The Nissan LEAF is truly economically-sound and all green. With its rechargeable lithium-ion battery, regenerative brake system, energy-efficient LED lights, recycled parts, 16′ steel wheels, eco-routing to save energy, and a quiet motor, the LEAF requires little maintenance. No more oil changes, no tune-ups and that sort. The LEAF, which now gets a range of about 123 miles, is simply a feel good ride or drive.
Exterior and Interior Features
For 2014, the LEAF experienced subtle changes in exterior shape, weight, and cargo space. It is highly aerodynamic in shape and has vertical tail lights, both helping to reduce wind noise. Moved from the cargo area to the inside cabin and freeing up cargo space is the LEAF’s life support a 6.6 kilowatt (kW) charger and the quick charge port delivering 50 kW of high voltage directly to the battery producing a 15 minutes boost from 30 to 80 percent capacity. Other interior upgrades include more leg room, seat adjustments, a remote switch to locate and open the charger, arrear cargo lift gate, key less entry, push button ignition, heated power mirrors, heated front and rear seats, leather steering wheel, outside temperature display, a rear camera and monitor for park assist, front and rear beverage holders, and fold down rear bench. In addition, a new heat pump helps to conserve the cabin heat and energy.
Technology Updates /Under the Hood
The Nissan LEAF has a 1-speed automatic transmission that produces 107 HP. It’s S, SV, and SL trims are all designed for efficiency. The new Nissan LEAF 6.6 kW charger now produces a full charge within 4 hours, which is in half the time as older models. Nissan LEAF is as loaded with technology including the iPod connectivity and USB port, Bluetooth and steering wheel mounted controls, Bose audio system and four small energy efficient speakers, and the new Car wings system to help you locate charging stations on the road and smart phone app so you start charging and warming your car remotely and within range.
Safety Features
The safety features for the Nissan LEAF include 4-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), side seat mounted airbags, curtain side overhead airbags, airbag occupancy sensor, automatic air conditioning, ABS traction control, and electronic stability. The Eco driving mode now has a new ‘B’ setting on the transmission built to increase regenerative braking during deceleration while a separate ‘Eco’ button on the steering wheel discourages harsh acceleration and extends the driving range.
