Nissan Leaf 2018 UK first drive

The first-generation Nissan Leaf, launched back in 2010, will likely be remembered as a landmark machine in the development of electric cars. 

It might not grab the headlines as the likes of Tesla models do, but the Leaf was a game-changer: one of the first truly affordable and viable EVs. Eight years on, it is the best-selling electric car of all time.

Which makes this second-generation Leaf kind of a big deal: arguably the first second-generation mass-market EV, the all-important sequel to a critically acclaimed and hugely popular movie.

And it’s a sequel that arrives at an interesting time. Not only have a string of other electric hatchbacks shown themselves to be a match for the Leaf, just about every car firm you care to mention – from Ssangyong to Hyundai, Audi to Jaguar – are lining up to flood the market with battery electric cars, many of which promise to break new ground in terms of range and performance.

The pressure is on Nissan to respond, then. And expectations that this second-generation Leaf will be as ground-breaking as its predecessor are high. Perhaps unreasonably so.

Predictably, viewed through that somewhat uncharitable prism, the new Leaf could, like most Hollywood sequels, be considered a little disappointing. Sure, it’s bigger than before, and better – it has a WLTP driving range of 168 miles (up from 124), and a 148bhp motor (up from 107bhp) – but it’s all steady increment, rather than a mighty leap. 

It’s evolution, not revolution. Which, if you look at this new Leaf removed from any weight of unfair expectation, makes it arguably the most compelling option on the market right now for anyone considering an electric car.

We've already driven the Leaf abroad, but this is our first taste on the UK's rougher - and, during our test, snow-covered - roads.

Essentially, a refined and improved version of its predecessor. Thanks to the underfloor battery it has the same high driving position, and it’s easy, comfortable and confidence inspiring.

The electric drive is responsive and direct, yet never wild, and the steering is weighted, proportionate and a little quicker than before, without offering much feel or dynamism.

It is, as with many electric cars, all a little detached, and it’s not going to rival a combustion-engined alternative for sheer thrills on a flowing road. But, even with its improved range – made possible by a 40kWh battery replacing the 30kWh unit from the old car – it’s unlikely most would-be buyers will ask it to: most will spend their days as urban runarounds, an environment in which it will thrive.