What Is the Price of a Nissan Electric Car in 2024

In 2024, Nissan electric cars offer competitive pricing, with the Nissan LEAF starting around $28,000 and the newer Ariya SUV ranging from $43,000 to $60,000 depending on trim and battery size. These prices reflect federal tax credits and growing affordability, making Nissan a strong contender in the expanding EV market. With advanced features, solid range, and lower maintenance costs, Nissan’s electric lineup delivers compelling value for eco-conscious drivers.

Key Takeaways

• Nissan Leaf starts under $30,000: Affordable entry point for electric driving in 2024.
• Ariya begins around $43,000: Higher trim levels offer longer range and premium features.
• Federal tax credits may apply: Check eligibility to reduce upfront cost significantly.
• State incentives can lower price further: Explore local rebates for additional savings.
• Charging costs less than gas: Long-term savings on fuel and maintenance.
• Resale value varies by model: Leaf holds value well; Ariya depreciation still stabilizing.
• Compare trims carefully: Higher-end models offer better range and tech for the price.

Why the Price of a Nissan Electric Car Might Surprise You in 2024

Let’s be honest—when most people think about electric cars, they imagine sleek Teslas gliding down the highway or futuristic concepts from luxury automakers. But here’s a little secret: Nissan has quietly been a pioneer in affordable electric mobility for over a decade. The Nissan Leaf, launched in 2010, was one of the first mass-market EVs, and today, Nissan continues to offer practical, budget-friendly electric vehicles that don’t sacrifice reliability. If you’re wondering, “What is the price of a Nissan electric car in 2024?”, you’re not alone. With rising gas prices, environmental concerns, and government incentives, more drivers are seriously considering EVs—and Nissan is still one of the most accessible entry points.

I remember when I first test-drove a Nissan Leaf. I expected a cramped, underpowered car with limited range. Instead, I was greeted with a surprisingly spacious interior, smooth acceleration, and a price tag that made me do a double-take. That experience stuck with me. In 2024, the landscape has evolved, but Nissan’s commitment to affordability and innovation remains. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer, a city commuter, or a family looking to cut fuel costs, understanding the real price of a Nissan electric car—factoring in upfront cost, incentives, charging, and long-term savings—is crucial. Let’s dive in and break down what you can expect to pay, what you get for your money, and how Nissan stacks up in a competitive market.

2024 Nissan Electric Car Lineup: Models and Base Prices

As of 2024, Nissan offers a focused but growing lineup of electric vehicles. While Tesla and other brands boast multiple models, Nissan keeps it simple with two primary EVs: the Nissan Leaf and the all-new Nissan Ariya. Both cater to different needs and budgets, so let’s unpack each model’s pricing, starting with the most affordable and moving to the premium end.

Nissan Leaf: The Budget-Friendly EV Pioneer

The Nissan Leaf remains the brand’s most affordable electric car and a solid choice for urban drivers and budget-conscious buyers. In 2024, the Leaf comes in two main trims:

• Leaf S (40 kWh battery): Starting at $28,140 (MSRP)
• Leaf SV Plus (62 kWh battery): Starting at $36,190 (MSRP)

The base Leaf S is ideal for short commutes—think 150 miles of range, perfect for city errands, school runs, or daily office drives. It’s basic but functional: cloth seats, 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 (automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, etc.). The SV Plus, with its larger battery, pushes range to around 212 miles, making it a better fit for suburban drivers or those with longer daily drives. It also includes upgraded infotainment, heated seats, and a power driver’s seat.

One thing I love about the Leaf? Its “e-Pedal” feature—a single-pedal driving mode that lets you accelerate and brake using just the accelerator. It takes some getting used to, but once you master it, it’s incredibly intuitive and reduces brake wear.

Nissan Ariya: The Premium Crossover with More Range and Space

Enter the Ariya—Nissan’s first dedicated electric crossover, built on a new EV platform. It’s a game-changer. With a modern design, spacious cabin, and advanced tech, the Ariya competes with the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Tesla Model Y. In 2024, the Ariya comes in several trims and configurations:

• Ariya Engage (FWD, 63 kWh): $39,590
• Ariya Venture+ (FWD, 87 kWh): $47,190
• Ariya Evolve+ (FWD, 87 kWh): $50,190
• Ariya Platinum+ (FWD, 87 kWh): $54,190
• Ariya Platinum+ (AWD, 87 kWh): $58,190

The base Engage trim offers 216 miles of range—perfect for most drivers. But if you want more, the Venture+ and higher trims deliver 304 miles (FWD) and 272 miles (AWD) on a single charge. The AWD version uses dual motors and is great for snowy climates or those who want extra traction.

Inside, the Ariya feels luxurious. The “Zero Gravity” seats are some of the most comfortable I’ve tried, and the dual 12.3-inch screens (digital gauge cluster and infotainment) give it a high-tech vibe. The cabin is quiet, spacious, and loaded with features like wireless charging, a panoramic sunroof (on higher trims), and Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist 2.0 for semi-autonomous highway driving.

Pro tip: If you’re considering the Ariya, the Venture+ trim offers the best value—304 miles of range, heated front seats, and a power liftgate for under $48K.

Hidden Costs and Real-World Ownership Expenses

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the sticker price isn’t the whole story. When you ask, “What is the price of a Nissan electric car?”, you’re really asking about the total cost of ownership. Beyond the MSRP, there are several factors that affect how much you’ll actually spend.

Destination Fees and Dealer Markups

Nissan’s official MSRP includes a destination fee (around $1,095), but beware: in high-demand areas, dealerships may add “market adjustments” or “documentation fees.” I’ve seen Leaf SV Plus models advertised at $38K due to dealer markups—even though the MSRP is $36K. Always ask for an out-the-door price before signing. Some states (like California and Texas) have laws limiting these fees, but others don’t. A little research can save you thousands.

Charging Equipment and Installation

Most Nissan EVs come with a Level 1 charger (120V), which is fine for overnight charging but slow. For faster charging, you’ll want a Level 2 home charger (240V). These typically cost $500–$800, plus $800–$1,500 for professional installation (depending on your home’s electrical setup).

Here’s a real example: My neighbor installed a ChargePoint Home Flex (240V, 48A) for $750 and paid $1,200 for an electrician to upgrade her panel. Total: ~$1,950. But she recouped that cost in about two years through lower electricity bills. Many utilities also offer rebates—check with your provider. For example, Southern California Edison gives up to $2,000 back for charger installation.

Insurance, Maintenance, and Depreciation

EVs often have higher insurance premiums (due to expensive batteries), but Nissan’s reliability keeps costs in check. The Leaf, for instance, has lower-than-average insurance rates compared to other EVs. Maintenance is another win: no oil changes, fewer moving parts, and regenerative braking reduces brake wear. Expect to pay about 30–40% less on maintenance over 5 years vs. a gas car.

Depreciation? The Leaf has historically lost value faster than gas-powered Nissans, but the Ariya holds value better. In 2024, the Ariya’s stronger demand and newer platform help—expect 55–60% residual value after 3 years, similar to the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

Federal and State Incentives: How to Slash Your Nissan EV Cost

Here’s where things get exciting. The price of a Nissan electric car drops significantly when you factor in incentives. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), you may qualify for a federal tax credit, and many states offer additional rebates and perks.

Federal Tax Credit: Up to $7,500

As of 2024, the full $7,500 federal tax credit applies to the Nissan Leaf (all trims) and the Nissan Ariya (FWD models only). AWD Ariya trims currently do not qualify due to battery sourcing rules, but that could change. The credit is a non-refundable tax credit, meaning you must owe at least $7,500 in federal taxes to use it. If you don’t, the credit rolls over to future years.

Pro tip: You can now transfer the credit to the dealer at point of sale (starting in 2024), reducing your out-of-pocket cost immediately. For example, a $36,190 Leaf SV Plus becomes $28,690 after the $7,500 credit. That’s a 20% discount!

State and Local Incentives

Many states go even further. Here are a few standout examples:

• California: $2,000 Clean Vehicle Rebate (CVRP) for Leaf and Ariya. Low-income buyers get $4,500.
• Colorado: $5,000 state tax credit (refundable!) plus $1,500 for home charger.
• New York: $2,000 Drive Clean Rebate.
• Massachusetts: $3,500 MOR-EV rebate.

Some cities and utilities offer extra perks. For instance, Austin Energy in Texas gives $1,200 for EV purchases. Combine federal and state incentives, and you could save $10,000+ on a new Nissan EV. Always check DriveClean.gov or your state’s energy website for updates.

HOV Lane Access and Other Perks

Many states (like California, Washington, and Virginia) grant EVs HOV lane access even with one person in the car. That alone can save hours in traffic. Some cities also offer free public charging, parking discounts, or toll reductions. In Seattle, EV drivers pay half-price for city parking. These “soft” benefits add up over time.

Charging Costs and Electricity vs. Gas: A Real Savings Breakdown

One of the biggest advantages of going electric? Fuel savings. Let’s compare the real-world cost of driving a Nissan Leaf vs. a gas-powered car.

Electricity Costs: How Much Does It Really Cost to Charge?

The average U.S. electricity rate is 15.42 cents per kWh (EIA, 2024). Here’s how much it costs to fully charge each Nissan EV:

• Leaf S (40 kWh): 40 kWh × $0.1542 = $6.17
• Leaf SV Plus (62 kWh): 62 kWh × $0.1542 = $9.56
• Ariya (87 kWh): 87 kWh × $0.1542 = $13.41

Now, let’s calculate the cost per mile:

• Leaf S: $6.17 ÷ 150 miles = 4.1 cents/mile
• Leaf SV Plus: $9.56 ÷ 212 miles = 4.5 cents/mile
• Ariya (FWD): $13.41 ÷ 304 miles = 4.4 cents/mile

Compare that to a gas car averaging 30 MPG and $3.50/gallon: 11.7 cents/mile. Over 15,000 miles per year, you’d save:

• Leaf S: ($0.117 – $0.041) × 15,000 = $1,140/year
• Ariya: ($0.117 – $0.044) × 15,000 = $1,095/year

That’s over $1,000 in annual savings—enough to cover insurance, maintenance, and even a vacation fund.

Public Charging: When and Where to Use It

Home charging is the cheapest option, but public chargers are essential for road trips. Nissan EVs use the CHAdeMO standard for DC fast charging (Leaf) and CCS1 (Ariya). Most fast chargers cost $0.30–$0.50 per kWh. For example, a 30-minute charge on a 150 kW charger might cost $12–$20 and add 100–150 miles.

Tip: Use apps like PlugShare or ChargeHub to find free or discounted chargers. Some workplaces, shopping malls, and hotels offer free Level 2 charging—great for topping up during errands.

Is a Nissan Electric Car Worth the Price in 2024?

After crunching the numbers, testing the cars, and talking to owners, here’s my take: yes, Nissan electric cars are worth the price—if they fit your lifestyle.

Who Should Buy a Nissan Leaf?

The Leaf is perfect for:

• City drivers with short commutes (under 100 miles/day)
• First-time EV owners who want a low-cost entry point
• Families on a budget who need a second car for errands

The Leaf’s biggest drawback? Limited fast-charging speed (50 kW max). It’s not ideal for road trips over 200 miles. But for daily driving, it’s efficient, reliable, and surprisingly fun.

Who Should Buy a Nissan Ariya?

The Ariya is better for:

• Suburban or rural drivers who need more range and space
• Tech lovers who want advanced features (ProPILOT Assist, dual screens)
• Snowy climates (AWD models offer great traction)

The Ariya’s price is higher, but the $7,500 federal credit brings the effective cost down. At $40K–$50K after incentives, it competes with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ford Mach-E—but with Nissan’s reputation for reliability.

Long-Term Value and Reliability

Nissan EVs have a solid track record. The Leaf’s battery degradation is well-documented but manageable. Most Leafs retain 70–80% of their capacity after 100,000 miles. Nissan also offers an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty—standard for the industry. The Ariya’s new platform is too new for long-term data, but early reviews praise its build quality and driving dynamics.

Final tip: Consider leasing. Nissan often offers attractive lease deals on the Ariya (e.g., $399/month with $3,999 down). Leasing lets you upgrade every 2–3 years and avoid long-term depreciation risk.

Data Table: 2024 Nissan EV Pricing and Key Specs

Model	Trim	MSRP	Range (mi)	Fast Charging	Federal Tax Credit	Effective Price (After Credit)
Nissan Leaf	S (40 kWh)	$28,140	150	50 kW	Yes ($7,500)	$20,640
Nissan Leaf	SV Plus (62 kWh)	$36,190	212	50 kW	Yes ($7,500)	$28,690
Nissan Ariya	Engage (FWD)	$39,590	216	130 kW	Yes ($7,500)	$32,090
Nissan Ariya	Venture+ (FWD)	$47,190	304	130 kW	Yes ($7,500)	$39,690
Nissan Ariya	Platinum+ (AWD)	$58,190	272	130 kW	No (as of 2024)	$58,190

Final Thoughts: Making the Smart Choice in 2024

So, what is the price of a Nissan electric car in 2024? The answer isn’t just a number—it’s a complete picture of value. The Leaf starts at $28K, the Ariya at $39K, but after federal and state incentives, your out-of-pocket cost could be $20K–$40K, depending on your location and tax situation. Add in $1,000+ in annual fuel savings, lower maintenance, and perks like HOV lane access, and the long-term math is compelling.

Is the Leaf perfect? No. Its charging speed and range lag behind newer rivals. But for the right buyer, it’s still one of the most practical, affordable EVs on the market. The Ariya, meanwhile, proves Nissan can compete in the premium EV space—offering style, range, and tech at a competitive price.

If you’re on the fence, here’s my advice: Take a test drive. Visit a dealership, try the e-Pedal, explore the infotainment, and feel the difference in ride quality. Talk to real owners (Facebook groups and Reddit are goldmines for honest feedback). And don’t forget to check for incentives—your state might be offering a deal that changes the game.

In 2024, going electric isn’t just about saving the planet. It’s about saving money, reducing stress, and driving a car that’s smarter, quieter, and more fun. With Nissan, you don’t need to spend $60K to get there. Sometimes, the best things come in affordable packages.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting price of a Nissan electric car in 2024?

The 2024 Nissan LEAF starts at $28,140, making it one of the most affordable electric vehicles (EVs) on the market. Higher trims like the LEAF SV Plus offer more range and features, with prices reaching around $36,190.

How much does the Nissan ARIYA cost compared to the LEAF?

The Nissan ARIYA, Nissan’s all-electric crossover, starts at $43,190, significantly higher than the LEAF due to its longer range, advanced tech, and SUV design. The ARIYA offers up to 304 miles of range, depending on the configuration.

Are there any tax credits or incentives to lower the price of a Nissan electric car?

Yes, depending on your location, you may qualify for federal or state EV tax credits, which can reduce the price of a Nissan electric car by up to $7,500. Check current IRS guidelines and local incentives for eligibility.

What factors affect the final price of a Nissan EV?

The price of a Nissan electric car varies based on trim level, battery size, optional features (like ProPILOT Assist), and dealership fees. Additional costs like destination charges and state taxes also impact the final price.

Is the Nissan LEAF still a budget-friendly EV in 2024?

Absolutely. The 2024 Nissan LEAF remains one of the most budget-friendly EVs, with a competitive price point and low maintenance costs. Its 149-mile base range suits daily commuters, while the Plus model offers up to 212 miles.

Where can I find the best deals on a Nissan electric car?

To get the best price on a Nissan electric car, compare local dealer incentives, manufacturer rebates, and special financing offers. Online car-buying platforms and year-end sales events often provide additional discounts.