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2012 Nissan Leaf review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Nissan Leaf highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Battery range (EPA estimate)

73 miles

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.4 out of 5

30 customer reviews
The 2012 Nissan Leaf offers an efficient, quiet ride with low maintenance costs and no gas expenses, making it perfect for short commutes. Customers appreciate its tech features and handling, though opinions on design are split, and the limited range may deter long-distance drivers. Battery performance and styling draw mixed feedback.

RepairPal reliability rating

4
1
2
Excellent

RepairPal gave the Nissan Leaf an overall reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent. This rating ranks Nissan Leaf 1st out of 6 among Alternative Fuel Vehicles.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Nissan Leaf

Nissan Leaf features and specs

Curious how Nissan Leaf trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

SV 4D Hatchback 2WD

Standard Features

  • Heated Mirrors
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear Seat Heaters
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Traction Control
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • CD Audio
  • Navigation System
  • Satellite Radio Ready

Optional Features

  • Bluetooth Technology

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

0.0L

Engine type

Electric

Wheelbase

106.3"

Overall length

175"

Width

69.7"

Height

61"

Leg room

F 42.1"/R 31.1"

Head room

F 41.2"/R 37.3"

Front tires

P205/55R16

Rear tires

P205/55R16

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2012 Nissan Leaf FAQ

Nissan Leaf articles

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Should I Buy an EV Now or Wait Until the Tech Gets Better?

You know that feeling you get when you make a big purchase, like a smartphone or TV, and something better gets released a few months later? The same concept is a concern for prospective electric car buyers today. In this article, we discuss the factors to consider for those worried about a technological EV breakthrough around the corner.
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Spring 2025 CarMax Electric Vehicle Consumer Report

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Finding the Best Commuter Car for You

Choosing the best daily commuter car means balancing multiple needs. Do you want excellent fuel economy? Or is a comfortable environment for your daily drive? Maybe something small and maneuverable for those tight city parking spots is most important. The good news is that modern carmakers offer up a variety of commuter cars that let you have it all, and maybe even more than you expect.
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Driving an EV in Rural America: What You Should Know

Rural drivers have longer trips and less charging infrastructure, but these EV drivers say they’ve learned to embrace electric vehicles in a rural setting by considering range and planning their trips using apps. Here’s how they combat range anxiety and charging challenges.
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Cheapest Electric Cars: Used EVs Under $25,000

Driving an electric car isn’t just for the well off. If you’re shopping used, and keep a few things in mind, there are plenty of options out there for inexpensive electric vehicles. We take a look at seven used electric cars whose average price on CarMax.com is under $25,000…and two that are under $30,000.
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A Look at EV Charger Plug Types and Compatibility

Navigating charging infrastructure can be overwhelming. Beyond knowing where to find a charger (and how much it costs), owners also need to find an electric vehicle charger that is compatible with their vehicle. We break down the major charger types, from CCS to CHAdeMO to the plug formerly known as the Tesla charger.
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Electric Cars with the Longest Range

Electric cars, trucks and SUVs have more range than ever. But which electric vehicles have the most range and how is that range measured before a vehicle ends up on a lot? Check out this list to find out.
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Spring 2023 CarMax Electric Vehicle Consumer Report

Consumer interest in used electric vehicles continues to rise. In this article, we dig into CarMax data to see consumer behavior around electric vehicles - uncovering everything from popular used electric vehicles, average prices, common trade-ins, and more.
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How Much Does It Cost to Charge an Electric Car Compared to Pumping Gas?

Switching to an electric car can have a high upfront cost at first glance, but does charging an EV save you money compared to paying for gasoline? And if so, how much? Edmunds' expert Jake Sundstrom compares the cost of charging to the cost of gassing up.

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Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

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