Is the 2023 Nissan LEAF the Best Electric Car Under $30,000?
Electric cars are the wave of the future—and have significantly increased in popularity. However, a drawback of EVs is they tend to be more expensive than gas-powered ones. Also, since the electric powertrains in EVs are a relatively new technology, there is the risk of reliability issues. However, there’s a notable exception. With its low price, the reliable 2023 Nissan LEAF is a solid new electric car under $30,000.
Other electric cars under $30,000 don’t have the same history
The 2023 Nissan LEAF is no stranger to the EV world, it was introduced all the way back in 2010. With a starting price of $28,040, the LEAF is the only new EV under $30,000 with such a history.
There are a few other electric cars that cost under $30,000. This includes the 2023 Chevy Bolt EV ($26,500 MSRP), the 2023 Chevy Bolt EUV ($27,800 MSRP), and the 2023 MINI Cooper Electric ($29,900 MSRP). However, none of them have been around as long as the LEAF.
What critics like about the Nissan LEAF
One of the reasons for the Consumer Reports recommendation for the 2023 Nissan LEAF is its higher reliability compared to other electric cars. While the organization looks at multiple factors for its recommendations, it places a strong emphasis on reliability. An electric car can be strong in other areas, such as acceleration and technologies, but if it’s not reliable, CR typically won’t recommend it. An example of this is the Bolt, which was plagued by fire issues.
The LEAF was also recommended for the previous model year. And following the results of the most recent Auto Reliability Survey, the recommendation holds in 2023.
Meanwhile, Edmunds appreciated the updates that Nissan made to the LEAF and how it offers great range for the price. They point out how the hatchback design comes in handy when moving large items.
What’s new for the 2023 Nissan LEAF?
The 2023 Nissan LEAF has a refreshed exterior design, resulting in a sportier look. At the front end, there’s a new grille, bumper molding, and headlight design with a black inner finisher. Also, the SV PLUS trim has new 5-spoke 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.
Other changes include updated badges and new black front and rear fascia wind deflectors. Also, the tire deflectors have new shapes too. Additionally, inside the cabin, there is a new start-up video on the instrument panel screen.
Furthermore, Nissan discontinued the SV, S PLUS, and SL PLUS trims from the previous model year. Now, the 2023 LEAF only offers two trims: S and SV PLUS.
