2025 Nissan Leaf Leads The EV Field In One Very Important Area

Nissan has announced pricing for the 2025 Leaf, the automaker’s long-standing electric hatchback. Now nearing the end of its lifecycle, the Leaf has been outclassed by more modern and capable alternatives, but it still leads the field in one crucial area: pricing. With a base MSRP of $28,140, the Leaf is the most affordable EV in the United States.

So, what do you get in return for your outlay? The entry-level Leaf, known as the S trim, receives a 40 kWh battery that provides an EPA-estimated range of 149 miles. That’s not particularly strong; the discontinued Chevrolet Bolt EV (which was even cheaper than the Leaf) had a range of 259 miles. Then again, the Leaf’s range is on par with the more expensive (and smaller) Fiat 500e.

The 149-Mile Range Isn’t Great, But It’s Ideal For Shorter Distances

If you have a shorter commute or plan to use the Leaf as an efficient runabout, the 149-mile range is manageable. However, those who drive longer distances may want to consider the SV Plus. Not only is this model better equipped, but it uses a larger 60 kWh battery that allows for 212 miles of driving between trips to the charging station. However, this trim is priced at $36,190, which is very close to newer EV rivals.

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Neither model is particularly powerful. The Leaf S has 147 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, while the SV Plus has 214 hp and 250 lb-ft. Both vehicles are well-equipped in other areas, though. Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 is part of the package and includes lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking (with pedestrian detection), and blind-spot assist. The SV trim adds ProPilot Assist and surround-view monitors.

Well-Equipped Despite Low Price Tag

The Leaf also receives an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SV Plus adds navigation, a heated steering wheel and front seats, LED headlights, 17-inch wheels, and several other luxuries. While nice to have, the Leaf is all about the value-for-money factor, so it’s best to stick to the entry-level model. It’s worth noting that the Leaf received a mid-life refresh a few years back.

Related

Next-Generation Nissan Leaf Could Enter Production As Soon As March 2025

The third-generation Leaf will be produced at the Sunderland plant in the UK.

While $28,140 is a reasonable asking price for a new electric vehicle, it’s still out of reach for most Americans. If mass adoption of EVs is to become a reality, we need significantly cheaper electric cars, closer to the $20,000 mark. While this already exists in Europe (the Dacia Spring is a good example), we’re yet to see it in the United States, although Jeep has hinted at introducing a $25,000 EV in the coming years. As for the Leaf, we wouldn’t be surprised if MY2025 is the final model year. The new model, expected to morph into a crossover in its third generation, may enter production as soon as March 2025, although this is yet to be confirmed by the automaker. All MY2025 Leaf prices mentioned above don’t include Nissan’s $1,140 destination charge.