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2019 Nissan Leaf Plus Review: A Quick Drive That Eases Range Anxiety

Nissan Leaf Plus Review: Extended Range EV Performance & Charging Explained | MotorVero

Nissan Leaf Plus: A Comprehensive Review of Range, Power, and Charging

Nissan Leaf Plus review

Rewriting the Electric Narrative: From Range Anxiety to Confidence

Range anxiety once loomed large over early EV adopters, and perhaps no car personified that concern more than the original 2011 Nissan Leaf. With a modest 73-mile EPA-estimated range, drivers were often planning their trips around charging stations rather than destinations. Today, however, Nissan has reimagined the Leaf, with the Leaf Plus leading the charge — pun intended — in combating outdated perceptions about electric mobility.

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Introducing the Nissan Leaf Plus: More Power, More Distance

The 2019 Nissan Leaf Plus takes a significant step forward with a high-capacity 62 kWh battery capable of delivering up to 226 miles of range on a single charge. That's a remarkable improvement over the standard 40 kWh Leaf’s 150-mile range. This substantial leap places the Leaf Plus closer to rivals like the Hyundai Kona Electric (258 miles) and the Chevrolet Bolt EV (238 miles).

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Performance and Driving Dynamics

Despite sharing the same electric motor layout as the standard Leaf, the Leaf Plus offers a considerable boost in output: 214 horsepower compared to the base model’s 147 hp. While it carries about 350 extra pounds due to the larger battery pack, the additional torque translates into better highway acceleration and passing capability — especially noticeable when overtaking at speed.

City driving is relaxed and responsive, with light-effort steering and a smooth, silent powertrain. However, the Leaf Plus’s ride can feel firm, especially over rough pavement, reminding you that it's not a luxury EV but a practical daily driver.

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Charging Technology and Real-World Usability

Charging efficiency is key for any EV. The Leaf Plus is equipped with a standard 6.6-kW onboard charger and includes a DC fast-charging port — the latter optional on the base Leaf. At home using a 240-volt charger, expect a full charge in about 11.5 hours. With a 50-kW fast charger, you can reach 80% in approximately 60 minutes. However, when connected to a 100-kW charger, the Leaf Plus shortens this time to 45 minutes.

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Interior Experience: Tech and Comfort

electric vehicle range

Inside, the Leaf Plus offers familiar Nissan styling — nothing revolutionary, but functionally sound. It comes with an intuitive infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist for semi-autonomous driving. Rear seat space is adequate for adults, and cargo room remains competitive with other hatchbacks in this segment.

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Trim Levels and Pricing Comparison

The Leaf Plus is available in several trims, with the entry-level S Plus starting at $37,445 (destination included). While that’s slightly higher than some base electric rivals, remember that the Leaf still qualifies for the full $7,500 federal tax credit in many cases, unlike the Chevrolet Bolt EV.

Other trim levels — SV Plus and SL Plus — offer additional tech, comfort, and safety features but at a premium. Still, even the base S Plus trim provides the enhanced range and essential charging upgrades that define the Leaf Plus experience.

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Leaf vs. Bolt EV vs. Kona Electric: Which Comes Out Ahead?

  • Nissan Leaf Plus: Up to 226-mile range, smooth drive, still eligible for federal credit
  • Chevrolet Bolt EV: 238-mile range, no longer fully tax credit eligible
  • Hyundai Kona Electric: 258-mile range, limited availability by region

While the Bolt and Kona have slight advantages in range, the Leaf Plus hits a sweet spot with its balance of performance, pricing, and nationwide availability — a critical factor when buying an EV today.

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Is the Extra Range Worth the Upgrade?

Compared to the standard Leaf, the Leaf Plus commands a $6,560 premium. While that might seem steep, the peace of mind offered by 76 additional miles of range could be invaluable for long-distance commuters or those lacking convenient charging infrastructure. For most daily drivers, however, the regular Leaf’s 150-mile range may still suffice.

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Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Both the Leaf and Leaf Plus represent an environmentally conscious shift in personal transportation. By eliminating tailpipe emissions and reducing dependence on fossil fuels, they play a meaningful role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. With more accessible pricing and incentives, these EVs offer eco-friendly commuting without compromising modern conveniences.

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Final Verdict: A Practical, Future-Ready EV

The 2019 Nissan Leaf Plus delivers where it counts: longer range, added power, and improved fast-charging — all while maintaining the affordability and reliability that have defined the Leaf for over a decade. For EV buyers seeking real-world usability and nationwide availability, the Leaf Plus deserves a close look.

Whether you're transitioning from a gas-powered car or upgrading from an older EV, the Leaf Plus bridges the gap between budget-friendly and long-range electric driving. It's not just a smarter choice — it's a better EV for today’s roads.

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Last Updated On May, 31-2025

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