Only 1 Nissan Model Made the Green Choice List
Consumer Reports‘ Green Choice program showcases vehicles with the lowest emissions in the market, regardless of whether they are gas-powered, hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), or electric vehicles (EVs). Among Nissan’s lineup, only one model made it to the Green Choice list: the Nissan Leaf.
Driving toward a greener future
The Green Choice Program is an initiative by Consumer Reports that focuses on identifying the cleanest vehicles on the market. The program was founded in 1997 by the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) and Consumers Union, the nonprofit publisher of Consumer Reports, as a way to educate car buyers about the environmental impact of their vehicle choices. In 2001, the program became solely operated by Consumer Reports, and it has continued to recognize the greenest vehicles on the market every year since then.
To determine which vehicles make it onto the Green Choice list, Consumer Reports analyzes emissions data from various sources, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB). It takes into account not just the tailpipe emissions but also the manufacturing process and disposal of the vehicle. The program has significantly impacted the automotive industry, with many manufacturers using it as a benchmark for developing cleaner and more efficient vehicles. It has also helped to raise awareness among car buyers about the importance of choosing environmentally friendly vehicles and the impact their choices can have on the environment.
Consumer Reports placed the Nissan Leaf on its Green Choice list
The Nissan Leaf is an electric hatchback that made it onto the latest Consumer Reports’ Green Choice list, standing out as one of the greenest vehicles available on the market. With an EPA-estimated range of 149 miles, it’s perfect for daily commuting and running errands without having to worry about running out of charge. The Leaf’s 40 kWh battery pack is sufficient for everyday use, and with a starting price of $28,040, it’s an affordable option for anyone looking for an electric vehicle.
The Leaf’s electric motor produces 147 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, providing a smooth and quiet driving experience. The car comes with front-wheel drive, and the front independent suspension and stabilizer bars provide excellent stability and handling. Additionally, the Leaf comes with a suite of advanced safety features, including lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and a pre-collision safety system.
Inside, the Leaf EV offers a spacious cabin with a maximum cargo capacity of 30.0 cubic feet thanks to its hatchback build, making it perfect for hauling groceries, luggage, or outdoor gear. Additionally, the 8.0-inch infotainment display is easy to use and comes with four speakers as standard.
Other Consumer Reports’ top picks for 2023
The latest list of top picks from Consumer Reports reveals that the best cars to buy are reliable, satisfying but also eco-friendly and efficient. The BMW i4, for instance, is an electric sedan that boasts impressive performance, handling, and range. It’s also the first EV to receive the Green Choice designation from Consumer Reports, indicating its low emissions and high scores on the greenhouse gas and smog indexes.
The Hyundai Elantra Hybrid and Sonata Hybrid are two affordable and spacious sedans that provide excellent gas mileage, smooth ride quality, and advanced safety features. On the other hand, the Lexus ES300h is a luxury hybrid sedan that blends refinement, comfort, and efficiency seamlessly.
The Kia Niro Hybrid and Niro EV are two versatile and practical small SUVs that cater to various needs. The hybrid version boasts a remarkable fuel economy of 43 mpg overall, while the electric version has a respectable range of 239 miles on a single charge.
The Tesla Model 3 is a futuristic, fun-to-drive electric sedan with a devoted fan base. Its spacious and minimalist interior, responsive touchscreen, and exceptional range make it one of the most desirable electric cars on the market.
Finally, the Toyota Camry Hybrid, Corolla, Corolla Hatchback, Corolla Hybrid, and Volkswagen Jetta offer a range of practical options for car buyers looking for reliability, affordability, and fuel efficiency.
