We aren’t saying goodbye to the Nissan Leaf. We’re saying see you later. The Leaf is currently a compact car, but it will be turning into a crossover for its third generation. Check out why the Nissan Leaf has limited time left as a tiny electric car. 

The Nissan Leaf could be discontinued for a bit 

The Nissan Leaf is about to undergo a significant transformation. According to sources, the Leaf will switch from a hatchback to a crossover body style. It will be based on the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance’s CMF-EV platform in 2025. 

As a result, Nissan will have five electric crossovers, including the Juke, Qashqai, Ariya, X-Trail, and the new Leaf. Smaller, more conventional models for Europe will be developed with Mistubishi and Renault. 

Guillaume Cartier, Vice President of Nissan Europe, confirmed that they are planning to build the Leaf’s replacement as a new crossover in Sunderland as part of a massive one billion investment at the plant. 

Is the 2022 Leaf worth buying? 

Yes, the 2022 Nissan Leaf is an excellent EV to consider as a comfortable, sporty, and spacious option. You can get started in a new Leaf for about $27,400. It serves as the cheapest electric vehicle that you can buy. 

For 2022, the Leaf gained standard CHADdeMO quick charging ports across each trim. Also, the ProPilot Assist semi-autonomous driving mode is now included on the SV Plus trim. But the big news is the price drop. 

Each Leaf model is now between $4,245 to $6,545 cheaper than they were last year. Plus, you still may qualify for state and federal tax rebates. 

The standard Leaf comes with a 147-hp electric motor and a 40.0-kWh battery pack. The Nissan Leaf Plus ups the fun with a 214-hp electric motor and a 62.0-kWh battery. With the standard setup, you can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds. 

It’s just slightly slower than the Hyundai Kona. But the brakes are smooth, the torque is instant, and the Leaf feels well balanced with limited body roll. Engaging in e-Pedal mode adds a little more control. 

You can charge the Leaf with a 120-volt or 240-volt outlet. The larger battery can be fully recharged in seven hours. The standard model has 149 miles of range, and the Plus has 226 miles of range. 

Does the 2022 Leaf have good features? 

The 2022 Nissan Leaf provides a relatively quiet interior. Wind and road noise becomes noticeable at higher speeds. The seats are well-padded and supportive. There’s plenty of headroom and legroom, but taller drivers may struggle to find the perfect position. 

Each Leaf comes with an 8.0-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The graphics could look better, but the system is quick and responsive. A seven-speaker Bose system is available on higher trim levels. 

Standard safety features include automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. You can opt for adaptive cruise control with the semi-autonomous driving mode. 

The Leaf is currently limited on cargo space, but things may change by 2025. As a crossover, the Leaf could offer more space and more power. But unfortunately, we will have to wait to learn more.