White Lightning

The second-generation Nissan Leaf is out to electrify EV buyers with its sportier looks, improved interior and longer range.

When the first-generation Nissan Leaf first broke cover, its otherworldly looks immediately polarised opinions.

Its bulbous shape ensured that it looked like no other car on the road. Some found it cute. But many did not find it appealing.

The previous Leaf arrived in Singapore in 2012 as part of a test bedding programme. Torque drove it and found it to be a pleasant, albeit quirky car.

Although zippy, the older Leaf has a very limited range. It was rated for 150km, but under local driving conditions, we could only safely eke out 100-110km.

The latest Leaf, however, is claimed to have more than twice the range (311km). Its more conventional design is also more attractive than before.

We subject this electric hatchback to a comprehensive review by three Torque regulars: writer Wong Kai Yi, along with core contributors Tony Tan and Shreejit Changaroth. Keen driver Kai Yi will put the Leaf’s performance and handling to the test, while Tony analyses the car’s practical attributes.

Shreejit, on the other hand, will put on his engineer’s hard hat before checking out the Leaf’s technical specifics.

The Performance Factor

Every time I drive the Nissan Leaf, I kid you not, I run straight into a massive traffic jam.

It’s not your gardenvariety jam but a bumperto-bumper tailback.

That’s probably because Nissan’s Ubi showroom is in the middle of a busy industrial estate, not to mention sandwiched between entrances to the KPE and PIE.

It was a sign, then, for me to try out the e-Pedal that Nissan advertises as a standout feature on the Leaf.

The e-Pedal’s premise is simple but highly effective: you can start, accelerate, decelerate and brake simply by depressing or lifting offthe accelerator.