Nissan Leaf

The 2019 Leaf Plus, with a 62-kWh battery, has a rated range of 215 miles. It takes eight hours to charge it on a 240-volt connector. The E-Pedal feature decelerates the Leaf quite significantly when the driver eases off the accelerator, sending energy to go back to the battery. The Leaf accelerates decisively but the ride is stiff. Its handling is mundane but secure. The driving position can be uncomfortable for some drivers because the steering wheel doesn't telescope for reach. The optional ProPilot Assist can help keep the car in its lane and adjust its speed to keep track with surrounding traffic. Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking is standard. Updates for 2020 include standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind spot warning, and automatic high beams. Also, all models have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Since our test, charge times have been shortened through updates to the car. At low speeds the extraordinarily quiet LEAF feels quick and rides comfortably. Cabin access is easy and the rear seat is fairly roomy. We measured 3.16 miles per kWh, the equivalent of 106 mpg. Running costs are extremely low: 3.5 cents per mile at the national average of 11 cents per kWh. Standard features include a heated steering wheel and seats. Model year 2013 brought a faster onboard charger and a cheaper S version. However, 2013 and later LEAF models scored Poor in the IIHS small-overlap crash test.