Nissan LEAF
Arguably the pioneer of accessible electric mobility with over 300,000 examples sold globally since the first-generation arrived a decade ago, it’s no surprise this ‘go to’ EV qualifies for a Clean Car Program incentive.
The restyled second-generation Nissan LEAF debuted in 2017, featuring thoroughly updated exterior looks and with a revitalised list of standard comfort and convenience specification inside.
One thing that didn’t change, however, was the fact the LEAF was designed to be a practical medium-sized family hatchback. Just one that emits zero emissions.
There are actually two types of LEAF: the $61,990 + ORC entry-level model, and the $69,990 + ORCs LEAF e+. Under the Government’s Clean Car Program incentive scheme, both iterations are eligible for an $8,625 rebate.
Â
The two LEAFs look almost identical, but the big point of difference between the two lies in that powerful lithium-ion battery pack underneath the car. The entry-level version features a 40kwh battery, while the LEAF e+ boasts a 62kwh battery.
Â
The headliner LEAF e+ has an indicative driving range of up to 385km on a full charge. When you consider the average single-trip commute for Kiwis is around 12km, that’s a whole lot of urban driving without having to worry about charging. Although plugging the car’s CHAdeMO fast-charger plug into a kiosk a public charging station will top the LEAF’s battery up to 80% in 60 minutes.
Â
Inside the cabin everything is familiar, with the LEAF having adopted Nissan’s 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display, which includes apple Carplay and Android Auto capability. A clever ‘intelligent around-view monitor’ gives the driver a virtual ‘bird’s eye view’ of the vehicle’s immediate surroundings in real-time: handy for parking in tight city spaces.
Â
Seats upholstered in black leather with suede inserts are standard trim, and those seats are heated front and rear. The back row also folds 60:40 like any other hatchback and, because the battery pack is tucked away underneath the car, there is still plenty of boot space to use – 435-litres in fact.
Â
Also just like any other Nissan, the LEAF comes with a 5 year / 150,000km factory warranty, and the lithium-ion battery is also covered by an impressive 8 year / 160,000km warranty.