Nissan Leaf 30kWh, car review: Anything that tackles the modern condition of range anxiety is to be welcomed
Manufacturer says upgraded all-electric car now boasts 155 miles between charges
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Your support makes all the difference.The world’s biggest-selling electric car is working to address the main issue with any EV: short range. By adding a bigger, 30kWh battery option to the Leaf line-up, Nissan claims its newcomer can do 155 miles between charges, up from the existing 24kWh model’s 124.
As with ‘official’, laboratory-created fuel-economy figures vs real-world driving, this translates into something rather less spectacular on the road – the Leaf 24kWh realistically manages around 70-80 miles, so this model will probably do 100-120. However, anything that reduces that unpleasant modern condition of range anxiety is to be welcomed. So, how does the new hatchback perform – and does the extra size and weight of that bigger battery pack detract from the driving experience?
The good news is that the larger power source demands very few compromises to offset its benefits. The Leaf 30kWh weighs only 21kg more than the 24kWh car, and performs just as well, sprinting from 0-62mph in 11.5 seconds and on to nearly 90mph. Exhibiting typically strong and smooth EV acceleration, it actually feels swifter from behind the wheel all the way up to around 50mph, at which point throttle response evens out. This makes it a perfect around-town cruiser. The heavier battery can be felt in the handling, but only marginally, and stability control keeps everything in check.
The silent running can take some getting used to, from the comfortable cabin as well as from a pedestrian’s viewpoint. At speed, simply sing loudly or turn up the stereo to counter the noise from the wind, tyres and suspension. Talking of the interior, there’s ample space – and even the boot area is decent and not encroached upon by the bigger battery pack.
All Leaf 30kWh models offer the Nissanconnect EV infotainment system, giving details of the UK’s charging network as well as a touchscreen and satnav. Prices start at £24,490 over the entry-level 24kWh’s £20,790 (both incorporating the government’s £5000 EV grant). Those extra pounds will buy you peace of mind and more everyday usability – which, added to the benefits of claimed 2p-per-mile motoring, could be just enough to tempt you into all-electric car ownership.
Nissan Leaf 30kWh Acenta 5dr
Engine: AC electric motor
Price: from £24,490
Power: 108bhp
Torque: 187lb ft
0-62mph: 11.5 seconds
Top speed: 89mph
Fuel economy: 0.0mpg
CO2: 0g/km
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