Let’s face it, the Nissan Leaf has been quietly chugging away in the background for well over a decade, making electric driving accessible long before it was cool. For 2025, the Leaf is still very much the sensible choice for everyday folks looking for a no-fuss EV—except now it packs a punchier look and some much-needed tech to hold its own in the ever-crowded electric hatchback scene.

A Fresh Take on Familiar DNA

Is it still, well, a Leaf? Yes, and that’s a good thing. The 2025 model stays true to the Leaf’s practical vibe—a roomy five-seater with classic hatchback utility (23.6cu.ft. cargo space, seats up) and a body that still fits city parking spots without breaking a sweat. The exterior update is subtle but sharp, with a more premium feel and cleaner lines. And for eco diehards, more than 60% of the interior materials are recycled, including the funky fabric seats and trim.

Powertrains: Now with Something for Everyone

Here’s where things get fun (well, by Leaf standards):

• Base Leaf S
• 40kWh battery, 147hp, 236lb-ft torque
• EPA estimated range: 149 miles
• Leaf SV Plus
• 62kWh battery, 214hp, 250lb-ft torque
• EPA estimated range: 212 miles

Why pick the SV Plus? You’ll want that extra real-world range for not obsessing over every charging stop, plus a bit more pep off the line. Either way, expect zippy handling in the city and instant torque at every green light. 0–60mph in the SV Plus clocks around a decent 6.8 seconds—not Tesla-fast, but snappy enough for grocery runs.

Living With the Leaf: Chill, Easy, and Surprisingly Fun

Charging & Efficiency

• Regular home charge: about 6 hours on a 240V setup for the base battery—no fancy garage needed.
• DC fast charging: slower than some EV rivals, maxing out at 50kW. But for most daily use, you’ll top off overnight or during errands.

MPGe numbers are solid, with a combined 104MPGe and up to 98MPGe highway. Even after all these years, the Leaf is one of the least expensive EVs to run—expect major savings over gas, especially if your commute is mostly local.

Inside: Comfort, Tech, and No-Nonsense Luxury

• 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and clear menus—perfect for swapping playlists while avoiding traffic.
• All the usuals: automatic climate, keyless entry, push-button start, and even heated seats on the top trim.
• Bonus: Nissan’s e-Pedal lets you drive with one pedal, blending regenerative braking for a smooth and relaxing ride.

The SV Plus gives you a bit more: surround-view cameras, navigation, upgraded audio, and a power driver’s seat. Cabin noise is low, the ride is composed, and you won’t miss those gas-engine vibrations.

Safety for All

Every 2025 Leaf comes with the full Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite: emergency braking, blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keep assist, and more. Toss in ProPILOT Assist—the semi-autonomous lane centering/traffic jam helper—and the Leaf’s as chill as any suburban runabout gets.

Who Should Buy the 2025 Leaf?

Let’s be honest—if you want something that’ll flatten a drag strip, go shop elsewhere. The Leaf is for the pragmatic daily driver, the commuter who values not just range but peace of mind. It excels at what it was born to do: make EV ownership easy, affordable, and stress-free.

• Starting price: $28,140 for S, $36,190 for SV Plus.
• You get comfort, all the essential tech, and genuine hatchback practicality.
• You lose: blistering fast-charging and Tesla-sized range numbers.

But for most, that’s more than enough. The Leaf still delivers the “get in and go” experience with barely-there running costs. If you’re looking to jump into the EV pool without breaking the bank—or just want a clean, competent, and reliable second car—the Leaf won’t let you down.

TL;DR – Why the 2025 Nissan Leaf Still Rocks

• Affordable, no-nonsense EV for the masses
• Flexible range options (149–212 miles)
• Chill to drive, roomy inside, and quietly stylish
• Safety and tech that keeps daily life easy
• Still one of the best values in electric cars today

Will it set your hair on fire? Nope. But if you want to skip the drama and live your best (electric) life, this hatchback legend’s still got it.