108 MPG combined might sound like science fiction for anything other than a motorcycle, but that’s exactly what the 2019 Nissan LEAF with the larger 62 kW-hr battery pack delivers. This isn’t some hybrid trickery either; this is a full electric vehicle (EV) converting kilowatt-hours into miles in a manner that embarrasses even the most frugal gasoline-powered subcompact.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the LEAF’s efficiency even further, revealing a stellar 118 MPG in the city and a still-impressive 97 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the LEAF’s ideal operating environment. City driving, with its frequent stops and starts, allows the LEAF to capitalize on its regenerative braking system. This system captures energy during deceleration and feeds it back into the battery, boosting efficiency and extending range where a gasoline car would waste energy. Highway driving, while not quite as efficient, still represents a significant improvement over conventional vehicles. The LEAF is best at speeds below 70 mph, but range does diminish as sustained high-speed cruising becomes more prevalent.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Nissan LEAF at $700 per year. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles annually and using the national average electricity cost per kilowatt-hour at the time of evaluation. While electricity prices fluctuate regionally, and individual driving habits vary, this $700 figure provides a baseline for comparing the LEAF’s running costs against those of gasoline-powered cars. Owners who charge their LEAF during off-peak hours, when electricity rates are typically lower, could potentially save even more money.

Real-world expectations

Electric vehicles, including the LEAF, often perform slightly differently in real-world conditions compared to their EPA ratings. Factors like ambient temperature, driving style, and terrain all affect the actual range and efficiency. Expect the LEAF’s range to decrease in cold weather, as battery performance is affected by low temperatures. Aggressive acceleration and high-speed driving will also reduce efficiency. Conversely, gentle driving and mild climates can result in figures that meet, or even exceed, the EPA’s estimates. It is important to learn to drive in a way that maximizes your driving range.

How it compares

Compared to other EVs in its class at the time, the 2019 LEAF (62 kW-hr) is a good middle-ground choice for efficiency. The Hyundai Kona Electric achieves a combined 120 MPG, while the Chevrolet Bolt manages 119 MPG. The base LEAF with the smaller capacity battery pack only achieves 112 MPG. These figures are important considerations for buyers prioritizing maximum efficiency and range, but the LEAF offers Nissan’s established reputation for reliability and a generally more comfortable ride. For shoppers open to plug-in hybrids, the Toyota Prius Prime boasts a combined 133 MPGe, but only offers around 25 miles of electric-only range before switching to gasoline power.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the easiest ways to improve the LEAF’s efficiency is to use the “e-Pedal” driving mode. This system allows for single-pedal driving in many situations, as lifting off the accelerator engages strong regenerative braking. Mastering the e-Pedal not only improves efficiency but also makes driving in stop-and-go traffic much smoother.

Pre-conditioning the cabin temperature while the LEAF is still plugged in can significantly extend the driving range, particularly in cold weather. Heating or cooling the cabin draws a considerable amount of energy from the battery, so pre-conditioning using grid power conserves battery life for actual driving.

Careful tire maintenance also helps. Keep your tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce efficiency. Choose low rolling resistance tires when it’s time for replacement to further enhance fuel economy.

Plan your routes strategically to minimize highway driving, especially if range is a concern. Opting for routes with lower speed limits and fewer hills will drastically improve the LEAF’s efficiency. and learn where public chargers are located to add a few electrons on longer trips.

You can view all Nissan fuel economy data on our website, along with information about LEAF MPG across all years. The 2019 LEAF with the 62 kW-hr battery is bought by realists who understand its limitations but deeply value its ability to deliver guilt-free, affordable transportation, even if that means occasionally planning their day around charging opportunities.