Nissan Leaf 24 kWh

Overview

The 2018 Nissan Leaf 24 kWh represents the final curtain call for the first-generation of this pioneering electric hatchback. Positioned as an incredibly affordable entry into the EV world, especially on the used market where it can be found for around $2,900, this Leaf is all about simple, zero-emission motoring. Its key highlights are its proven (if older) tech, compact practicality for city driving, and super low running costs. It’s a no-frills, budget-friendly electric warrior that got many people started on their EV journey and remains a bargain basement option.

What's New for 2018?

For the 2018 model year, the big news for the Leaf was an all-new second generation. This specific 24 kWh first-generation model, however, marks the very end of its production run, essentially carrying over unchanged from the 2017 version. It served as a super-affordable entry point into EV ownership as Nissan transitioned to the revamped, longer-range Leaf. Think of it as the seasoned veteran making its final bow, offering proven tech at a rock-bottom price. Its main "new" feature for 2018 was simply its continued availability as an ultra-cheap EV option.

Design & Exterior

The 2018 Leaf 24 kWh sports the familiar, somewhat quirky design of the first-generation model, with its distinctive upward-sweeping headlights and aerodynamic, slightly bug-eyed silhouette. It's a design focused more on efficiency than aggressive styling. Measuring 175 inches in length, 69.7 inches in width (mirrors excluded), and 61 inches in height, it’s a compact hatch well-suited for urban environments. This particular trim likely featured basic wheel covers and a functional, unpretentious look, emphasizing its role as an accessible EV rather than a style icon.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Hop inside the 2018 Leaf 24 kWh, and you’ll find a straightforward, no-nonsense cabin. It’s more about practicality than pizzazz, with durable materials. Passenger space is adequate for a compact hatch. You get 13.1 cubic feet of trunk space, expanding to a useful 25.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, though there's no frunk for extra bits. Tech-wise, expect the basics: a simple infotainment system, likely with a smaller display, Bluetooth, and a USB port, pre-dating widespread Apple CarPlay or Android Auto integration in this base iteration.

Performance & Driving Experience

The 2018 Leaf 24 kWh isn't about tire-shredding speed, managing the 0-60 mph dash in a leisurely 10 seconds. Its 80 kW (around 107 hp) front-wheel-drive Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor delivers 187 lb-ft of instant torque, making it feel surprisingly nippy and responsive for city driving. The experience is smooth, exceptionally quiet, and incredibly easy – perfect for daily commutes. Ride comfort is generally good, and it offers a 'B-mode' for stronger regenerative braking, helping to gently top up the battery as you slow down.

Range, Battery & Charging

This Leaf is equipped with a 22 kWh usable battery pack, delivering a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of approximately 86 miles – making it best suited for city driving and shorter commutes. It boasts an efficiency of 3.91 mi/kWh. For charging, it uses a Type 1 (J1772) port for AC and a CHAdeMO port for DC fast charging, both conveniently located at the front. Standard AC charging is via a 3.3 kW on-board unit (around 7 hours for full), with an optional 6.6 kW charger halving that. DC fast charging maxes out at 50 kW, getting you to 80% in about 30 minutes.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

In terms of safety, this iteration of the Leaf 24 kWh earned a respectable 4-star overall rating from NHTSA. Standard safety kit includes the essentials like a full suite of airbags and, crucially for 2018, a rearview camera which became mandatory in the US. However, don't expect a raft of advanced driver-assistance systems on this entry-level, outgoing model. Features like adaptive cruise control or blind-spot monitoring were generally reserved for higher trims or the newer generation Leaf, keeping this version focused on core safety and affordability.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

When new, Nissan covered the Leaf with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The critical battery warranty was typically 8 years/100,000 miles, protecting against significant capacity degradation. As a used vehicle, any remaining warranty would be a bonus. Maintenance is a key EV advantage, being minimal compared to combustion cars – no oil changes here! While early Leafs had some battery health concerns, especially in hot climates, the 24 kWh pack is generally considered fairly robust for its age if treated well.