The Nissan LEAF is one of the more affordable electric vehicles (EVs) on the market today. Nissan sold thousands of them in 2021, and they have sold thousands more in 2022. Here’s the latest on the newest LEAF EV model for the 2023 model year:

How soon can I get a 2023 Nissan LEAF?

Nissan states the 2023 Nissan LEAF is available nationwide. The LEAF EV debuted in 2010 and is in its second generation, which debuted for the 2018 model year. 

Nissan states the MSRP for the LEAF EV starts at $27,800. That’s for the LEAF S trim that has a 40 kWh battery. The LEAF SV Plus trim has a bigger range thanks to the 60 kWh battery and has a slightly higher MSRP of $35,800.

What’s new with the 2023 Nissan LEAF?

First off, there are only two trim levels available. Kelley Blue Book (KBB) states the S and the SV PLUS are the two most popular trims. In the 2022 model, there were five: the S, SV Plus, S Plus, SV, and SL Plus.

Though technically this does continue with the second generation of LEAF EVs, the 2023 Nissan LEAF does get a facelift. Nissan states the 2023 LEAF has a new grille shape, front bumper, and headlights. There’s also a new option for rims with 17-inch multi-spoke wheels available for the SV Plus trim. 

Inside the cabin, there’s new black cloth upholstery for both trims. The LEAF S gets a gray finish, and the LEAF SV PLUS gets a gloss finish. There’s also more Nissan branding inside and out.

2023 Nissan LEAF specs and features 

The 2023 Nissan LEAF S has a 147 kW electric motor and a 40 kWh lithium-ion battery. Nissan says this system generates 147 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. The LEAF S has a range of up to 149 miles on a full charge.

The 2023 Nissan LEAF SV Plus is more powerful with a 160 kW motor and 60 kWh battery. This unit puts out 214 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque with a range of up to 212 miles. Both powertrains have three driving modes: normal, Eco-mode (increases regenerative braking and reduces HVAC power use), and B-mode (engages regenerative braking more aggressively). 

The LEAF S gives you plenty of features for a base trim. Cruise control, high beam assist, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment screen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a four-speaker sounds system, and a rear view monitor. 

Safety systems like forward collision warning, rear automatic braking, blind-spot warning and intervention, and rear cross-traffic alert are also standard for the LEAF EV. If you fold down the rear seats, the cargo volume reaches 30 cubic feet. Each battery pack comes with a warranty for eight years or 100,000 miles for defects and the same length and duration for excessive capacity loss.

Bumping up to the SV Plus trim does include more perks. The parking brake is electric instead of a foot pedal and uses intelligent cruise control. The SV Plus also has the NissanConnect system. NissanConnect includes navigation with 3D imagery, SiriusXM Radio, Travel, and Traffic, and remote telematics showing battery charge information. The Nissan ProPILOT Assist system is also included and gives the LEAF EV models driver-assist features for conditions like highway traffic and tight spaces.

Is the 2023 Nissan LEAF worth it?

The LEAF EV is part of a packed EV segment. Competitors include the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Kia Niro EV.

The 2023 Nissan LEAF S is an affordable option for EV buyers. The LEAF EV is still eligible for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit with a low price tag, to begin with. But KBB states that it is only for the first 200,000 models sold, and Nissan could reach that mark this summer.

All of the competitors have a better range on a full charge: Chevrolet reports the Bolt is rated for 259 miles, Hyundai says the Kona Electric can go 258 miles, and Kia states the Niro EV can make it 239 miles.

If you’re looking for an affordable EV for shorter trips to work, school, errands, etc., the LEAF EV is a great option. But for activities that require better range, you may find better options than the 2023 Nissan LEAF on the market.