The 2023 Nissan LEAF offers a cheap electric vehicle (EV) to cater to customers who don’t want a Bolt EUV or a Hyundai Kona Electric. However, there is a terrific, stylish alternative to the LEAF. Enter the 2023 Mini Electric, an EV variant of the retro throwback Mini. So, should you opt for the sensible LEAF, or the stylish Mini?

How much is a 2023 Nissan LEAF?

The entry-level 2023 Nissan LEAF S trim starts at $28,895. However, if you want the longer range LEAF SV PLUS, you’ll have to spend a bit more. TrueCar says that the SV PLUS has a starting cost of $36,895. That makes the LEAF S one of the most affordable EVs on the market. 

Compared to the 2023 Mini Electric, the LEAF S is more of a bargain. The Mini Electric starts at $30,750, around $2,000 more than the LEAF S. Still, the vehicles are very different, even considering the similarities in starting price. For instance, the Mini offers just one body style in a three-door application; no convertible for the retro EV. 

What is the range on the 2023 Mini Electric?

Unfortunately for Mini fans, the 2023 Mini Electric suffers in a range comparison with the 2023 Nissan LEAF. The EV Mini offers an EPA-estimated electric driving range of just 114 miles. That’s not exactly road-trip numbers. However, if you’re looking for a better range to fit your budget, the Nissan LEAF delivers. 

A 2023 Nissan LEAF S has an electric driving range of 150 miles. Still, if you want a more extended range, you’ll have to opt for an SV PLUS. The SV PLUS returns an EPA range of 226 miles, making it an excellent choice for budget-minded EV shoppers who want nearly twice the range of the little Mini. 

Which car is more practical? 

The Nissan EV is unequivocally more practical than a 2023 Mini Electric. Beyond the range disparity, the Nissan offers comfortable seating for five, while the Mini EV has cramped rear seats. Next, the LEAF has a spacious 23.6 cubic feet of cargo space. That’s well over twice the volume of the Mini. 

Which EV is more fun?

Just as the 2023 Nissan LEAF is much more practical than the Mini Electric, the Mini wins the fun factor. With a three-door hatchback application, 181 horsepower, and enthusiastic, responsive handling, the Mini EV is joyful in a lineup of lackluster cheap EV appliances. Furthermore, Mini catered to its original customer base: shoppers who want effervescence over function. 

Should you buy a 2023 Nissan LEAF or a 2023 Mini Electric?

If you’re shopping for style, fun factor, or length of the basic warranty, you should buy the Mini Electric. However, if you want a practical EV with a much longer range than the Mini, opt for a 2023 Nissan LEAF. It comes down to what you want in your next EV. However, the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV offers substantial savings if you’re looking for an electric bargain. Scroll down to the following article to read more about cheap EVs and alternatives!