2011 Nissan Leaf
Manufacturer: Nissan USA Part number: 20353201
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Accessories
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The 2011 Nissan Leaf is a perfect car for many commuters in urban or suburban areas with access to a garage, significantly reducing the everyday cost of transportation, but it's completely impractical for those with longer commutes.
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CNET editors' review
2011 Nissan Leaf price range: $32,780.00
- Reviewed by: Wayne Cunningham
- Reviewed on: 12/06/2010
The good: A completely electric powertrain marks the 2011 Nissan Leaf as the first of a new breed of car, and per mile, electricity costs about 70 percent less than gasoline. Navigation, a Bluetooth phone system, telematics, and an iPod connection all come standard, and the car includes a database of charging stations.
The bad: A range of about 100 miles limits the car's tasks, and recharging takes hours at a standard AC outlet. Using the climate control takes a significant toll on range.
The bottom line: The 2011 Nissan Leaf is a perfect car for many commuters in urban or suburban areas with access to a garage, significantly reducing the everyday cost of transportation, but it's completely impractical for those with longer commutes.
User reviews
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An amazing car that I can't wait to own
by SeattleBlueLeaf on December 7, 2010
Pros: 95% of all our car travel will be able to be done with the Leaf. The Hydro power here in the NW means that we can truly do it with zero emissions.
Even with coal plants making the electricity, its a better choice than gas. Only one pipe to fix.Cons: 100 miles. I'd like 300 but the technology will come along soon enough
Summary: An amazing car and I have been converted from a life long Honda customer to a (from now on) Nissan one. They stuck their necks out here and came up ...
Summary: An amazing car and I have been converted from a life long Honda customer to a (from now on) Nissan one. They stuck their necks out here and came up roses.
5 out of 7 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Cool car, nice to see more options on the road now
by prberg on December 7, 2010
Pros: Reduces our dependance on foreign oil, less emissions than regular gasoline cars, good pickup, cool technology
Cons: Has a limited range. Have to plan a bit more when I want to drive more than 100 miles.
Summary: I was lucky enough to get to test drive the LEAF at a Nissan drive event. A pretty cool car. Easy to use.. just turn it on and start driving. ...
Summary: I was lucky enough to get to test drive the LEAF at a Nissan drive event. A pretty cool car. Easy to use.. just turn it on and start driving. It has some really nice pickup from a stop light. Lots of torque. I love the fact that is emits less air pollution than most other cars. The car has 0 emissions.. but the power plant does emit some pollution (but alot less than if I was driving my gasoline car). We put in solar panels on our house.. so we can use that power to charge our LEAF! How cool.
One other feature that I really liked was the audio system. I can plug in my USB flash drive and have all my music right there to play immediately. Cool feature. The leg room was pretty good for me (I am 6'1").
The only real disadvantage for us is the limited range. But 100 miles will work for most of our driving. Will work great for when I drive to work, run errands, visit family, etc. Not great for a big road trip though. It won't work for everyone... but good to see alternatives out there. I love being able to reduce our dependance on foreign oil. We can make our own electricity right here in the USA.
Cool.3 out of 4 users found this user opinion helpful.
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A HUGE step in the Right Direction
by heymikemason on December 28, 2010
Pros: -Drives great
-Outstanding Cabin Tech
-Bye-bye, oil dependency
-Comfortable, QuietCons: -Limited range means it's not for everyone
-Hyper-environmentalists will cause "smug alerts"
-Rabid haters of everything green will give drivers threatening glancesSummary: The pros and cons have been argued ad nauseum. Drive one yourself and see if you like it. I did. Then, decide if you can survive on 80-100 miles per ...
Summary: The pros and cons have been argued ad nauseum. Drive one yourself and see if you like it. I did. Then, decide if you can survive on 80-100 miles per day (the cabin tech makes it idiot-proof). If the car works for you, buy it. But please don't rant about how it's not good for the environment or its a step in the wrong direction. Anything that decreases (foreign or domestic) oil dependence is a good thing. And for the naysayers who repeatedly say that electric cars generate more emissions because of coal, check this out:
From: "Busting the Myths About electric Cars" - Coal-burning utilities mean electric cars will make emissions worse" (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2010/nov/30/busting-myths-electric-cars)
Hardly. Even in predominantly coal-burning regions, an electric car releases 35 to 60 percent less CO2 than a comparable conventional car, according to industry think tank Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI). In areas with an ecofriendly power mix, the emissions are up to 75 percent lower. EPRI transportation expert Mark Duvall points out that "as the grid gets cleaner-which it almost certainly will-electric cars will get cleaner, too." Bonus: Unlike gas, which is refined largely from imported petroleum, electricity flows from domestic sources.2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Nissan sets the bar very high with the Leaf - Go EVs ;)
by mikonline on December 7, 2010
Pros: For a "first" it seems well polished, if you drive less than 80 miles/day, everybody wins ;)
Even if you don't care about the others, the Leaf is still a pleasure, relaxing experience to drive with a fraction of the cost in energy and services.Cons: No satelite real life picture imagery like Google Maps Navigation on Android.
No wifi portable hotspot like Android 2.2 for sharing 3g internet connection with other devices in the car (ipad, laptop, smartphone, etc).Summary: There is nothing like this in the market, and if Nissan didn't came out with the Leaf, probably we would still have years to wait for an afordable EV ...
Summary: There is nothing like this in the market, and if Nissan didn't came out with the Leaf, probably we would still have years to wait for an afordable EV that is usefull for everyday, and Nissan deserves credit for this.
Every one will win with this cars, it's our world, the cities we bread need clean air.2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Welcome to the EV Revolution
by llaumann on December 7, 2010
Pros: 0-60 mph in 7 seconds. Silent acceleration. Fill up for $3. At home. Motor contains 1 (one) moving part. No oil, no coolant, clutch, transmission, radiator, timing belt, water pump, filters or hoses. In short, no service or repairs needed.
Cons: Limited range of about 100 miles, but there are promising battery technologies on the horizon.
Summary: This is the perfect car for my 12-mile commute in San Diego, CA. I took 4 test drives at the Nissan event in San Diego. The acceleration is quiet, smooth ...
Summary: This is the perfect car for my 12-mile commute in San Diego, CA. I took 4 test drives at the Nissan event in San Diego. The acceleration is quiet, smooth and quick. I currently drive a two-seater turbo sports car, and I am looking forward to delivery of my LEAF because I liked the acceleration and handling characteristics. The car is stylish and I was highly impressed with its quality. I would NOT recommend the LEAF if you live in the sticks, or in very cold or hot climates. You will be limited by the 100 mile range, and heater and air conditioning affect the range. Currently the government and industry are working on battery technologies, so the range will increase in the coming years. Everyone else, Welcome. I just have to say that you will see a lot of vehement opposition to this technology by the status quo: the oil industry, auto parts companies, auto service companies, Middle Eastern countries...
2 out of 4 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Zero Tailpipe, Zero Gas, 100% Electric
by Leafygroovy on February 19, 2012
Pros: - Quite
- Fun to drive
- Efficient
- Clean
- Oil Independence
- Low fuel cost
- Almost no maintenanceCons: Need second car for longer trips, lack of fast chargers, rebate savings not immediate
Summary: The Leaf has become the go to car. It's the nicest car in the garage with the most features and is the most fun to drive. Green light and ...
Summary: The Leaf has become the go to car. It's the nicest car in the garage with the most features and is the most fun to drive. Green light and around town performance is very good. Zero to 60 is about 10 seconds and there is plenty of speed for freeway driving. Unlike gas vehicles there is no noise and no vibrations. Without the music on you can actually hear the engines of other cars. Fuel cost is very low, around $.03 per mile and maintenance after 7500 miles involves rotating the tires, the car practically takes car of itself. With the rebates the car cost was about $30,000 with tax and fees included. Nissan says the battery will last at least 8 years and the technology will be better by then. It will be cheaper to buy a new battery then a new car, and the fuel and low maintenance savings will likely cover more then the new battery cost. Fast chargers will also help extend the 70-100 mile range.
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A Delightful Commuting Appliance!
by Cupriwhorl on August 24, 2011
Pros: No gasoline, oil, or coolant consumption, ever. Oil still used for tires and wiper blades, but oh well.
Extreme mechanical simplicity and therefore, hopefully, reliability to match.
The battery - the component most limiting to the car's overall utilityCons: Well, the limited range, obviously, as well as the admonitions against too-frequent use of L3 chargers.
No active temperature regulation for the battery pack like the Chevy Volt, Tesla, or Ford Fusion Electric designs use.Summary: My commute is only 22 miles each day, so I can't realistically expect that the reduced operating costs (two cents a mile, vs. about twenty for my old ICE ...
Summary: My commute is only 22 miles each day, so I can't realistically expect that the reduced operating costs (two cents a mile, vs. about twenty for my old ICE car, plus oilchanges and maintenance) will offset the premium I paid for the LEAF. But if your commute comes closer to the 60 mile comfortable roundtrip range (assuming the kinder-to-battery 80% recharge, and allowing for a little battery capacity loss), then take a serious look at the operating costs, 'cause a LEAF will come very close to being financially viable for you. If your commute is 30 to 60 miles each way, and your employer will make recharging available at their end, it's a clear winner (except for the question of why you'd want to spend so much of your time driving even as nice a car as the LEAF).
But there's also some value to the Leaf's much more pleasant driving experience. When my previous car (a '99 Eclipse GSX) just barely started after sitting idle for about a month, I realized I'm going to have to use it at least one or two days a month, if I'm going to keep it ready for long trips. When I took it out, I was AMAZED at the difference between it and the Leaf. The Eclipse always did kind of sound like its moving parts were made of sandstone, but I'd gotten used to it. After a month in the Leaf, though, going back to the Eclipse was a loud, smelly, hot, vibration-fest (OK, maybe not quite fair comparing cars of such different ages). Still, driving the Leaf is grin-inducing.
Maybe I'm still suffering from new-car euphoria; let's see how it goes over the next few months. -
Great commuter car. Economical, nippy around town
by JPWhite on August 5, 2011
Pros: With all the mod cons, this is a very nice car to drive. It is quick off the blocks, acceleration from between 0-40 is outstanding, above that is sub par but even so the response is immediate.
Ability to turn on A/C remotely via web or phone app prior toCons: Very limited range. This is ONLY a commuter car, no touring in this car.
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NIce. Very Nice
by sh0223 on July 28, 2011
Pros: Totally electric, it will take me years to learn all of the features. Very comfortable, both in the front and back. I've read reviews complaining about the rear seats. Extremely roomy as far as I'm concerned, and I weigh over 200 pounds. Drives like a
Cons: Range about 75 to 100 miles on one charge, depending on conditions. Fine for me, because it's just for around town. Retired, not a daily commuter.
Summary: Also have a solar array on the roof. While charging my Leaf with the 120 volt charger, my electric meter was still running backwards. How cool is that! ACTUALLY CHARGING ...
Summary: Also have a solar array on the roof. While charging my Leaf with the 120 volt charger, my electric meter was still running backwards. How cool is that! ACTUALLY CHARGING MY CAR WITH THE SUN! This has been my dream since I was a kid.
It doesn't get any better than that. NO MORE OIL!!!!!!!!!!! -
I hope I'll never have to buy another gas engine car
by EricTDSF on July 24, 2011
Pros: Quiet and smooth ride.
Fun to drive.
No gas!Cons: Range.
Charging infrastructure.
Price.Summary: Finally a car manufacturers is bold enough to put the long awaited electric car into the hands of the masses. We're not talking about a test program or some ...
Summary: Finally a car manufacturers is bold enough to put the long awaited electric car into the hands of the masses. We're not talking about a test program or some local experiment. The LEAF is the real deal. Kudos to Nissan.
The LEAF is not perfect and it's not yet for everyone. But anybody who's willing to learn a new way to drive will be rewarded with all the benefits an electric ride has over a traditional gas car. The first obvious one is you'll never spend a dime on gas ever again. Of course your electricity bill will go up but trust me, electricity is WAY cheaper than gas, even when gas used to be $2 a gallon (keep dreaming). If that's not enough to convince you, think that electric doesn't require oil change, doesn't have countless filters, doesn't need injector cleaning nor timing belt and water pump replacement, has no transmission and not tail pipe to do the smog test.
On top of that the LEAF accelerates and corners like a sports car. It's really fun to drive. I know some people will miss the loud noise of the gas engine but the hissing sound of the DC converter reminds me of a spaceship from a Star Wars movie. Take a ride to the future. Get a LEAF.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Nissan USA
- Part number: 20353201
- Bottom Line: The 2011 Nissan Leaf is a perfect car for many commuters in urban or suburban areas with access to a garage, significantly reducing the everyday cost of transportation, but it's completely impractical for those with longer commutes.
Basic car properties
- Body style Hatchback
- Available Engine Electric
Safety Features
- Smart airbags Standard
- Antilock brakes Standard
- Traction control Standard
- Stability control Standard
- Roadside assistance Standard
- Adaptive cruise control Standard
Entertainment
- Satellite radio Standard
- Connection for portable MP3 sound system Standard
- MP3 CD-enabled sound system Standard
- USB connection Standard
Climate/convenience
- Multizone climate control Standard
- Heated/cooled seats Standard
- Two-way security system Standard
- 12V power outlet Standard
Drivetrain Technology
- Drivetrain available Front-drive
Navigation
- Trip computer Standard
- Live traffic data Standard
- Voice activated navigation Standard
Communication
- Bluetooth phone interface Standard
Accessories
- Alpine PXA-H100 - audio signal processor (32957687)128.88 - 149.99
- Alpine SWR-1243D - car subwoofer driver (34108179)149.00 - 249.99
- Alpine TUA T550HD HD Radio tuner (32856715)99.95 - 199.95
- Alpine MRP M1000 - amplifier (32853918)239.95
- Alpine MRP M500 - amplifier (32855748)141.97 - 319.99
- Alpine X-Power MRX-F30 - amplifier (34639577)157.99 - 299.99
- Alpine CDA-9857 (31732933)199.99
- Alpine CDE 126BT - radio / CD / MP3 player / digital player (34465942)192.26
- Alpine iDA-X305 (33490617)199.99 - 219.95
- Alpine SPS-600 - car speaker (32959223)99.99
- Alpine Type-S SPS-517 - car speaker (34640912)59.95 - 99.99
- Alpine Type-S SPS-600C - car speaker (32906151)108.94
- Garmin nüvi 2370LT - GPS receiver (34825549)259.99
- XOvision navigation system with DVD player, LCD monitor, digital player and radio (34534936)249.00 - 267.57
- Garmin Nuvi 2595LMT GPS receiver (35056758)229.99
Manufacturer info
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Nissan USA products on Shopper.com
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- Manufacturer:Nissan USA
- Address:
Nissan Consumer Affairs, Gardena, CA 90248 - Phone: 1-800-647-7261


