The Nissan Leaf 2016 has been updated with longer range and an infotainment system but for a UK review of the electric vehicle, the changes are pretty much it.
For its 2016 update, the Leaf got a 30kwh battery in higher trim levels that gave it a 107-mile range in the US. That's 155 miles across the pond.
As the UK's AutoExpress pointed out, that puts Nissan's EV ahead of its rivals including the BMW i3, Kia Soul EV and Renault ZOE. The increased range also represents a 25 percent increase over the 24kWh variant but "[i]t's no more powerful and no less spacious" than that.
The British publication when on to say that despite the improvements, the Leaf 2016 "remains fairly average, with a bland driving experience and a slightly insipid cabin."
Still, it praised the EV for being "quiet and well mannered" and its low-speed performance inherent to its electric powertrain. The Leaf's updated infotainment system also got a thumbs up from AE.
EV-focused website Transport Evolved shared the same sentiments in its Nissan Leaf 2016 review. It speculated that the increased range from the 30kWh battery could bring in more buyers.
Reportedly, the Japanese automaker said the new Leaf has gotten more inquiries because of the bigger battery, "suggesting [it] may be a hit, even though the majority of drivers will rarely need that extra capacity."
The website also pointed out that the Leaf now comes with an 8 year / 100,000 mile warranty which it suspects is because the new battery pack is expected to have a longer life.
According to Green Car Reports, the Leaf 2016 is expected to arrive in US showrooms later this month. Only the higher trim levels, the SV ($35,090) and SL ($37,640), will get the 30kWh battery though.
The entry-level Leaf S reportedly keeps the 24kWh battery pack good for 84 miles of range with a starting price of $28,060.
A Nissan Leaf 2016 review for the US market should come out by then.
