Nissan LEAF Upgraded For 2023 With Simplified Trim Lineup

Nissan has brought the updated 2023 LEAF to New York, with subtle design tweaks and new powertrains. The electric hatch will arrive this summer, just before the Ariya SUV comes on sale.

The LEAF is now offered in just two trim levels, S and SV Plus. The S packs a 40-kWh battery and a 110-kW electric motor, producing 147 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. The range-topping SV Plus upgrades to a 60-kWh battery, as well as a 160-kW electric motor, racing output to 214 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. Range will be announced later on, but don't expect any major changes in that area.

If you're observant enough, you'll notice the 2023 LEAF's small styling adjustments, which will keep it fresh for the next few years. The darkened grille now features Nissan's new logo, and it is now illuminated. Additionally, the headlights have a black inner finisher for a more sinister look, and the front bumper has been slightly reshaped. In order to improve aerodynamics, the rear diffuser, rear spoiler, and all four tire deflectors have been readjusted.

The interior has also undergone some slight changes, including a light-up logo on the steering wheel and an all-new startup animation in the instrument panel. Interior accents in the LEAF S are finished in gray, while the SV Plus upgrades to black gloss. Black cloth seating is standard on both trims, but the SV Plus is offered with leather upholstery. The SV Plus trim also includes Nissan's ProPilot driver assistance technology as standard, featuring Intelligent Cruise Control, otherwise known as adaptive cruise control.

The 2023 LEAF is set for a summer release, and Nissan promises that pricing won't stray far from the 2022 model's value-oriented $27,400 starting price.

Would you buy the updated LEAF over a Tesla Model 3?

Images: Nissan