Car Review Nissan Leaf 2023

Review

When I decided to switch to an electric vehicle, the 2023 Nissan Leaf felt like a natural choice—a compact hatchback with a fully electric powertrain, reasonably priced, and without a flashy persona. The options were the base S with a 40 kWh battery and 147 hp, or the slightly higher-end SV Plus with a 60 kWh battery and 214 hp. I went with the base model.

The first thing that struck me was how quiet and smooth the ride is. No engine noise, no vibrations—just pure driving. It’s especially pleasant in the morning or around town: the Leaf pulls away confidently from a stop, thanks to the electric motor’s instant torque. It’s perfect for city driving: comfortable seating, good visibility, and a cabin spacious enough for two adults and a child. I charge at home on a 240V outlet—plug it in at night, and it’s ready by morning.

The range, though, isn’t exactly cutting-edge by today’s standards: about 149 miles in the base version. Heavy use of the AC or driving in winter noticeably cuts into that. For out-of-town trips, you need to plan carefully. The SV Plus promises around 212 miles. Fast charging at stations is available but not the most impressive: reviews note that DC charging to ~80% can take significantly longer than with newer top-tier EVs.

Handling is decent—not a sports car, but comfortable for everyday driving. The suspension does its job without fanfare, though road noise becomes a bit more noticeable above ~62 mph compared to premium EVs. Maintenance and running costs are a pleasant surprise: fewer moving parts mean fewer headaches. For me, this was a practical step into the electric future without unnecessary hassle.

If you’re after an affordable, simple, and comfortable city EV, the 2023 Nissan Leaf is well worth considering. But if you want long highway trips without frequent charging or a more thrilling drive, you might want to look at higher-range versions or competitors.