Nissan Leaf

Fuel economy, running costs and specs by model year

The Nissan Leaf appears in this database in 5 model years, from 2016 to 2020, offered with electric power. Combined economy ranges from 104 to 114 MPGe across those years, with annual fuel costs of $650 to $750 at 15,000 miles.

Fuel economy by year

How it compares

Against the average midsize cars in this dataset (about 32 MPGe), the Leaf sits roughly 77 MPGe above that mark on average, making it a relatively efficient choice for its class.

Five-year fuel cost

Fuelling a Leaf for five years at the EPA's 15,000-mile basis costs roughly $3,250 to $3,750, averaging about $3,500 across the versions here. That is the energy bill alone — it excludes insurance, maintenance and depreciation, which for most owners together exceed what goes into the tank.

The range within the range

Economy across the Leaf varies by about 10 MPGe between its most and least frugal versions, which run on electric. Engine size, turbocharging, drivetrain and even wheel size explain most of that gap, so when you shop a used Leaf check which version you are looking at before comparing its running cost to another car.

How it changed over time

Between 2016 and 2020 the Leaf's average combined economy slipped from about 113 to 108 MPGe. Redesigns, new engines and added hybrid or electric versions are usually what move the number, so the year you choose can matter as much as the model.

Best year for fuel economy

The 2016 Leaf has the strongest average combined economy in this database at about 113 MPGe, while the 2020 is the lowest at about 108 MPGe. If running cost is your priority, that is the year to target on the used market; later years may add equipment or safety features instead.

2020 Leaf at a glance

Use the comparison tool to set the Leaf against a rival, or go back to all Nissan models.