The Nissan Leaf 2016 has just been unveiled Sept. 10 and while it make look the same outside, much of the changes were made inside in the form of a bigger battery option and an updated infotainment system.
According to GreenCarReports, the mid-level SV and range-topping SL will get a 30kWh which has an EPA-rated range of 107 miles. Both trim levels get a slight price increase at $35,050 and $37,640 (including the $850 delivery charge), respectively.
"The base Leaf S model will stick with the current 24-kWh pack, rated at 84 miles of range; its price remains unchanged at $28,060."
The bigger battery on the SV and SL reportedly has the same size and footprint as the smaller one but adds 46 pounds to the EV.
As CNET pointed out, the 30kWh pack would give the Leaf 2016 best-in-class range but if Chevy's Bolt EV can go 200 miles, it will have to forfeit its crown. On the other hand, the 24kWh pack on delivers range "which is in line with the class average of around 80 miles."
The 30kWh pack is rated at 112 MPGe combined, slightly lower than the 24kWh pack's 114 MPGe, per GCR.
While the Nissan Leaf 2016 uses newer cells with increased power density, it retains its 107 HP electric motor which makes 187 lb-ft of torque to drive the front wheels.
On the inside, Nissan's best-selling EV gets an upgraded infotainment system that's now "more user-friendly" than its predecessors.
According to The Verge, the base Leaf S comes with a 5-inch display with Bluetooth connectivity and audio streaming, hands-free text messaging and "NissanConnect."
On top of that, the Leaf SV and Leaf SL get a 7-inch multitouch display, voice recognition, navigation and SiriusXM satellite radio.
"These trims will also support even more apps, like Google search, Twitter and Trip Advisor."
Apart from new exterior colors and the upgrades mentioned above, Nissan didn't change much about the Leaf 2016.
The Nissan Leaf 2016 hits showrooms in October.
