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Nissan LEAF

Arguably the pioneer of accessible electric mobility with over 300,000 examples sold globally since the first-generation arrived a decade ago, it’s no surprise this ‘go to’ EV qualifies for a Clean Car Program incentive.

Oct 15, 2021

The restyled second-generation Nissan LEAF debuted in 2017, featuring thoroughly updated exterior looks and with a revitalised list of standard comfort and convenience specification inside.

One thing that didn’t change, however, was the fact the LEAF was designed to be a practical medium-sized family hatchback. Just one that emits zero emissions.

There are actually two types of LEAF: the $61,990 + ORC entry-level model, and the $69,990 + ORCs LEAF e+. Under the Government’s Clean Car Program incentive scheme, both iterations are eligible for an $8,625 rebate.

 

The two LEAFs look almost identical, but the big point of difference between the two lies in that powerful lithium-ion battery pack underneath the car. The entry-level version features a 40kwh battery, while the LEAF e+ boasts a 62kwh battery.

 

The headliner LEAF e+ has an indicative driving range of up to 385km on a full charge. When you consider the average single-trip commute for Kiwis is around 12km, that’s a whole lot of urban driving without having to worry about charging. Although plugging the car’s CHAdeMO fast-charger plug into a kiosk a public charging station will top the LEAF’s battery up to 80% in 60 minutes.

 

Inside the cabin everything is familiar, with the LEAF having adopted Nissan’s 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display, which includes apple Carplay and Android Auto capability. A clever ‘intelligent around-view monitor’ gives the driver a virtual ‘bird’s eye view’ of the vehicle’s immediate surroundings in real-time: handy for parking in tight city spaces.

 

Seats upholstered in black leather with suede inserts are standard trim, and those seats are heated front and rear. The back row also folds 60:40 like any other hatchback and, because the battery pack is tucked away underneath the car, there is still plenty of boot space to use – 435-litres in fact.

 

Also just like any other Nissan, the LEAF comes with a 5 year / 150,000km factory warranty, and the lithium-ion battery is also covered by an impressive 8 year / 160,000km warranty.