The Nissan Leaf 2018: A Second Generation Electric Revolution

The Nissan Leaf, a pioneer in the electric vehicle (EV) market, entered its second generation in 2018 with a bold promise: to make electric driving accessible and desirable for the masses. Building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, the 2018 Leaf aimed to address the concerns of range anxiety, improve performance, and offer a more sophisticated driving experience.

This comprehensive review delves into the intricacies of the 2018 Nissan Leaf, examining its strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately determining if it lives up to its ambitious goals.

A Bold Design Language:

The 2018 Leaf sheds the somewhat bland aesthetics of its predecessor, adopting a more modern and aerodynamic design language. The distinctive "V-Motion" grille, now a signature element of Nissan’s design philosophy, takes center stage, flanked by sharp, angular headlights that add an air of aggression. The sculpted lines along the sides and the sloping roofline contribute to a sporty and futuristic look.

While the overall design is a significant improvement, some might find the rear end to be a bit generic and lacking in character. Nonetheless, the 2018 Leaf stands out from the crowd, making a clear statement about its electric identity.

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1 The Nissan Leaf 2018: A Second Generation Electric Revolution

Interior Comfort and Functionality:

Stepping inside the 2018 Leaf, you are greeted by a surprisingly spacious and comfortable cabin. The dashboard features a clean and modern layout with a focus on driver-centric functionality. The driver’s seat offers good support and ample adjustability, while the rear seats are spacious enough for adults, although headroom might be a bit tight for taller passengers.

The 2018 Leaf boasts a high-quality interior with soft-touch materials and a comfortable overall feel. The steering wheel is ergonomically designed, and the controls are intuitive and easy to use. The instrument cluster, which features a 7-inch color display, provides all the necessary information in a clear and concise manner.

Technology and Connectivity:

The 2018 Leaf embraces the latest technological advancements, offering a suite of driver-assist features and an intuitive infotainment system. The centerpiece of the cabin is the 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is responsive and easy to navigate. It offers standard features like Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, allowing for seamless integration with smartphones.

The Nissan Leaf 2018: A Second Generation Electric Revolution

The 2018 Leaf also features Nissan’s advanced driver-assist system, known as ProPILOT. This system uses a combination of cameras and sensors to assist the driver with tasks such as lane keeping, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. While not fully autonomous, ProPILOT offers a significant level of driver assistance and can make long drives less stressful.

Electric Powertrain and Performance:

The 2018 Leaf’s electric powertrain delivers a surprisingly peppy performance. The 110 kW (147 hp) electric motor provides ample acceleration, making the Leaf feel more agile than its size might suggest. The instant torque delivery is a hallmark of electric vehicles, allowing for swift and responsive acceleration.

The 2018 Leaf comes with a 40 kWh battery pack, offering an estimated range of 151 miles on a single charge. This range is sufficient for daily commuting and most short trips, but it might not be enough for longer road trips. However, the Leaf’s quick charging capabilities allow for a relatively fast recharge, making it suitable for longer journeys with strategic charging stops.

Driving Experience:

The Nissan Leaf 2018: A Second Generation Electric Revolution

Driving the 2018 Leaf is a unique and enjoyable experience. The electric powertrain’s instant torque delivery offers a smooth and quiet ride, devoid of any engine noise. The steering is precise and responsive, making the Leaf feel nimble and easy to maneuver.

The ride quality is comfortable, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. The Leaf’s regenerative braking system, which captures energy during deceleration and braking, adds to the overall efficiency and enhances the driving experience.

Efficiency and Charging:

The 2018 Leaf boasts impressive efficiency, achieving an EPA-estimated rating of 132 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent). This means that the Leaf can travel the equivalent distance on one kilowatt-hour of electricity as a gasoline car can on one gallon of fuel.

The 2018 Leaf supports both Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging. Level 1 charging is the slowest option, taking around 20 hours to fully charge the battery. Level 2 charging, which is typically found at home or at public charging stations, can charge the battery in about 4-8 hours. The Leaf also supports DC fast charging, which can add up to 80% of the battery capacity in about 40 minutes.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

Modern and stylish design: The 2018 Leaf boasts a bold and futuristic design that stands out from the crowd.
Spacious and comfortable interior: The cabin offers ample space and comfortable seating for both front and rear passengers.
Advanced technology and driver-assist features: The Leaf is equipped with a suite of driver-assist features, including ProPILOT, making it a safe and convenient vehicle to drive.
Peppy performance and instant torque: The electric motor provides ample acceleration, making the Leaf feel agile and responsive.
Efficient and quiet ride: The electric powertrain delivers a smooth and quiet ride, offering a unique driving experience.

Quick charging capabilities: The Leaf supports DC fast charging, allowing for relatively fast recharges.

Cons:

Limited range: The 40 kWh battery pack offers a range of 151 miles, which might not be enough for longer road trips.
Rear headroom could be better: Taller passengers might find the rear headroom to be a bit tight.
Infotainment system could be more intuitive: While the infotainment system is functional, it could be more intuitive and user-friendly.
Price: The 2018 Leaf’s starting price was higher than some of its competitors, making it less accessible to budget-conscious buyers.

Conclusion:

The 2018 Nissan Leaf is a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering a more stylish design, a comfortable interior, advanced technology, and a peppy performance. Its efficiency and quick charging capabilities make it a viable option for daily commuting and even some longer trips.

However, the Leaf’s limited range and higher price point might be a deterrent for some buyers. Despite these shortcomings, the 2018 Leaf remains a compelling option for those seeking a stylish, efficient, and technologically advanced electric vehicle. Its contribution to the growing EV market is undeniable, and it continues to pave the way for a more sustainable future of mobility.

Beyond the Review:

The 2018 Leaf’s success sparked a wave of innovation in the EV market, with manufacturers racing to produce more affordable and feature-rich electric vehicles. This competition has resulted in significant advancements in battery technology, driving range, and charging infrastructure.

The 2018 Leaf’s legacy lives on in the form of its successor, the 2023 Nissan Leaf, which boasts an even larger battery pack, an improved driving range, and an even more sophisticated suite of driver-assist features.

The journey of the Nissan Leaf, from its humble beginnings to its second generation, exemplifies the transformative power of electric vehicles. As technology continues to evolve, the future of electric driving looks bright, with the Nissan Leaf playing a key role in shaping this exciting new era of mobility.

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The Nissan Leaf 2018: A Second Generation Electric Revolution