About the Nissan Leaf Mk2
AI-generatedThe Nissan Leaf Mk2 (2017-present) represents a significant evolution of the world's best-selling electric vehicle. This second generation brought a completely redesigned exterior with sharper styling, improved aerodynamics, and a more conventional appearance that helped shed the quirky image of the original. Initially launched with a 40kWh battery offering around 168 miles of real-world range, Nissan expanded the lineup in 2019 with the Leaf e+ featuring a 62kWh battery pack delivering approximately 239 miles of range. The Mk2 also introduced ProPILOT semi-autonomous driving technology and e-Pedal one-pedal driving, making it more technologically advanced than its predecessor. Powered by a 148bhp motor in the standard 40kWh version or a 214bhp motor in the e+, the Leaf Mk2 offers nippy acceleration and refined, silent driving. It supports rapid charging up to 50kW (40kWh) or 100kW (62kWh), though charging speeds can taper significantly as the battery fills. The interior is spacious with good rear legroom and a 405-litre boot, making it practical for families. While not the most exciting EV to drive, it remains reliable, affordable to run, and represents excellent value in the used market as depreciation has been steep. The lack of active battery thermal management remains a concern for long-term battery health, particularly for those doing frequent rapid charging.
Known Issues
Known Issues
Mk2 (2017-present)
2017-present
- Rapid gate: Rapid charging speeds reduce significantly in hot weather or after consecutive charges due to lack of active battery cooling
- 12V auxiliary battery failures causing complete loss of power and inability to start the vehicle
- Infotainment system freezes and requires hard reset, particularly on earlier models
- ProPILOT sensor calibration issues causing false warnings or system unavailability
- Paint quality concerns, particularly stone chips on the bonnet and front bumper
- Condensation inside headlight units on some early models
- e-Pedal mode can be overly aggressive for some drivers and may increase brake wear paradoxically
- Charging port cover actuator failures preventing opening or closing
- Range anxiety exacerbated by optimistic range estimates, particularly in cold weather
- Tyre wear can be higher than expected due to instant torque and vehicle weight
Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£400-£600
Insurance Group
18-26
Average Service
£150-£250
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent value for money in the used market with steep depreciation working in buyers' favour
- Very low running costs with cheap electricity compared to petrol or diesel
- Refined, quiet, and relaxing to drive with instant torque delivery
- Spacious interior with good rear legroom and decent boot space for a family EV
- ProPILOT semi-autonomous system works well on motorways
- e-Pedal one-pedal driving is intuitive and efficient once mastered
- Zero road tax (VED) for zero-emission vehicle
Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2019 - Introduction of the 62kWh e+ model with significantly improved range and power, plus refinements to infotainment system and build quality improvements based on early feedback
- 2021 - Later models benefit from manufacturing improvements, updated software, and better quality control, while still offering good value before 2022 price increases
Worst Years
- 2018 - Early production year with more reports of 12V battery issues, infotainment glitches, and build quality inconsistencies, while only offering the 40kWh battery option with limited range
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The Leaf Mk2 was the first mainstream EV to offer one-pedal driving with its e-Pedal system, which can bring the car to a complete stop using only regenerative braking.
Nissan's 'Chademo' rapid charging standard is gradually being phased out in favour of CCS, which can make finding compatible rapid chargers more challenging in some areas.
The Leaf Mk2 shares its platform with the Renault Zoe but is significantly larger and more practical.
Over 500,000 Leafs have been sold globally across both generations, making it the best-selling EV nameplate until Tesla overtook it.
Gallery
Alternatives to Consider
Renault Zoe
Smaller but more efficient with better range-per-kWh, though less spacious and uses the same Chademo charging limitation on older models
Hyundai Kona Electric
Better range, faster charging with CCS, more engaging to drive, and superior interior quality, though more expensive to buy
Kia e-Niro
Excellent real-world range, 7-year warranty, practical SUV body style, and better efficiency, but commands higher used prices
MG ZS EV
More affordable, SUV styling, decent range, though less refined and older-feeling technology
Volkswagen ID.3
More modern platform, faster charging, better technology, and superior interior, but more expensive and newer to the used market
Owner Tips
- 1Monitor your 12V auxiliary battery health as failures can leave you stranded - consider replacing it preventatively every 3-4 years
- 2Pre-condition the cabin while still plugged in to save battery range, especially in winter
- 3Avoid multiple consecutive rapid charges on hot days to prevent 'rapid gate' charging speed reductions
- 4Check battery state of health (SOH) before purchase - aim for above 85% on used vehicles
- 5Use e-Pedal mode in urban driving for maximum efficiency and reduced brake wear
- 6Keep the infotainment system updated to avoid software glitches
- 7Plan longer journeys carefully using apps like Zap-Map to locate working Chademo chargers
- 8Consider a home wallbox charger for convenient overnight charging at cheaper rates
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