Nissan Leaf Electric Car Review 2024 Performance and Features

The 2024 Nissan Leaf delivers impressive value as an affordable, eco-friendly EV with a refined ride and up to 212 miles of range. Its updated tech suite—including ProPILOT Assist and a user-friendly infotainment system—makes it a standout in the compact electric segment, though charging speeds lag behind rivals.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: 2024 Leaf offers up to 212 miles on a single charge.
• Quick acceleration: Instant torque delivers smooth, responsive city and highway driving.
• Advanced safety: ProPILOT Assist enhances highway driving with adaptive cruise and lane-keeping.
• User-friendly tech: 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard.
• Affordable pricing: Competitive MSRP with strong federal and state EV incentives available.
• Regen braking: e-Pedal enables one-pedal driving for improved efficiency and control.

The Nissan Leaf Electric Car: A 2024 Revolution in Affordable EVs

The electric vehicle (EV) market has evolved at breakneck speed, and the Nissan Leaf remains a cornerstone of this transformation. As the world’s best-selling electric car for much of its lifespan, the Leaf has consistently delivered on its promise of accessible, eco-friendly transportation. Now in 2024, the Nissan Leaf returns with a refined package that balances practicality, performance, and price. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer or looking to downsize from a larger vehicle, the Leaf’s reputation for reliability and innovation makes it a compelling choice in a crowded market.

What sets the 2024 Leaf apart is its evolution from a niche eco-warrior to a well-rounded electric car that addresses the concerns of everyday drivers. With improved range, updated technology, and a design that’s both functional and stylish, Nissan has addressed many of the shortcomings that plagued earlier generations. This comprehensive review dives deep into the 2024 Nissan Leaf’s performance, features, and real-world usability. From its cutting-edge battery tech to its driver assistance systems, we’ll examine why this affordable EV continues to hold its own against newer, flashier competitors.

Design and Exterior: Modern Meets Practical

Fresh Styling with a Nod to the Future

The 2024 Nissan Leaf sports a more modern and aerodynamic design compared to its predecessors. The front fascia now features Nissan’s signature “V-Motion” grille, albeit closed off since there’s no need for engine cooling. The LED headlights are sleeker and wrap around the corners, improving visibility and giving the car a wider, more planted stance. The floating roof design, achieved through blacked-out pillars, adds a touch of premium styling that was previously missing.

At the rear, the Leaf features full-width LED taillights that create a distinctive light signature at night. The hatchback design remains, offering easy access to the cargo area. Nissan has also introduced new wheel designs, including 17-inch aluminum alloys on higher trims, which contribute to the car’s improved efficiency. The overall look is more cohesive and modern, with a drag coefficient of 0.29 – a significant improvement that aids in extending the range.

Color Options and Personalization

Nissan offers the Leaf in six exterior colors for 2024, including:

• Deep Blue Pearl – A deep, rich blue that highlights the car’s curves
• Gun Metallic – A sophisticated gray with a metallic sheen
• Scarlet Ember Tintcoat – A vibrant red that stands out in traffic
• Glacier White – A clean, classic white
• Sunset Drift ChromaFlair – A new color that shifts between orange and purple depending on the light
• Super Black – A deep, glossy black

For those who want to add a personal touch, Nissan offers optional two-tone paint schemes, allowing the roof to be painted in black or white to contrast with the body color. This is a small but effective way to customize your Leaf without breaking the bank.

Practical Features for Daily Driving

Beyond aesthetics, the 2024 Leaf includes several practical features designed to make daily life easier:

• Power liftgate – Available on higher trims, this feature is a godsend when your hands are full.
• Heated outside mirrors – Standard on all models, these keep your view clear in cold weather.
• Automatic headlights and wipers – The car senses when it’s dark or raining and activates these features accordingly.
• LED fog lights – Improved visibility in poor weather conditions.
• Roof rails – Optional on SV and SL trims, these allow you to carry bikes, kayaks, or roof boxes.

One standout feature is the e-Pedal, which allows for one-pedal driving. When activated, the car slows down significantly when you lift off the accelerator, and in many situations, you can come to a complete stop without using the brake pedal. This not only simplifies driving but also maximizes regenerative braking, helping to extend the range.

Interior and Technology: A Tech-Savvy Cabin

Spacious and Comfortable Seating

Step inside the 2024 Nissan Leaf, and you’re greeted by a cabin that’s both functional and comfortable. The seats are supportive, with cloth upholstery standard on the base model and Nissan’s “Prima-Tex” synthetic leather available on higher trims. The front seats offer ample adjustability, including lumbar support on the SL trim. Rear passengers benefit from a flat floor, thanks to the electric powertrain, which provides more legroom than many competitors in this class.

Heated front seats are standard on SV and SL trims, and the SL adds heated rear seats – a welcome feature for families or those who frequently drive with passengers. The driver’s seat is also power-adjustable on higher trims, making it easier to find the perfect driving position. The steering wheel is leather-wrapped and heated on the SL, adding a touch of luxury.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Leaf’s infotainment system has been overhauled for 2024, with a focus on usability and integration. The centerpiece is an 8-inch touchscreen display (upgradable to 9 inches on the SL trim) that runs Nissan’s latest NissanConnect software. The interface is intuitive, with large, easy-to-read icons and quick response times. Key features include:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – Both are standard, with wireless connectivity on higher trims.
• Nissan Door to Door Navigation – Allows you to set a destination on your phone and seamlessly transfer it to the car’s nav system.
• Bluetooth connectivity – Supports two phones simultaneously.
• Six-speaker audio system – Standard, with a Bose premium audio system available on the SL trim.
• Over-the-air updates – Keeps the software and maps up to date without visiting a dealership.

The instrument cluster is a 7-inch digital display that can be customized to show different information, such as battery level, range, and energy flow. It’s clear and easy to read, even in bright sunlight.

Climate Control and Air Quality

The 2024 Leaf features an advanced climate control system that’s both efficient and effective. The standard automatic climate control adjusts the temperature based on the sun’s position, helping to keep the cabin comfortable. Higher trims add dual-zone climate control, allowing the driver and front passenger to set their own temperatures.

One standout feature is the Climate Ctrl function, which allows you to precondition the cabin while the car is still plugged in. This means you can heat or cool the interior before you get in, using grid power instead of battery power – a smart way to preserve range. The system also includes a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, which helps to remove allergens and pollutants from the cabin air.

Storage and Practicality

The Leaf’s hatchback design provides a spacious cargo area – 23.6 cubic feet with the rear seats up, expanding to 30 cubic feet when folded. The floor is flat, making it easy to load large items. The rear seats split 60/40, adding flexibility for carrying both passengers and cargo. Under the hood, there’s a small front trunk (frunk) that’s perfect for storing charging cables or groceries.

Interior storage is well thought out, with large door pockets, a center console bin, and a glovebox. The SL trim adds a wireless charging pad for compatible phones, which is conveniently located in the center console.

Performance and Driving Dynamics: Smooth and Responsive

Powertrain Options and Range

The 2024 Nissan Leaf is offered in two main variants, each with a different powertrain and range:

Model	Battery Capacity	Horsepower	Torque (lb-ft)	Estimated Range (EPA)
Leaf S	40 kWh	147 hp	236 lb-ft	149 miles
Leaf SV/SL	62 kWh	214 hp	250 lb-ft	212 miles

The base Leaf S is ideal for city drivers with short commutes, while the Leaf SV and SL are better suited for those who need more range or frequently take longer trips. The 62 kWh battery pack represents a significant improvement over the previous 40 kWh version, offering nearly 50% more range without a substantial increase in price.

Both models use a single electric motor driving the front wheels, which provides smooth, instant acceleration. The Leaf SV and SL, with their higher horsepower, can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.5 seconds – quick enough for most driving situations. The base model is slightly slower, at around 7.5 seconds, but still feels responsive in everyday driving.

Charging Options and Times

One of the Leaf’s strengths is its flexibility when it comes to charging. All models support:

• Level 1 (120V) – Standard household outlet. Takes about 40 hours for a full charge on the 40 kWh model and 60 hours on the 62 kWh model. Useful for occasional use or emergencies.
• Level 2 (240V) – Home or public charging stations. Takes about 8 hours for the 40 kWh model and 11 hours for the 62 kWh model. Recommended for daily charging.
• DC Fast Charging (50 kW) – Available on SV and SL trims. Can charge the 62 kWh battery from 15% to 80% in about 45 minutes. The base model is limited to 30 kW, which takes about 60 minutes for the same charge.

Nissan includes a CHAdeMO charging port on all Leaf models, which is compatible with most public fast chargers. The company also offers a Nissan Charging Network app, which helps you locate nearby charging stations and check their availability.

Driving Experience and Handling

The Leaf’s electric powertrain delivers a quiet, smooth driving experience. There’s no engine noise, and the car accelerates quickly from a stop, making it well-suited for city driving. The steering is light but precise, and the suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and potholes with ease. The car feels stable at highway speeds, with minimal wind and road noise.

The e-Pedal feature deserves special mention. When enabled, it allows for one-pedal driving, where lifting off the accelerator slows the car down significantly. In stop-and-go traffic, this reduces driver fatigue and maximizes regenerative braking, helping to extend the range. For those who prefer traditional driving, the e-Pedal can be turned off, and the car will coast when you lift off the accelerator.

Regenerative braking is strong but not overly aggressive, striking a good balance between efficiency and drivability. The Leaf also features three driving modes:

• Standard – Balanced performance and efficiency.
• Eco – Softens throttle response and reduces climate control output to maximize range.
• B (Brake) – Increases regenerative braking, which is useful on downhill stretches.

Safety and Driver Assistance: Peace of Mind on the Road

Standard Safety Features

The 2024 Leaf comes with a comprehensive suite of safety features, many of which are standard across all trims. These include:

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) – Detects vehicles and pedestrians and applies the brakes if the driver doesn’t respond in time.
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) – Alerts the driver if the car begins to drift out of its lane.
• Blind Spot Warning (BSW) – Warns of vehicles in the blind spots when changing lanes.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) – Detects approaching vehicles when backing out of parking spaces.
• High Beam Assist – Automatically switches between high and low beams based on surrounding traffic.
• Rear Door Alert – Reminds the driver to check the rear seats for children or pets after turning off the car.

The Leaf also features a robust body structure with high-strength steel, designed to absorb and disperse impact energy in the event of a collision. All models come with eight airbags, including side-curtain airbags for both rows.

ProPILOT Assist and Advanced Tech

Higher trims (SV and SL) add Nissan ProPILOT Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system that combines adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. This system can:

• Maintain a set distance from the car ahead.
• Keep the car centered in its lane on highways.
• Bring the car to a complete stop and resume driving in traffic.

ProPILOT Assist is not a hands-free system – the driver must keep their hands on the wheel and remain attentive – but it significantly reduces driver fatigue on long trips or in heavy traffic. The system uses a combination of cameras and radar to monitor the road ahead, and it’s surprisingly effective at maintaining lane position even on curved roads.

Other advanced features available on the SL trim include:

• Intelligent Around View Monitor – Provides a 360-degree view of the car’s surroundings, useful for parking in tight spaces.
• Traffic Sign Recognition – Reads speed limit signs and displays them in the instrument cluster.
• Driver Attention Alert – Monitors steering inputs and alerts the driver if it detects signs of drowsiness.

Crash Test Ratings and Reliability

The Leaf has earned top marks in crash tests by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a “Top Safety Pick” by the IIHS, thanks to its strong performance in all crashworthiness categories.

Nissan’s reputation for reliability is another plus. The Leaf has a track record of dependable performance, and the 2024 model includes an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty, giving buyers peace of mind. The company also offers a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, which covers most components of the car.

Value and Ownership: The Total Cost of Driving Electric

Pricing and Trims

The 2024 Nissan Leaf is priced competitively, with three main trim levels:

• Leaf S – Starting at $28,040 (40 kWh battery, 149-mile range)
• Leaf SV – Starting at $31,040 (62 kWh battery, 212-mile range)
• Leaf SL – Starting at $37,040 (62 kWh battery, 212-mile range)

All prices are before any federal or state tax incentives, which can reduce the cost by up to $7,500 (federal) and additional amounts depending on your location. For example, in California, buyers may be eligible for an additional $2,000 rebate, bringing the effective price of the base Leaf S down to around $18,500.

Compared to competitors like the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Kia Niro EV, the Leaf offers a strong value proposition, especially when factoring in its standard features and proven reliability.

Operating Costs and Incentives

One of the biggest advantages of owning an EV is the low operating cost. Here’s how the Leaf stacks up:

• Charging costs – Assuming an average electricity rate of $0.14 per kWh, a full charge on the 62 kWh battery costs about $8.68, providing 212 miles of range. This works out to about $0.04 per mile, compared to $0.12 per mile for a gasoline car averaging 30 mpg.
• Maintenance – With no oil changes, spark plugs, or transmission fluid to worry about, EV maintenance is significantly cheaper. The Leaf’s annual maintenance cost is estimated at $300, about half that of a comparable gasoline car.
• Tax incentives – As mentioned, federal and state incentives can reduce the purchase price substantially. Some states also offer perks like HOV lane access, reduced registration fees, and free parking.

Resale Value and Depreciation

Historically, EVs have suffered from rapid depreciation, but the Leaf has held its value better than many competitors. According to industry data, a 2024 Leaf is expected to retain about 50% of its value after three years, which is on par with the industry average for EVs. Factors that help maintain resale value include:

• Battery health – The Leaf’s battery degradation is minimal, with most owners reporting 10-15% capacity loss after 100,000 miles.
• Reliability – The Leaf’s reputation for dependability makes it a desirable used car.
• Demand – As more drivers switch to EVs, demand for affordable, reliable models like the Leaf is increasing.

For those who plan to keep the car long-term, the Leaf’s low operating costs and strong warranty coverage make it an excellent choice. Even for short-term ownership, the combination of incentives and decent resale value helps to offset the initial purchase price.

Conclusion: The Nissan Leaf in 2024 – A Smart Choice for the Future

The 2024 Nissan Leaf proves that electric cars don’t have to be expensive or impractical. With its improved range, updated technology, and competitive pricing, the Leaf offers a compelling package for a wide range of buyers. Whether you’re a city dweller with short commutes or a suburban driver with longer trips, there’s a Leaf trim to suit your needs.

What sets the Leaf apart is its balance of features and value. While it may not have the flashy tech of a Tesla or the luxury of a BMW i3, the Leaf delivers where it matters most: reliability, affordability, and real-world usability. The addition of ProPILOT Assist, improved charging options, and a more spacious interior address many of the criticisms leveled at earlier models, making the 2024 Leaf the most well-rounded version yet.

For those considering an EV, the Nissan Leaf should be at the top of your list. It’s a car that makes the transition to electric driving easy, with minimal compromise. The lower operating costs, tax incentives, and peace of mind from Nissan’s strong warranty coverage add up to significant long-term savings. And with its proven track record and continuous improvements, the Leaf is not just a smart choice for today – it’s a smart choice for the future of transportation.

In a world where sustainability is increasingly important, the 2024 Nissan Leaf stands out as a practical, accessible, and enjoyable way to reduce your carbon footprint. It’s not just an electric car; it’s a statement that you can drive green without sacrificing comfort, convenience, or value. For anyone ready to make the switch to electric, the Leaf is a leaf worth turning over.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the 2024 Nissan Leaf electric car?

The 2024 Nissan Leaf offers an EPA-estimated range of up to 212 miles on the SV Plus trim with the larger 60 kWh battery. The base S model with a 40 kWh battery delivers around 149 miles, making it ideal for city commutes.

How does the 2024 Nissan Leaf perform compared to other electric cars?

The Nissan Leaf electric car provides smooth, quiet acceleration and nimble handling, though it’s less sporty than rivals like the Tesla Model 3. Its e-Pedal feature allows one-pedal driving, enhancing efficiency in urban settings.

What are the standout features of the 2024 Nissan Leaf?

The 2024 Leaf includes advanced features like ProPILOT Assist for semi-autonomous driving, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and an 8-inch touchscreen. Higher trims add premium audio, heated seats, and a 360-degree camera.

How long does it take to charge the Nissan Leaf electric car?

Using a Level 2 charger (240V), the 40 kWh Leaf charges fully in about 7.5 hours, while the 60 kWh model takes around 11.5 hours. DC fast charging can replenish 80% in 40–60 minutes, depending on the battery.

Is the 2024 Nissan Leaf a reliable electric car?

The Nissan Leaf electric car has a strong reputation for reliability, backed by a 5-year/60,000-mile warranty and 8-year/100,000-mile battery coverage. It’s one of the most affordable EVs with proven real-world durability.

What safety features does the 2024 Nissan Leaf include?

The Leaf comes standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims add ProPILOT Assist with adaptive cruise control for highway driving.