Should you buy a Nissan Leaf?

Not so long ago, this would have been a definite yes. But even at the time of the 2022 update, the Nissan Leaf was starting to feel a little long in the tooth. Now a much greater choice of rival electric cars to consider instead, and most of the Leaf’s direct competitors are a better all-round proposition than this.

Pricing remained competitive right to the very end. But the MG4 EV was even cheaper, has a longer driving range, faster charging, and a seven-year warranty – while other rivals, such as the Curpa Born give you a far more premium and modern experience than the Nissan could manage.

So while it’s far from being a bad car, the Nissan has become very much an out-classed one. The next-generation Nissan Leaf will need to really pull its socks up to get back on terms with the advances made by rivals – and it’s starting by shifting sectors to compete in the even more popular family electric SUV category.

What we like

The Leaf is relaxing to drive and nippy enough to more than keep up with other traffic. The driving range of both battery pack variants should easily cope with the average commute, and the e-Pedal driving system is clever and intuitive to use. You get plenty of kit for your money, too, and a generous amount of passenger and boot space.

What we don’t like

The button-heavy dashboard layout is a little complicated and the infotainment technology is now very dated. The driving position may prevent some taller drivers getting comfortable behind the wheel. But above all else, the 50kW charging limit and lack of compatibility with the latest chargers is a real pain.