2023 Nissan Leaf Gets Minor Updates, Simplified Lineup
Nissan has announced a slightly updated version of its venerable Leaf electric hatchback for the 2023 model year that will appear at the 2022 New York International Auto Show, featuring mildly redone styling and the elimination of three of the five trim levels it offered for 2022. The two remaining trims are the cost-leader Leaf S and the mid-level Leaf SV Plus; the range-topping Leaf S Plus as well as the Leaf SV and Leaf SL Plus have been discontinued. Nissan says this simplification of the lineup is in keeping with the most popular versions ordered by customers.
Related: More 2022 New York Auto Show Coverage
Minimal Changes
In the styling department, the new ‘23 Leaf looks much like its predecessor. The changes are limited to a refreshed grille, bumper molding and headlights with new black inner linings. The Nissan badge has been updated to the new look that Nissan is spreading across the lineup and is now illuminated. Aerodynamic improvements have also been made, changing the shape of the tire deflectors, the rear underbody diffuser and the rear spoiler. The SV Plus model also comes with new five-spoke, 17-inch aluminum wheels.
Inside, not much changes. Black cloth seats are standard on both models, with gray finishers for Leaf S and gloss black for SV Plus. A new video start-up animation also plays on the instrument panel screen while the new Nissan badge is front and center in the steering wheel airbag cover.
The mechanicals of the Leaf have not changed, so the S will still come equipped with a 40 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery and a 147-horsepower electric motor, while the SV Plus upgrades to a 60-kWh battery and a 214-hp motor. Nissan has not made any mention of price or range changes, only to say that both will be similar to the 2022 model year.
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Reimagining Its Electric Lineup
We find it interesting that Nissan has dropped the driving-range-leading model from the lineup because the 2022 Leaf S is rated at only 150 miles of range from its rather small battery and the SV Plus is rated at 215 miles. The disappearing S Plus model got 226 miles of range, but perhaps Nissan’s aerodynamic changes to the 2023 will allow drivers to eke out a few more miles above the old SV Plus’ range. As for pricing, the Leaf remains the cheapest electric vehicle on the market by a considerable sum, ringing in at $28,425 (including destination charges) before any possible $7,500 tax credits are levied, which depend on an individual’s eligibility. With Nissan’s new Ariya mid-size electric SUV expected this year — and its next-generation systems and far better range — it makes sense for Nissan to jigger the Leaf lineup to the more salable and popular offerings as it begins its likely swan song.
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