The biggest news surrounding the 2022 Nissan Leaf is the substantial price drop compared to the 2021 model. Though it’s common for electronics prices to lower over time (think flat-screen TVs), Nissan’s pricing announcement makes a statement. The automaker has positioned the Leaf as the lowest-priced new EV. But is the 2022 Leaf this year’s best EV value, or is it just cheap?

Last year, Nissan advertised the base-model 2021 Leaf S for $31,670. Now priced at $27,400, the new model undercuts last year’s price by $4,270. Edmunds reports that the 2022 Leaf S provides the previous year’s optional portable charging cable, and the Leaf SV Plus now includes last year’s optional SV Technology package. 

At $33,425, the 2022 Leaf S Plus is Car and Driver’s choice for the best deal on an EV. Compared to other Nissan Leaf models, the S Plus offers “the longest driving range, the more powerful electric motor, and still offers a decent set of standard equipment,” Car and Driver reports. 

Standard Nissan Leaf features include an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control, keyless entry with push-button start, and automatic headlights. This new EV also comes with a full suite of driver-assist features, which earned the EV a 5-star safety rating from the NHTSA. 

Nissan offers two powertrain options for the fully electric front-wheel-drive Leaf. The standard, less powerful option features a 40.0-kWh battery pack and a 147-hp electric motor. 

Nissan Leaf Plus models use a larger 62.0-kWh battery and a 214-hp electric motor.

The 147-hp Leaf accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds during Car and Driver testing, but testers have not evaluated the new EV’s more potent powertrain. 

Effective range is the Nissan Leaf’s biggest drawback. The standard Leaf battery provides an estimated 149-mile range, and the larger battery in the Leaf S Plus goes 226 miles on a full charge. But other Plus trims have reduced ranges. 

Car and Driver tested a Leaf SV Plus and achieved 180 miles on a fully charged battery at highway speeds. Though these numbers fall below standards set by other new EVs, the Leaf’s low price and upgraded standard features will still entice consumers who don’t have far to drive daily.

The short answer is no. Tesla uses a proprietary charge connection that works only with Tesla vehicles. The Leaf uses a CHAdeMO quick-charging port in addition to plugging into a standard 120-volt or 240-volt outlet. 

Unfortunately, future charging stations are phasing out the CHAdeMO port in favor of CCS (combined charging system) connectors, limiting its availability in most states except California. Nissan says charging time for the Leaf’s battery varies from 35 hours at 110 volts, eight to 11 hours at 220 volts, and as little as 45 minutes at 440 volts. 

Admittedly, the 2022 Nissan Leaf isn’t the best electric car for everyone. With its limited range and dated fast-charging port, the Leaf won’t be a wise choice for a road trip or out-of-town commuter car. However, it isn’t the worst choice for someone who needs a reliable EV for short drives around town.

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