It’s usually uncommon that you encounter a vehicle changing so radically in appearance from one version to the next. But such is the case with the 2018 Nissan Leaf, which has transformed from a rounded electro-pod to a smart and somewhat athletic-looking hatchback. But how did it get there? And does the new design make it vanish into the sea of other electrical vehicles in the market?
Unlike the previous Leaf, which resembled none of Nissan’s other products, the 2018 model has recognizable features. One of the most known attribute to note is the V-Motion grille that has spread throughout majority of the Nissan lineup. Inside this grille, the Leaf features a unique 3D mesh pattern with blue accents. The new Leaf drops its bug eyes for more conventional headlights. The charging attachment is not sandwiched between the headlights but now above them, looking like part of the hood. Like the old model, the 2018 Leaf eschews the recent style of squared-off edges around the front fascia and keeps its rounded hood.
The 2018 Leaf looks less cartoonish now that its bulging haunches have been reduced. Looking at the Leaf’s side profile, you’ll notice the solid character line that once ran all the way across the side of the vehicle has softened. The new Leaf gets subtler, different character lines that give it a more windswept appearance. It also feature the floating roof design of other Nissan vehicles like the Rogue and the Maxima.
On the inside, a new instrument cluster with a 7-inch TFT display fits in front of the driver. No longer does this area feature two semi-circle displays stacked on top of each other. And in replace of a slab that juts out in the center console, the new Leaf presents its touchscreen, buttons, and air vents in a layered manner. There is also more depth to the dashboard. A new flat-bottom steering wheel adds athletic flair, as does the blue stitching throughout the cockpit. What do you think about this version of the Leaf? Drop your comments.
