First Impressions

With the global auto industry moving towards an electric vehicle future… the 2019 Nissan LEAF PLUS is boosting power and range for the world’s best-selling electric car. “PLUS” adds 76-miles… extending the distance between charges to a very market competitive 226-miles. The battery grows from 40 kWh to 62 kWh. It’s still under the floor, but has been repackaged…  taking up slightly more space…. while creating a lower center of gravity… and adding to stability. The battery’s juice is used by a stronger retuned 160 Kw electric motor… so horsepower grows by 67 to 214… while torque gains 14… now up to 250 lb. ft.

“With EV’s there’s a lot of torque… it’s what I like the most about them. And that’s certainly the case here. The torque is strong right off the line. The acceleration is swift, smooth and it’s very quiet. There’s almost a sense of gliding as you’re going down the road.”

The LEAF PLUS does pack on an extra 286-pounds of weight from the larger battery. Yet, the stronger motor more than makes up for it with a peppier response. The carryover suspension of MacPherson struts up front and a rear torsion beam keeps the commute comfortable.

Compared to the standard LEAF, the exterior and interior are nearly identical… save for a larger 8-inch touchscreen and updated navigation. The quiet cabin offers a modern techy space with logically laid out controls.

The 2019 Nissan LEAF PLUS grows with the times… becoming even more energized for a future where electricity will play a bigger role in how we drive. On sale now, prices start under $37,000.