For years, the Leaf was the best-selling electric car on the market. However, things have changed and the competition is much tougher than it was five years ago, even in the segment of affordable EV models. Still, that doesn’t mean Leaf has no good things to offer. It is still one of the most affordable EVs around, which comes equipped with decent power and range, as well as with a long list of safety features. Furthermore, we like its simplicity in every aspect, though there are few things to complain about. In any case, we don’t expect to see 2022 Nissan Leaf with some more important modifications.
Simply, the Japanese manufacturer is currently busy with other electric vehicles, particularly with the upcoming Ariya crossover, which is expected to become the company’s best-seller among electric cars. Therefore, the next year shouldn’t bring more important updates, even though some sources were suggesting a facelift, which makes sense considering that the current generation has been around since 2017.
2022 Nissan Leaf Redesign
In terms of base design characteristics, not many things have changed since the last redesign in 2017. Of course, there were some additions in terms of new features and a bigger battery. Still, the overall design remained the same. When you look from the outside, you can see a typical hatchback design, which promises a lot of practicality and functionality. Also, the front end doesn’t look significantly different from the brand’s models that use internal-combustion engines, which is certainly a good thing.
For the next year, we expect to see no bigger changes. Of course, there is always room for new color options and similar things. However, the overall layout will certainly remain the same. To remind you, this model features around 106.3 inches in wheelbase and 176.8 inches in total length.
Interior
Changes on the inside won’t come either. You may count on the same cabin layout, which is generally good. The overall quality is a mixed bag. While there are some areas that feature quality materials, you can also notice a lot of cheap plastic around. Materials are definitely nicer in higher trim levels.
The classic hatchback layout means a lot of practicality on the inside. First of all, both rows of seats are quite spacious and accommodate adults with ease. The front seats are also quite comfortable, though they would definitely use more side support. The driving position is good, while we also like that visibility is good in all directions.
When it comes to the cargo area, you may count on pretty decent numbers. This hatchback offers around 23.6 cubic feet of cargo room behind the Leaf’s rear seats and 30 cubic feet of the total volume. Unfortunately, the rear seats don’t fold flat.
Features
Of course, this aspect can always bring some novelties, but we don’t expect that the 2022 Nissan Leaf will come up with too many of them. Simply, the current model is already equipped pretty well and there is no need for bigger improvements. In terms of tech goodies, the current model already comes standard with things like an 8-inch touch screen, voice recognition, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, Bluetooth, three USB ports, and a four-speaker stereo. Additionally, you can get goodies like navigation, a six-speaker stereo, and a seven-speaker Bose premium audio system.
When it comes to safety, base models already come with a full load of goodies. The list includes goodies like a rearview camera, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, rear parking sensors, automatic high-beam headlights, and rear door alert. That’s pretty impressive, considering the model’s price tag.
2022 Nissan Leaf Drivetrain, Performance, Range
This aspect shouldn’t change either. So, base 2022 Nissan Leaf models will continue with a single electric motor setup, which is good for nearly 150 horsepower and which comes in pair with a 40-kWh battery pack. The overall dynamics are pretty good, while the range of 150 miles on a single charge isn’t particularly impressive, given the numbers that competitors offer.
Still, you can always upgrade this hatchback and get more power and range. There is a version with 214 horsepower and a 60-kWh battery pack. With this model, you may count on notably better driving dynamics, as well as on a quite respectable range that goes up to around 220 miles.
2022 Nissan Leaf Release Date and Price
Since there are no bigger changes to come for the next year, we expect that the 2022 Nissan Leaf will hit the market sometime in the last quarter of 2021. Price changes aren’t expected either, so base models should go around 32.500 dollars. Some of the key competitors are models like Chevrolet Bolt, Kia Niro EV, Hyundai Ioniq EV etc.
