The second version of the Nissan Leaf 2022, which debuted for the 2018 model year, is a U.S. electric vehicle market veteran. The update replaced the old model’s retro appearance with one more in step with the rest of Nissan’s current offerings. Moreover, the original Leaf’s range has been doubled, and its performance has been upgraded to a new Plus edition.
The four-door, five-seat hatchback comes in your choice of two engines and five different trim levels. The standard Leaf S and Leaf S.V. are powered by a 147-horsepower electric motor and have a maximum range of 149 miles from their 40 kWh battery pack. A more powerful 214-horsepower electric motor and 62.0-kWh battery pack provide up to 226 miles of range for the Leaf S, S.V., and S.L. Plus variants. Aside from those minor changes, the 2022 Leaf receives the CHAdeMO quick-charging connector as standard equipment and the Nissan ProPilot Assist semi-autonomous driving mode as an option on the top S.V. Plus level.
This year, Nissan has done the unthinkable by slashing costs. The introductory price of a 2022 Leaf S is $28,425, down $4,195 from the price of a 2021 model. The top-tier S.L. Plus trim begins at $38,425, a savings of $6,495 over 2021. The full Leaf lineup provides similar cost savings. The $1,025 destination fee is included, but any potential federal, state, or local tax breaks are not.
Although the Leaf was instrumental in establishing the E.V. market, it is now crowded with newcomers from virtually every automaker. The Leaf is the prominent low-price champion, at least in base trims, though the Bolt, Mini Cooper SE, and Hyundai Kona Electric throng the same price points. The interior is large and pleasant without being bare or cheap. The front seats are incredibly spacious, with plenty of room for a college football linebacker to stretch out comfortably. The Leaf boasts front legroom of 42.1 inches and headroom of 41.2 inches, while the Bolt provides 44.3 inches and 40.3 inches, the Mini 41.4 inches and 40.3 inches, Manufacturer specs place the width of the Toyota 41.5 inches and the width of the Hyundai Kona at 39.6 inches.
The Leaf finds a good mix between sportiness and practicality, making it a joy to drive daily, even if rivals like the Bolt and Mini provide more immediate driving sensations. The ride is comfortable until a particular size bump or defect in the road is encountered. At that point, the impact is transmitted to the interior with some dampening. Still, there is never a sense that the suspension is overworked, and there are no accompanying rattles. Tires on the higher-end models are 17 inches in diameter and have a low rolling resistance, so they sound harsh. The tires on the base models are 16 inches in diameter and have a slightly taller sidewall, so they say they are less powerful.
The Leaf may seem like an antiquated relic amid many new electric vehicles (E.V.s) boasting futuristic designs and greater estimated ranges, like Nissan’s own Ariya. However, it still provides an excellent balance of driving range, tried-and-true components, and high comfort levels at a highly reasonable price. Regardless of its powertrain, the Leaf is a trustworthy companion for first-time E.V. buyers and those with a regular commute.
performance: Nissan Leaf 2022
The 2022 Nissan Leaf is offered with two different engines. The standard Nissan Leaf S and S.V. electric motor generates 147 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque from a 40 kWh battery pack. The higher-end Leaf S, S.V., and S.L. Plus electric motor generates 214 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque from a 62.0 kWh battery pack. The Leaf is brought up to date by the Plus engine, yet the outgoing model is just 17 lb-ft less powerful.
While the Leaf Plus can accomplish the 0-to-60 mph sprint in under 7 seconds, that time doesn’t do justice to the massive amount of instantaneous power at its disposal. If you turn the wheel light and press the accelerator, the front tires will make a chirping sound. Although the Leaf’s modest nature makes it surprising to learn it is capable of mischief, it is typical of E.V.s.
Although there is a definite on-center valley that maintains the car on track over potholes, the steering is as lifeless as could be anticipated. Accurate turn-in and a solid, grounded sensation also benefit the battery pack’s placement. You won’t mistake it for a sports car, but its effective electric motor won’t make you feel cheated.
Power consumption, charging time, and overall range
Both powertrains in the 2022 Leaf combine to provide an average of 107 mpg. The EPA estimates a combined 111 mpg for the essential S and S.V., 123 mpg in the city, and 99 mpg on the highway for the Leaf Plus, which has a more powerful engine and a bigger battery pack. The Leaf is thus not the greatest of its kind but by very slim margins. The Kona and the Bolt get a combined 120 mpg, but the Mini only achieves 109 mpg. The figures become more apparent when the leaf’s age and cost are considered.
The Leaf’s Eco mode optimizes throttle reactions and software for optimal economy, allowing for more miles per kilowatt. A “one-pedal” option lets you get the most out of the car’s regenerative braking system, but careful planning and coasting give us the best results. How far does it stretch? The S and S.V. variants have a range of 114 miles, which is below average but still superior to the rated range of the Mazda MX-30. The range of the S.V. and S.L. Plus is a more acceptable 216 miles, while the S Plus has a range of 226 miles.
Safety and driver assistance
The Leaf has ten standard airbags to ensure the safety of its passengers, including a side-impact head and lower bags for rear occupants. The Nissan Safety Shield 360 package, which includes forward and reverses automated emergency braking, blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane keeping assist, is standard on the Leaf and Leaf Plus, and the S.V. model adds adaptive cruise control. The S.V. Plus comes with the advanced semi-autonomous driving mode ProPilot Assist.
The NHTSA has awarded the Leaf a perfect score of five stars for safety. The Leaf received good ratings across the board in IIHS testing, including the moderate overlap front, side, and head restraint/seat tests. The child seat anchors are situated so far back in the cushions that the IIHS rated them as “marginal,” indicating they may be challenging to reach.
Room and comfort in the Nissan Leaf
There is no problem with the Leaf’s front seats, which are synthetic in all models except the S.L., which has leather upholstery. They’re adaptable, somewhat supportive, and comfortable enough for those up to six feet tall. Forward visibility is good; measurements aside, the interior is roomy rather than cramped. Front legroom is 42.1 inches, compared to 44.3 inches for the Bolt, 41.4 inches for the Mini, and 41.5 inches for the Kona.
The rear seat legroom is 33.5 inches, and again, the competition is close. With 36.1 inches, the Bolt takes the top spot, followed by the Kona with 33.4 inches and the Mini with just 30.8 inches. Rear seat housings are not prioritized in this group; they are practical but perhaps best saved for minor children or short trips.
information: Nissan Leaf 2022
An 8.0-inch infotainment screen with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto is standard on all Leaf trims. Nissan Connect software provides functionality and control with a sensitive interface, although not the most advanced. Four USB ports are available, along with Sirius/X.M., standard four-speaker audio (six in the S.V. and a seven-speaker Bose system in the S.L.), and a digital instrument panel that gives the driver a variety of options for displaying information about the range, charging power regeneration, and other important metrics that make driving an electric car fun.
While the system is flawless, some visuals that show charging rates and battery status look a little outdated compared to those used on more recent models. We enjoy that the infotainment screen has extra physical strength, size, and adjustment knobs. When approaching a payment kiosk or cab, it is customary to grab the dashboard through simple steering wheel controls for similar operations.
Nissan Leaf storage and shipping
Behind the second row, the Leaf has 23.6 cubic feet of cargo space and, when folded, 30 cubic feet. The second row does not fold completely flat, creating a hump that can make it more challenging to push or move heavy items forward. The Bolt only offers 16.6 cubes behind the second row but expands to 57 cubes when folded, so in terms of raw space, it’s a mixed bag. It’s similar to the Kona, measuring 19.2 and 45.8 cu, respectively. The Mini Cooper ES plays a similar game with a small footprint of 8.7 cubic feet with the seat up and 34 cubic feet when folded down.
The semi-circular slot opening of the sheet makes it difficult to load very bulky or heavy square items. A durable beanbag that clips to the driver’s side in the cargo area allows for convenient storage and access to the included charging cord (220V and regular 110V with the included adapter).
design: Nissan Leaf 2022
While the 2022 Leaf may proudly display remnants of its history, the current version is an entirely different beast. Its “V-Motion” front grille adheres to Nissan’s existing design philosophy while maintaining a 0.28 drag coefficient, an important wind-cheat factor for any electric or fuel-efficient vehicle. Despite this, there is no need for human origami to enter or exit the building through the front door openings.
The Plus S.V. we examined had excellent quality control, fit and finish, and materials that hold up well considering the price. The design is functional and livable as a passenger or primary vehicle for a couple or a family of three. Aside from a few “zero emissions” badges, the Leaf could easily fit into the mix.
Is the 2022 Leaf worth it?
EExcept for individuals with a dedicated route or maybe as a second or third family vehicle, the standard Leaf S’s 149-mile range is too limited despite its appealing $28,375 base pricing ($29,825 for the S.V.). So, as an alternative, we suggest the $36,425 Leaf S.V. Plus. Except for heated rearview mirrors, leather seats, and the Bose audio system available in the S.L., it receives a bigger battery, a more powerful engine, a 215-mile range, and practically every upgrade on the books.
Nissan revealed that the 2023 portfolio would be limited to just two models, the essential S, and our preferred S.V. Plus, suggesting that most Leaf E.V. consumers share our opinions. Please consider that a vote of confidence.
How much does it cost to insure a Nissan Leaf 2022?
We are ensuring that the price of the Nissan Leaf in 2022 is only somewhat more than that of a conventional compact. The average yearly premium for a 30-year-old female driver with a clean record is around $2,010, although this average applies to all 50 states. In contrast, the Chevrolet Bolt costs $2,065, and the Mini Cooper SE costs $1,860.
conclusion
Early EV adopters have a particular place in their hearts for the Nissan Leaf. A significant upgrade in 2018 prolonged the life of the ground-breaking E.V. Although it is quiet, cozy, and simple to park, the CCS DC (Combined Charging System), which is much more widely used, is winning the war over its CHAdeMO connection for D.C. fast charging. Even Nissan’s forthcoming Ariya EV employs CCS DC. Its range estimations of 149 miles (basic S) and 226 miles (S Plus, 215 miles for S.V. and S.L. Plus) are inferior to its competitors. The Leaf is still a tried-and-true, simple-to-use E.V. if you have a short commute or access to charging at home or work. Furthermore, the Leaf’s reduced 2022 price plan helps compensate for flaws.
