2020 Nissan LEAF
What’s new
- Nissan Safety Shield 360 standard on all Leaf models
- More airbags added for front and rear occupants
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard
- Part of the second Leaf generation introduced for 2018
Pros & Cons
- Quick, smooth acceleration
- Broad complement of standard driver assistance features
- Offers more range than some similarly priced EVs
- Quiet driving experience
- Lacks a telescoping steering wheel
- Limited small-item storage
- The back seats don't fold flat
2020 Nissan LEAF pricing
in Ashburn, VA
2020 Nissan LEAF Review
The Nissan Leaf was the first mass-market electric vehicle to come to America when it debuted for the 2011 model year. It's now in its second generation, which came out for 2018. Nissan has also enhanced the 2020 model with more standard driver-assistance features, more airbags, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration.
In base form, the 2020 Leaf is one of the more affordable EVs around. For the money, you get 150 miles of estimated range and a 147-horsepower electric motor. If you're looking for an accessible EV for typical city commuting, it's a solid choice. Alternatively, you can upgrade to the 214-hp Leaf Plus that has an estimated range of up to 226 miles.
There are more choices for an electric vehicle than ever before. Topping the list is the Tesla Model 3. It's more expensive than the Leaf, but it's a lot more rewarding to drive and has an arguably higher prestige factor. We're also partial to the Kia Niro EV and the Hyundai Kona Electric. These models have crossover SUV-like styling and more range than the Leaf. Overall, however, the pioneering Leaf still has a seat at the table and is certainly worth a look if you're shopping for an affordable and well-equipped EV.
What's it like to live with the Leaf?
Edmunds owned a Nissan Leaf for one year and drove it almost 10,000 miles. To learn more about our experiences, visit the long-term page for our 2018 Nissan Leaf SL. We cover everything from seat comfort to real-world electric range. We found the low maintenance costs and competitive pricing attractive, though its interior gave us an economy-car vibe. Please note that while the 2020 Nissan Leaf is not significantly different than our long-term Leaf, the available Plus trim now has a larger battery for more range. It's the same generation, though, so most of our observations still apply.
Our verdict
7.9 / 10How does it drive?
8.0As with most EVs, smooth, instant power and a total absence of shifting make the Nissan Leaf ridiculously easy to drive. The low-slung battery also helps the Leaf hug the road, and it has the balance and coordination necessary to inspire confidence when going around turns.
How comfortable is it?
8.5The Leaf's electric drive components don't make any noise and lack the commotion that a non-EV car makes when it changes gears. Wind and road noise is the remaining potential noise source, but it isn't overly prominent.
How’s the interior?
7.0Generously sized windows and a fairly low cowl contribute to good visibility, but the rear roof pillar is slightly broader than before and produces a bigger blind spot. Our main gripe pertains to the shifter, which is so odd that it includes its own user diagram.
How’s the tech?
8.5How’s the storage?
7.5For family duty, the Leaf has wide-opening doors and a near-horizontal roofline that makes it easy to access strapped-in children. The fairly generous amount of backseat room also helps for installing rear-facing seats. The three top tether anchors are easy to use, but the lower car seat anchors are somewhat buried in a gap in the seat cushions.
How economical is it?
9.0Is it a good value?
8.5Wildcard
7.5Which LEAF does Edmunds recommend?
Nissan LEAF models
The 2020 Nissan Leaf is a compact electric hatchback available in two versions: the regular Leaf and the Leaf Plus. The two differ mainly in their battery. The regular Leaf has a 40-kWh battery that's good for about 150 miles of range. Nissan upgrades the Leaf Plus with a 60-kWh battery that provides 226 miles of range. The Plus also has a more powerful 214-horsepower electric motor compared to the regular model's 147-hp motor.
The Leaf comes in three trim levels: S, SV and SL. The S starts out with features such as keyless ignition and entry, a tilt-only steering wheel, automatic climate control, a height-adjustable driver's seat, an 8-inch touchscreen, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration.
For 2020, the Leaf also comes standard with a collection of advanced safety features (Safety Shield 360) that includes forward and rear collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and a blind-spot monitor.
The optional Charge package (standard on the Leaf Plus S) includes a DC fast-charger port (CHAdeMO standard) and a portable charge cable capable of connecting to 120- and 240-volt sources.
The SV comes with the Charge package plus more features such as adaptive cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an integrated navigation system, and an upgraded audio system. Optional for the SV Plus is the SV Technology package. It adds LED headlights, a power-adjustable driver's seat, a surround-view parking camera system, and Nissan's ProPilot Assist system that adds enhanced versions of the adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems.
Also optional for the SV is an All-Weather package with heated side mirrors, heated front seats and steering wheel, rear heater vents and a heat-pump cabin heater.
As the top trim, the SL comes loaded up with all of the above plus leather upholstery, a Bose seven-speaker sound system and a cargo cover.
Sponsored cars related to the LEAF
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2020 Nissan LEAF.
Trending topics in reviews
- acceleration
Most helpful consumer reviews
Great car with peppy acceleration but just know it has mandatory sounds. Both forward and reverse “warning” sounds cannot be turned off. Otherwise a very nice car.
Features & Specs
| S 4dr Hatchback electric DD | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $31,600 |
| MPG | 123 city / 99 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 1-speed direct drive |
| Horsepower | 147 hp @ 3282 rpm |
| SL PLUS 4dr Hatchback electric DD | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $43,900 |
| MPG | 114 city / 94 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 1-speed direct drive |
| Horsepower | N/A |
| SV 4dr Hatchback electric DD | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $34,190 |
| MPG | 123 city / 99 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 1-speed direct drive |
| Horsepower | 147 hp @ 3282 rpm |
| SV PLUS 4dr Hatchback electric DD | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $39,750 |
| MPG | 114 city / 94 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 1-speed direct drive |
| Horsepower | N/A |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite LEAF safety features:
- ProPilot Assist
- Includes stop-and-go traffic-adaptive cruise control and can keep the car centered within your lane to reduce driver fatigue.
- Advanced Airbag System
- The front airbags adjust inflation rate based on crash severity, and side bags adjust based on seat position, helping to minimize injury.
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Detects an imminent front collision. Can warn the driver and automatically apply the brakes if necessary.
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
| Side Impact Test | Good |
|---|---|
| Roof Strength Test | Not Tested |
| Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Good |
| IIHS Small Overlap Front Test | Not Tested |
| Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good |
Nissan Leaf vs. the competition
Nissan Leaf vs. Tesla Model 3
The Model 3 ranks as our favorite EV. It's more fun to drive than the Leaf and offers at least 250 miles of range. You also get access to Tesla's Supercharger nationwide network of fast-charging stations. In the Leaf's favor are its lower price and versatile hatchback design.
Nissan Leaf vs. Kia Niro EV
Even though Kia markets its Niro as a crossover SUV, it's really more like a high-riding hatchback. With a range estimate of 239 miles, it edges out the Leaf Plus. On top of that, it's fairly fun to drive. The Leaf, however, is a little less expensive in its regular configuration.
Nissan Leaf vs. Hyundai Kona Electric
As a distant cousin of the Kia Niro EV, the Hyundai Kona Electric is another great choice for an EV. Estimated range is an impressive 258 miles. It's fun to drive and it comes with a lot of standard features. As is the case with the other rivals here, the Leaf's main advantage is its lower starting price.
FAQ
Is the Nissan LEAF a good car?
What's new in the 2020 Nissan LEAF?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Nissan LEAF:
- Nissan Safety Shield 360 standard on all Leaf models
- More airbags added for front and rear occupants
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard
- Part of the second Leaf generation introduced for 2018
Is the Nissan LEAF reliable?
Is the 2020 Nissan LEAF a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2020 Nissan LEAF?
The least-expensive 2020 Nissan LEAF is the 2020 Nissan LEAF S 4dr Hatchback (electric DD). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $31,600.
Other versions include:
- S 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) which starts at $31,600
- SL PLUS 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) which starts at $43,900
- SV 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) which starts at $34,190
- SV PLUS 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) which starts at $39,750
- S PLUS 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) which starts at $38,200
What are the different models of Nissan LEAF?
More about the 2020 Nissan LEAF
2020 Nissan LEAF Overview
The 2020 Nissan LEAF is offered in the following submodels: LEAF Hatchback. Available styles include S 4dr Hatchback (electric DD), SL PLUS 4dr Hatchback (electric DD), SV 4dr Hatchback (electric DD), SV PLUS 4dr Hatchback (electric DD), and S PLUS 4dr Hatchback (electric DD).
What do people think of the 2020 Nissan LEAF?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2020 Nissan LEAF and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2020 LEAF 4.0 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2020 LEAF.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2020 Nissan LEAF and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2020 LEAF featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2020 Nissan LEAF?
2020 Nissan LEAF SL PLUS 4dr Hatchback (electric DD)
The 2020 Nissan LEAF SL PLUS 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $44,825. The average price paid for a new 2020 Nissan LEAF SL PLUS 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) is trending $6,648 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6,648 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $38,177.
The average savings for the 2020 Nissan LEAF SL PLUS 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) is 14.8% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 4 2020 Nissan LEAF SL PLUS 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2020 Nissan LEAF SV 4dr Hatchback (electric DD)
The 2020 Nissan LEAF SV 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $35,115. The average price paid for a new 2020 Nissan LEAF SV 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) is trending $6,601 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6,601 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $28,514.
The average savings for the 2020 Nissan LEAF SV 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) is 18.8% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 18 2020 Nissan LEAF SV 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2020 Nissan LEAF S 4dr Hatchback (electric DD)
The 2020 Nissan LEAF S 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $32,525. The average price paid for a new 2020 Nissan LEAF S 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) is trending $6,319 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6,319 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $26,206.
The average savings for the 2020 Nissan LEAF S 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) is 19.4% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2020 Nissan LEAF S 4dr Hatchback (electric DD) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Which 2020 Nissan LEAFS are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2020 Nissan LEAF for sale near. There are currently 71 new 2020 LEAFS listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $34,610 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2020 Nissan LEAF. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $8,184 on a used or CPO 2020 LEAF available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2020 Nissan LEAFs you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Nissan LEAF for sale - 11 great deals out of 11 listings starting at $24,296.
Find a new Nissan for sale - 7 great deals out of 12 listings starting at $24,740.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2020 Nissan LEAF?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Nissan lease specials