included a tutorial in the infotainment system. Advanced users could fine-tune regen intensity using paddle shifters, a feature borrowed from performance EVs. Pro tip: Use e-Pedal in “B” mode (activated via the gear selector) for maximum regen in hilly areas, like San Francisco’s steep streets.

Handling and Ride Quality

The Leaf’s MacPherson strut front and torsion beam rear suspension struck a balance between comfort and control. On smooth roads, the ride was plush, with minimal body roll in corners. However, on rough pavement, the 17-inch wheels transmitted some jolts—a trade-off for the improved efficiency. The steering was light and precise, making parking effortless, though enthusiasts might crave more feedback. For daily driving, the Leaf excelled: its 37.4-foot turning radius allowed for easy U-turns, and the low center of gravity (thanks to the underfloor battery) minimized sway on winding roads.

Range, Charging, and Efficiency: Real-World Usability

EPA Range and Energy Consumption

The 2018 Leaf’s 40 kWh battery delivered an EPA-estimated 150 miles of range—a 35% increase over the 2017 model. In real-world tests, drivers achieved 130-140 miles in mixed conditions (city/highway), with cold weather reducing range by ~20% (common to all EVs). The car’s energy efficiency was impressive: 30 kWh/100 miles (combined), translating to a cost of $4.50 per 100 miles (at $0.15/kWh). For comparison, a 30 mpg gas car would cost ~$13.30 per 100 miles (at $4/gallon).

Charging Options and Times

The Leaf supported three charging levels:

• Level 1 (120V): 15-20 hours for a full charge (ideal for overnight).
• Level 2 (240V): 7.5 hours with a 3.6 kW onboard charger (standard) or 4 hours with an optional 6.6 kW charger.
• DC Fast Charging (CHAdeMO): 30-40 minutes to 80% (standard on SV/SL trims).

A practical example: A commuter driving 40 miles daily could recharge fully overnight using a Level 2 station, while road-trippers could top up at public fast chargers (like those in Nissan’s “No Charge to Charge” program).

Data Table: Charging Comparison

Charging Type	Power	Time to Full	Best For
Level 1	120V/15A	15-20 hours	Overnight charging
Level 2	240V/30A	4-7.5 hours	Home/work charging
DC Fast	50 kW	30-40 minutes (to 80%)	Road trips

Safety and Reliability: Peace of Mind in an EV

Standard and Optional Safety Tech

The 2018 Leaf earned a 5-star NHTSA safety rating and was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. Standard safety features included:

• Automatic emergency braking (AEB)
• Lane departure warning
• Blind-spot monitoring (SV/SL trims)
• Rear cross-traffic alert

The Nissan Safety Shield 360 package (optional on SV, standard on SL) added rear automatic braking and high-beam assist. In crash tests, the Leaf’s high-strength steel frame and 8 airbags provided robust protection—the IIHS rated its small overlap front test “Good,” the highest possible score.

Reliability and Ownership Costs

Nissan’s 5-year/60,000-mile warranty covered the battery and drivetrain, with 8-year/100,000-mile battery degradation protection (guaranteeing 70% capacity retention). Real-world data from Consumer Reports showed the 2018 Leaf had average reliability, with few major issues reported. Common complaints included:

• Minor software glitches (fixed via over-the-air updates)
• Premature brake wear (mitigated by e-Pedal use)

Ownership costs were low: $650/year (vs. $850 for comparable ICE cars), thanks to minimal maintenance (no oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems).

Conclusion: The 2018 Nissan Leaf’s Lasting Legacy

The Nissan Leaf Electric Car 2018 wasn’t just a car—it was a statement. It proved that affordable EVs could be practical, innovative, and fun to drive. From its aerodynamic redesign to the revolutionary e-Pedal, the Leaf addressed the pain points of early adopters while welcoming new drivers to the EV revolution. While it faced stiff competition from the Tesla Model 3 and Chevrolet Bolt, the Leaf’s combination of price, range, and Nissan’s extensive dealer network made it a compelling choice for millions.

Today, the 2018 Leaf remains a smart buy in the used market, offering 80% of the performance of newer EVs at half the price. For eco-conscious buyers, it’s a gateway to sustainable driving; for tech enthusiasts, a playground of EV innovation. As Nissan continues to evolve the Leaf (now with 212-mile and 300-mile variants), the 2018 model stands as a testament to how far EVs have come—and a reminder that the future of mobility is electric, accessible, and exhilarating. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a weekend explorer, the 2018 Leaf proves that going electric isn’t a compromise—it’s an upgrade.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the 2018 Nissan Leaf electric car?

The 2018 Nissan Leaf offers an EPA-estimated range of 150 miles on a full charge, thanks to its 40 kWh lithium-ion battery. This makes it ideal for daily commutes and urban driving.

How does the 2018 Nissan Leaf perform compared to other EVs?

The 2018 Nissan Leaf delivers smooth acceleration with its 147-horsepower electric motor and 236 lb-ft of torque, outperforming many entry-level EVs in responsiveness. Its lightweight design and regenerative braking system enhance overall efficiency.

What charging options does the 2018 Nissan Leaf support?

The 2018 Nissan Leaf supports both Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging, with a full charge taking 7.5 hours on Level 2. It also features optional DC fast charging, which can replenish the battery to 80% in about 30 minutes.

Does the 2018 Nissan Leaf include advanced safety features?

Yes, the 2018 Nissan Leaf includes Nissan’s Safety Shield suite, featuring automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features enhance driver confidence in various road conditions.

What are the standout tech features in the 2018 Nissan Leaf?

The 2018 Nissan Leaf boasts a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a customizable driver display. Its e-Pedal mode allows one-pedal driving, simplifying stop-and-go traffic.

Is the 2018 Nissan Leaf a good value for an electric car?

The 2018 Nissan Leaf provides excellent value with its affordable pricing, low maintenance costs, and strong standard features. Its blend of practicality, tech, and eco-friendly performance makes it a top contender in the EV market.