It’s pretty much legal to say that the Leaf is probably the only electric car with a real pedigree on the market. Two generations and almost a decade long production are obvious indicators that Nissan is doing things very well. This small hatchback is still among most popular EV models on the market, despite that the segment is getting pretty crowded these days. However, new rivals are getting better and better, and some of them offer significantly longer range. Therefore, the 2020 Nissan Leaf range is about to be extended, significantly. Only a year after the redesign, this hatch will come with a new version in the offer, with a new, bigger battery pack. This should be the only major novelty for the next year. The rest of the vehicle will remain pretty much the same. Therefore, don’t expect to see it much earlier than usual.
2020 Nissan Leaf Gets Long-Range Version
Without any doubt, the biggest novelty is a new long-range version. It comes with a bigger, 62-kWh battery pack, which ensures a significantly longer range than before, over 220 miles on a single charge. With such numbers, the 2020 Nissan Leaf will be able to compete with segment leaders like Chevy Bolt or Hyundai Kona EV. Also, it is important to mention that this version also comes with a more powerful electric motor, which counts all away up to 214 horsepower, which ensures notably better performances.
On the other side, base models will continue with a familiar 40-kWh battery pack and 147-hp electric motor, and a max range of around 150 miles.
Some reports even suggest that Nissan could offer another, extra-long range version, with even more impressive numbers. However, we are still waiting to hear something from the officials on this matter.
2020 Nissan Leaf Redesign
In terms of base design characteristics, the 2020 Nissan Leaf definitely won’t change. The current model is still fresh for bigger modifications, so we don’t count on any modification at the moment. This refers to both mechanics and aesthetics. Visuall, the new model is a big departure from the first-generation model. This hatchback now looks like any other Nissan model, with a typical hatchback body and design language that completely follows the brand’s latest design philosophy.
On the inside, there are some areas that feature some hard plastics and lower-rent materials, but that’s typical for electric cars, as that’s the best way to cut production costs. After all, the Leaf is one of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market.
Still, the overall impression of the interior quality is pretty good. The dashboard looks pretty attractive, with attractive shapes and lots of tech features. When it comes to seating capacity, this hatch counts to five. Front seats are spacious and very supportive, while the second row is comfortable as well. Still, the middle hump is pretty massive, so four adult passengers still feels like a perfect measure.
On the other side, a great thing about this hatchback is pretty generous cargo volume. You can count on about 23.5 cubic feet behind rear seats, which is more compared to most conventional compact cars on the market.
Trim Levels
The 2020 Nissan Leaf should continue in the same way when it comes to trim level organization. There are three versions in the offer – S, SV, and SL.
The base S model isn’t very generous in terms of standard equipment. It comes with things like 16-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, LED taillights. Things are pretty basic on the inside as well, as you get a 5-inch central display, Bluetooth, a USB port, and a four-speaker sound system. In terms of safety, forward collision warning with automatic braking is a nice standard feature.
A mid-range option is called the SV. This trim level seems like a much better choice, as it adds several essential standard features. For example, you get a fast-charging option, as well as alloy wheels and fog lights. Also, the list of tech goodies is pretty long. There is a 7-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation etc. A leather-wrapped steering wheel is also standard.
Finally, there is a top-range SL model, which adds a lot of things, including heated side mirrors, heated front seats, and steering wheel. Also, you can count on standard features like LED headlights and running lights, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, power-adjustable seats, etc. Other notable standard features are things like a 360-degree parking camera, leather upholstery, a Bose seven-speaker sound system etc.
2020 Nissan Leaf Release Date and Price
The 2020 Nissan Leaf release date should be scheduled for the end of the year. There are no bigger changes to come, so we don’t count on any earlier arrival. When it comes to the 2020 Nissan Leaf price, base models will go around 30.000 dollars. The long-range version will feature the starting price of around 36.500 dollars.
Competition
The competition is getting tougher and tougher these days. Still, Chevy Bolt remains the key rival. This small crossover also has a lot of great things to offer, starting from a pretty amazing range and good overall performance. However, the Leaf compensates a shorter range with better handling and notably higher interior quality. Also, the Bolt features a higher starting price.
Other rivals are all-electric versions of morels like Hyundai Kona and Kia Niro.
