2014 Nissan Leaf details

2014 Nissan Leaf

The 2014 Leaf is largely identical to the U.S.-built 2013 model, which incorporated several changes over its Japanese-assembled predecessors. The one major change is a rise in its EPA combined rating for electric range, which has risen to 84 miles from last year's 75 miles. This isn't due to any changes in the car, but to the elimination of an 80-percent battery charging mode which, under arcane EPA rules, reduced the range rating.

Upgrades for the 2014 model are not as extensive, but Nissan said the 2014 LEAF will feature "enhanced EV-IT functionality." Details are sparse, although Nissan announced that drivers will be able to speak destinations to the car, thanks to improved speech recognition. Drivers will also be able to listen to and dictate SMS text messages. It's not confirmed, but these features could be a result of a recently-announced integration of Apple’s iOS voice-recognition features in Nissan cars.

For 2014, LEAF is powered by an advanced lithium-ion battery composed of 48 compact modules and a high-response 80kW AC synchronous motor that generates 107 horsepower and 187 lb-ft of torque, providing a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience that is in keeping with what consumers have come to expect from traditional, gasoline-powered vehicles. Unlike internal-combustion engine-equipped vehicles, LEAF's powertrain has no tailpipe and thus no emission of CO2 or other greenhouse gases while being driven.

Inside, the Leaf features a digital "eyebrow" display at the top of the instrument panel that provides high visibility for the Eco indicator and speedometer, while a lower liquid crystal meter display houses the power meter, battery temperature gauge, multi-function display, remaining energy gauge, capacity level gauge and distance to empty display.

There is no shortage of features in the LEAF with standard equipment including full power accessories, automatic climate control, heated seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel. Nissan LEAF helps you stay connected with its 4.3-inch information display, Bluetooth, advanced trip computer with CD player and four-speaker sound system, satellite radio and a USB/iPod port and auxiliary audio jack. The upgraded SV offers Nissan Navigation System with 7-inch QVGA color monitor, NavTraffic and NavWeather, and partially recycled cloth seat trim.

All Leaf models come standard with dual front, front side and full-length side curtain airbags in addition to traction and stability control systems and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

All versions come with heated front and rear seats, and the SV and SL come with Nissan’s Navigation System to help you get around. The SL comes standard with fog lights and automatic on/off headlights, as well as a quick charge port which costs $1,630 to add to the SV version.

2014 Nissan Leaf details have just been unveiled. Pricing is almost the same as last year  starting at $28,980 ($21,480 after the federal tax credit, 18,980 after that and the California EV rebate, and $16,480 after the federal and Georgia tax credit) rather than $28,800. The $180 difference is due to inclusion of the Nissan RearView monitor.