2023 Nissan Leaf Arrives With Updated Design, Smaller Lineup

author: Vineeth Joel Patel   

The Nissan Leaf is one of the older nameplates in the electric-vehicle segment, having come out in 2011 as one of the first electric cars on sale. Since then, the Leaf has stood out as an affordable, no-frills electric car for the masses. With the Ariya set to arrive at dealerships later this summer, the Leaf will soon be overshadowed by a newer, more luxurious, and more high-tech electric car. To keep the Leaf relevant once the Ariya arrives, Nissan has updated the 2023 model.

Small Updates Before Ariya Arrives

On the outside, the Leaf now features a revised design, though you'll have a hard time finding differences between the 2023 model and the one that's currently on sale. At the front of the electric hatchback, the bumper, headlights, and grille have all been updated. You'll also find updated body elements throughout the body for improved aerodynamics. The main difference between the 2023 Leaf and the 2022 model is the sharp multispoke wheels.

Nissan has also trimmed the Leaf's lineup for 2023. The current Leaf is available in five trims, while the 2023 Leaf will be available in two. It's a large difference, but it results in a more streamlined shopping experience for consumers. The 2023 Nissan Leaf will be available in a base S trim and the mid-level SV Plus trim.

Important Specs Go Unchanged

The S trim will continue to come with a 40-kWh battery pack and a 147-horsepower electric motor. The SV Plus trim will feature a 60-kWh battery pack, as well as a 214-hp electric motor. Despite the aerodynamic changes, we don't expect to see the Leaf's range figures change for 2023. That means the base S trim will have 149 miles of range and the SV Plus trim to have a range of 215 miles.

While Nissan has made changes to the 2023 Leaf, pricing for the electric vehicle remains the same as the current model. At a time when new car vehicles are more expensive than ever, Nissan has to be commended for updating a vehicle and not charging extra for it. The Leaf S will carry a starting price tag of $28,425, while the SV Plus will cost $36,425. The 2023 Leaf will go on sale this summer.

It's nice to see Nissan update the Leaf, as the electric vehicle could use some love. Unfortunately, the Leaf needs a full redesign. The platform is essentially a decade old and rumors point toward an update to move onto the new CMF-EV platform. The Ariya is a far more modern EV than the Leaf, which is apparent from the charging connectors. The Leaf has a CHAdeMO connector, while the Ariya comes with the newer CCS connector. The 2023 update should help the Leaf be competitive until Nissan comes out with an all-new model.

Vineeth Joel Patel

Joel Patel has been covering all aspects of the automotive industry for four years as an editor and freelance writer for various websites. When it comes to cars, he enjoys covering the merger between technology and cars. In his spare time, Joel likes to watch baseball, work on his car, and try new foods