The second-generation Nissan Leaf had big boots to fill.
Not literally, being a 4.5m-long family hatch in the vein of the Volkswagen Golf, but certainly figuratively: its forebear had been a visionary electric vehicle at the cutting edge of battery-powered car tech and was instrumental in helping to move EVs into the mainstream.
The Mk2, launched in 2018, was not quite so innovative in its conception. But it improved on the Mk1 Leaf in every single way, from the sleek exterior and more comfortable cabin to the chemistry underneath, which allowed for a real-world range of 200 miles.
There's now a freshly launched Mk3 and it's much more advanced again, but that has helped to make used Mk2 prices even more eye-catching: they start at £3500 and rise to around £15,000 - far less than any new full-sized EV alternative.
It's no less practical, either. The 435-litre boot is significantly larger than a Volkswagen ID 3's, making it a capable family load-lugger, although rear leg and head room are slightly compromised by the battery placement beneath the floor. It's also worth noting that pre-2020 cars lack reach adjustment for the steering wheel, an ergonomic demerit for taller drivers.
The dashboard design is refreshingly straightforward, though, eschewing the minimalist, screen-heavy approach of newer rivals in favour of physical buttons for the climate controls. A 7in infotainment screen (later upgraded to 8in) handles navigation and media duties; it feels a bit dated and slow by modern standards, but it is incredibly simple to operate on the move. An e-Golf has a nicer interior, but a far shorter range.
Speaking of range, most Leafs offer an official 170 miles from a 40/39kWh (total/usable capacity) battery. Expect closer to 150 miles in the real world, or less on the motorway or on a cold day. If you're going longer distances, the Leaf can accept up to 50kW through a Chademo public charger, which are getting rarer.
Unless you are using a Leaf as a station car or for the school run, we would recommend the longer-legged 'e+' model, which has a 62/59kWh battery for an official 239-mile range, or around 200 miles in the real world. It can also charge more quickly, at 100kW, for a 20-80% refill in less than an hour - still through a Chademo plug.
Both battery options are pretty efficient by modern EV standards, though, so they're very cheap to run if you're charging from home via a three-pin socket or wallbox.
The Leaf is a fine urban companion. Smooth, remarkably quiet and exceptionally easy to drive, it is at its best trundling around town. But on the open road it remains perfectly competent. Its suspension is set up to deliver comfort rather than handling thrills, yet even if you do push on it remains neutral and easy to gauge on a meandering road.
